Catherine Laga‘aia
Awards & Honours
1
Awards Won
1
Honours
5
Records
Catherine Laga‘aia's ascent in acting has been swift and impressive, beginning with her breakout role in Prime Video's The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart in 2023. She made history as the youngest lead in a major Disney live-action musical at just 17, selected through a global search for the 2026 Moana remake opposite Dwayne Johnson. This milestone not only highlights her talent but also her ability to stand out in competitive casting processes. Her recognition as Rising Star at CinemaCon 2026 further cements her status, showcasing her transition to big-screen leads. With upcoming projects like Crashout and GoAnimate, she's building a diverse portfolio that spans thrillers and animations. Fans and industry insiders admire how she balances emerging fame with cultural representation, inspiring young actors worldwide through her early achievements and record-breaking feats.
Awards
Honours & Distinctions
NIDA Graduation Diploma
Received as part of the graduating cohort, recognized as a rising star for her lead role in Disney's live-action Moana
Records & Feats
Youngest Lead Actress in a Major Disney Live-Action Musical Adaptation
Cast at age 17 as Moana in Disney's live-action adaptation after a worldwide search, marking her as the youngest to lead such a project.
First Major Film Role via Global Casting Search for Disney's Moana Live-Action
Selected from a worldwide talent search to play the titular Moana opposite Dwayne Johnson as Maui, with promotional trailers released in 2025 and 2026.
Rising Star Recognition at CinemaCon 2026
Honored as Rising Star of 2026 at the world's largest cinema convention for her transition from TV to blockbuster leads.
Multi-Project Pipeline Post-Moana Debut
Secured lead roles in Moana (2026), Crashout (TBA, Australian thriller as Riley), and GoAnimate (2027 as Krystal Claires), expanding her career post-debut.
Screen Acting Debut in International TV Series
Debuted in three episodes of Prime Video's The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart as Young Candy, her first professional acting role before Moana casting.