Auli’i Cravalho Discusses Moana’s Journey and How Voicing the Character Has Changed Her Life

Auli’i Cravalho was just 14 years old and a total unknown when she responded to an open casting call for an unknown character named Moana. At the time, Disney explained that they wanted an actor who was “brave, inquisitive, and confident.”

Eventually, Cravalho got the role. Audiences around the world subsequently fell in love with Moana, and Cravalho was eventually nominated for an Academy Award for her performance of “How Far I’ll Go.” Suddenly, Cravalho was a star.

Photo: Billboard

Now, over ten years after getting the role that would change her life, the actress is reprising her iconic role in Moana 2, which hits theaters today.

Setting Sail For ‘Moana 2’

Speaking with Disney about her triumphant return, Cravalho admitted that she is excited to share the next chapter of Mona’s story with the world.

“Moana has so much more story to tell, so I’m really grateful we get to have our sequel,” she explained.

Photo: Disney

“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.”

Moana Has Inspired Fans Around the World

Since the first Moana film debuted in 2016, the young Wayfinder has inspired fans worldwide.

“I myself have seen so many young girls and young boys find themselves through this character,” Cravalho explained. “As much as Moana has grown, I’ve grown just as much.”

Photo: Disney

So, what is the secret to Moana’s success?

“Disney creates magic,” Cravalho says. “That’s truly how I feel.”

Disney Magic

That Disney magic has extended beyond movie theaters and into theme parks and toy stores.

Photo: American Girl

“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.”

Photo: Disney

Moana 2 is in theaters today.