Dwayne Johnson’s Emotional Tribute to His Late Grandfather in Moana

In a touching revelation at CinemaCon 2026, Dwayne Johnson, the beloved actor, opened up about the personal significance of his role as Maui in the upcoming live-action adaptation of Moana.

Johnson's portrayal of the iconic demigod is deeply rooted in the memory of his late grandfather, High Chief Peter Malavia. He reminisced about their close bond, recalling how his grandfather's charismatic personality and love for singing left an indelible mark on him.

"The character of Maui is a tribute to my grandfather's spirit," Johnson shared. "His strength, humor, and musical talent were the inspiration behind Maui's vibrant personality."

The actor further explained that playing Maui allowed him to reconnect with cherished memories of his grandfather. "Every time Maui sings, I feel my grandfather's presence. It's a way for me to honor his memory and keep his spirit alive," he added.

Johnson's emotional connection to the role is evident in his social media posts, where he shared a picture of his grandfather, describing him as a "towering figure" in his life.

The highly anticipated Moana, backed by Walt Disney Studios, is set to release on July 10, 2026, in multiple languages, including English, Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu. This film promises to be a heartwarming journey, not only for Johnson but for audiences worldwide, as it brings to life a story deeply rooted in family and cultural heritage.