Moana 2 Main Cast and Character Roles
The animated sequel features a returning ensemble cast led by Auli'i Cravalho as Moana and Dwayne Johnson as Maui. Cravalho reprises her role as the Polynesian wayfinder navigating new oceanic challenges, while Johnson voices the demigod Maui with his signature humor and bravado. The film expands the original story by introducing new voyages beyond Motunui, adding depth to both returning and new characters. Forbes provides a detailed breakdown of the returning and new cast members.
Disney Animation Studios produced the sequel under the Walt Disney Pictures banner, with leadership from chief creative officer Jared Bush and co-directors Jason Hand and Dana Ledoux Miller. The studio confirmed casting decisions through official announcements tied to the film's production timeline. The project builds on the original 2016 film's box office success, which grossed over $643 million worldwide. SEC filings from Disney include updates on major studio productions and financial performance.
New Characters and Supporting Voice Cast
The sequel introduces new characters central to the expanded voyage narrative, including Moana's grandmother Tala, voiced by Rachel House, who appears in key spiritual and guiding scenes. Other new supporting roles include a mysterious ocean spirit and additional villagers from Motunui, each designed to deepen the world-building established in the first film. Forbes covers the new character lineup and their narrative function.
Supporting voice actors include Temuera Morrison as Moana's father Chief Tui and Nicole Scherzinger as her mother Sina, both returning from the original cast. The ensemble features a mix of established Hollywood performers and Polynesian actors, reinforcing the film's cultural authenticity and representation goals. Character designs reflect updated animation techniques, with detailed tattoos on Maui and dynamic ocean effects that support the new story beats.
Production Details and Release Context
Disney Animation Studios developed Moana 2 with a focus on expanding the Polynesian mythology and oceanic adventure themes from the first film. The production team integrated traditional Polynesian navigation methods and cultural consultants into character arcs and visual storytelling. The sequel's narrative structure follows Moana as she leads a new crew across unknown waters, testing her leadership and connection to the ocean.
Disney released the film as a theatrical animated feature, positioning it within the studio's broader slate of live-action and animated projects. The movie's marketing campaign highlighted the return of Cravalho and Johnson alongside the introduction of new characters and expanded world-building elements. Forbes tracks casting announcements and character reveals throughout production. Disney's SEC filings reference the project as part of its content pipeline and financial outlook