Disney's Moana star Auliʻi Cravalho praised for decision not to return for live-action remake

Auli'i Cravalho has been praised after revealing that she won’t appear in the live-action remake of Moana.

The actor played the Polynesian princess back in 2018, with The House of Mouse deciding that the film need a reboot only five years later.

Whilst some Disney fans have despaired, others have welcomed Cravalho’s decision and even called it ‘respectful’.

The 22-year-old made the announcement last week on her Instagram, telling fans she was ‘honoured to pass this baton’ to the next actor.

“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,” said the Disney star, adding: “I believe it is absolutely vital that casting accurately represents the characters and stories we want to tell.”

Though Cravalho is Native Hawaiian, she also has Chinese, Irish, Portuguese and Puerto Rican heritage and is lighter-skinned than her on-screen character.

It's this which has caused the actor to step away from the role, however, Cravalho did announce that she would be assisting with casting as an executive producer.

“I cannot wait to help find the next actress to portray Moana’s courageous spirit, undeniable wit and emotional strength,” she told fans excitedly in the short clip.

Continuing, she said: “I’m 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 help inspire her story, and I look forward to the beautiful Pacific representation to come.”

Disney

Whilst fans may have been disappointed that the Moana star will be missing from the live-action remake, others have praised her decision.

“Much respect to you Auli’i,” wrote one fan, “With the issue of colourism in the Lilo and Stitch remake, while it would be interesting to see the same actress portray the character in a live-action remake. I appreciate that you want this version of the role to go to someone who could reflect Moana authentically.”

Another added: “Youre magnificent and incredible for doing this for another actor to get the chance to be Moana and have it be part of their career journey.”

A third commented: “I’m so proud and excited to see what you’ll do for this film!!!”

Whilst Cravalho won’t be returning for the remake, Dwayne Johnson has just announced he will be starring in the upcoming film.

We can’t wait to see how far he and the new cast will go!