Disney’s Moana star Auli’i Cravalho announces she won’t return for remake

Disney’s Moana is getting the live-action remake treatment, but lead actress Auli’i Cravalho won’t be reprising her titular role.

While it is not unusual for people her age – the star is 22 years old – to play teenagers, the plan is to go for someone younger.

Cravalho said she would still be involved with the remake, however, serving a different role.

In a video posted to her Instagram, she said: “When I was cast as Moana at 14, it wonderfully changed my life and started my career. In this live-action retelling, I will not be reprising the role.

Related: This dark Moana theory will change the way you view the Disney movie

“I believe it is absolutely vital that casting accurately represents the characters and stories we want to tell.”

She followed that up by stating: “I am truly honoured to pass this baton to the next young woman of Pacific Island descent to honour our incredible Pacific peoples, cultures, and communities that helped inspire her story, and I look forward to all the beautiful Pacific representation to come.

“As an executive producer on the film, I cannot wait to help find the next actress to portray Moana’s courageous spirit, undeniable wit, and emotional strength,” she added, revealing her continuing involvement in her new role.

Related: Disney+ set to remove Willow and multiple Marvel shows from streaming service

Dwayne Johnson, who announced plans for the remake last month, will also serve as an executive producer as part of his Seven Bucks production company. It also looks like he’ll be reprising his part as the ordinary demi-guy, Maui.

In other Disney live-action remake news, the updated Lilo & Stitch has found its lead child star, while The Aristocats re-do has signed on an Academy Award-winning director.

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Joe Anderton is a freelance news writer and resident Welsh person at Digital Spy, having worked there since 2016. 

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