American actor and professional wrestler, Dwayne Johnson, also known as “The Rock,” has opened up about the extraordinary preparation behind his role as Maui in Disney’s live-action adaptation of Moana.
To embody the larger-than-life demigod, Johnson relied on a custom-designed muscle bodysuit that replicated Maui’s massive physique.
The transformation was not only a testament to the creativity of the production team but also a daily commitment, involving hours of preparation to achieve the character’s signature look.
Despite tight security measures on set, behind-the-scenes photos leaked, revealing glimpses of Johnson’s transformation. He humorously remarked on the challenges of keeping the process under wraps, noting that determined paparazzi even used boats to capture unauthorized images.
Johnson expressed a deep emotional connection to Maui, a role deeply rooted in his Samoan heritage and inspired in part by his late grandfather, High Chief Peter Maivia. Taking on Maui in live-action form gave Johnson a new perspective on the character, offering a more tangible experience than voicing him in the animated film.
The live-action Moana is set to release in July 2026, promising a fresh take on the beloved story. Meanwhile, fans can revisit the animated adventure with the recently released Moana 2.
