‘Tis the time of sequels, and Disney is leading the charge, while also converting its classic animations to more life-like entities. From The Lion King to Frozen, there has been a steady increase in the number of projects that have seen a second or even third installment on the silver screen, for better or worse. The seafaring adventures of Moana might just be the next entry on the list, however, Disney has so far discussed it in hushed tones. And some of the beloved stars may or may not return to Moana 2.
Though Dwayne Johnson remains one of the most bankable stars in Hollywood, his shine has been getting feeble in the last couple of years following several box office bombs. Despite playing the important role of Maui, there has been no confirmation from Disney whether he will return to his role in Moana’s sequel. Will Moana be the same without The Rock or Maui?
Dwayne Johnson’s Potential Setback: Moana 2 Talks in Progress, But Disney Yet to Confirm
In terms of action-packed blockbusters, Dwayne Johnson is certainly among the biggest names in Hollywood. With a number of lucrative films under his belt, he appeared to be an unstoppable force. However, recent rumors surrounding his possibility of starring in the Moana sequel have left fans wondering if Disney is still optimistic about his absolute stardom.
According to Deadline, The Rock, 51, is merely in talks to star in Moana 2, which has not been formally confirmed. Disney announced earlier this week that it will be releasing an animated follow-up to the critically acclaimed 2016 flick in theaters later this year. And, Johnson is not yet confirmed to reprise his role as the demigod Maui in Moana 2.
In other words, Disney might be considering hiring a different star to play Maui. Or perhaps a different God, given the abundance of Hawaiian deities available to choose from.
Also, Auliʻi Cravalho, who voiced the film’s title character, is reportedly in talks to return, albeit at a slower pace. Disney CEO Bob Iger did not clarify the status of the movie’s leads, even though it was widely believed that both would be reprising their roles. But as official word from Disney has not yet been received, fans are waiting impatiently for casting news.
What More Do We Know About Moana 2?
On February 7, Disney CEO Bob Iger confirmed the release date along with revealing fascinating new information about Moana 2 (via Deadline). In a press release, he stated,
“Moana remains an incredibly popular franchise, and we can’t wait to give you more of Moana and Maui.”
Variety claimed that a sequel to Moana was first conceived as a television series, but Iger was so intrigued by the footage that it was eventually turned into a feature film. Dave Derrick Jr., a longtime Disney veteran, will direct this new film. How about the trailer? Disney released a 16-second teaser trailer on February 7, 2024, showing Moana making her way back to the ocean. Also, the Moana sequel will open in theaters on November 27, 2024.
The Best Dwayne Johnson Movie, According to Fans – Fast and Furious isn’t Even in Top 3, Moana is #7
While the lack of official confirmation from Disney about Dwayne Johnson’s involvement in the upcoming film may be disheartening, it is important not to jump to conclusions. Only time will tell if Disney believes in the absolute star power of The Rock. Regardless of the outcome, it’s clear that his fanbase will definitely continue to back him in his future endeavors, whether they involve Moana 2 or not.
Moana is streaming on Disney+.
