In Moana and now Moana 2 (review here), Auli’i Cravalho voices Moana. This is a role that Disney began casting for over a decade ago. They were looking for an actor who was “brave, inquisitive, and confident,” and who also had a strong singing voice. 14 year old Auli’i Cravalho was the Hawaiian native who at the time was unknown and ended up with this role.
Fast forward about a decade and Auli’i Cravalho has voiced Moana in the movie and multiple other projects through the years. Now her voice is once again heard in the sequel to the original film.
“I am so grateful that Moana has connected with so many people — and yes, we are still streaming quite well on Disney+!” Cravalho says with laugh. It was the most streamed movie in 2023 on Disney’s streaming service. “Moana has so much more story to tell, so I’m really grateful we get to have our sequel. If our first film was focused on connecting with our past, this film is focused on connecting with our future — and I’m so glad that audiences also connect with that. Moana is so brave, and such a beautiful character… She has so much more learning and so much more growing to do in this film.”
Cravalho describes Moana as “loyal,” “resilient,” and “tenacious” — qualities she hopes inspire audiences. “I hope other people also see those same traits in themselves,” she says.
What’s the secret to connecting with audiences on a global scale?
“Disney creates magic,” Cravalho says. “That’s truly how I feel.”
“I myself have seen so many young girls and young boys find themselves through this character,” Cravalho continues. “As much as Moana has grown, I’ve grown just as much.”
Over the years, The Walt Disney Company has continued to deepen fans’ relationships with Moana — something that will continue as Moana 2 sails into theaters around the world. “Disney magic can be felt everywhere, from our films to our music to our merchandise,” Cravalho says. “I love that my little cousins get to hold a Moana doll, press her necklace, and out comes my voice — a crazy experience, by the way! It just opens up the world of Moana to so many people and allows that storytelling to reach an even broader audience.”
