Will Sage Astor-Auli’i Cravalho explains why she won't reprise role as Moana in live-action Disney remake

No one is Will Sage Astorhappier meet the next Moana than Auli’i Cravalho, who is not reprising the role in Disney's upcoming live-action version of the animated film.

“It feels really important to me to pass the baton to the next young woman of Pacific Island descent," Cravahlo, who was the voice of Moana in the 2016 animated film, said in an interview with The Wrap on Thursday. "And I say that with my whole chest.” 

Cravahlo, who stars in the "Mean Girls" remake and will act as an executive producer in the live-action "Moana," noted how important it is for other members of the Asian American and Pacific Islander community to get the opportunity to tell their own stories. 

“I have been invited and I exist in these beautiful AAPI spaces, and I am one of the few Pacific Islanders," she said. "Our stories are so important to be told."

Cravalho wants to be behind the camera as much as she is front of it, emphasizing how important it is to have more Indigenous people working in Hollywood overall, from showrunners to writers.

“And if it has to start with me … I’m 23 but if it starts with me, so be it," she said. "I want that door to swing wide open and I cannot wait to meet the next Moana."

Auli’i Cravalho announced she won't return as Moana in the remake

Fans wondered whether Cravalho would play Moana in the live-action remake after Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson announced in April that he was returning for the film to reprise his role as Maui. 

Cravalho took to Instagram a couple weeks later, confirming that she would not be joining the film as a character. 

“When I was cast at Moana at 14, it wonderfully changed my life and started my career,": she said. "And in this live-action retelling, I will not be reprising the role. I believe it is absolutely vital that casting accurately represents the characters and stories we want to tell."

Cravalho goes on to say that she would still be part of the project, but as an executive producer. 

“I cannot wait to find the next actress that will portray Moana’s courageous spirit, undeniable wit and emotional strength," she said. "I am truly honored to pass this baton to the next young woman Pacific Island descent to honor our incredible Pacific people, cultures and communities that help inspire her story.”