Catherine Laga’aia is a rising star in the entertainment industry who gained international recognition after being cast as Moana in Disney’s live-action adaptation of the acclaimed animated film. With her talent and Pacific Islander heritage, she’s making waves in Hollywood and inspiring young girls worldwide.
Biography Table
| Full Name | Catherine Laga’aia |
|---|---|
| Profession | Movie Actress, Entertainer, Artist, Performer |
| Age | 18 (as of 2025) |
| Date of Birth | December 17, 2006 |
| Birthplace | Sydney, Australia |
| Zodiac Sign | Sagittarius |
| Nationality | Australian |
| Ethnicity | Samoan-Australian |
| Religion | Not Publicly Disclosed |
| Net Worth | Estimated $500,000 (2025) |
Early Life & Background
Catherine Laga’aia was born on December 17, 2006, in Sydney, Australia. She grew up in a family deeply connected to the entertainment industry, as her father, Jay Laga’aia, hosted the popular Australian children’s television show Play School. This early exposure to the world of entertainment likely influenced her career path from a young age. Being one of eight siblings, Catherine developed her performing skills within a large, supportive family environment.
Career Journey
Catherine’s breakthrough came when Disney announced her casting as Moana in the highly anticipated live-action adaptation of the animated film. Prior to this major role, she had been developing her skills as an actress and performer in Australia. In 2023, she appeared in the Amazon Prime series The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart, where she played the role of young Candy. Her performances in episodes three (“Lantern Bush”), five (“Desert Oak”), and seven (“Sturt’s Desert Pea”) demonstrated her acting abilities and helped establish her presence in the industry.
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Personal Life
Catherine comes from a large family with strong Samoan roots. Her father, Jay Laga’aia, is a well-known actor and television presenter in Australia, while her mother is Sandra Jane Laga’aia. As one of eight siblings, family appears to play an important role in Catherine’s life. Given her young age, details about her dating life or relationships remain private, as she focuses on her developing career and education.
Net Worth & Financial Success
As of 2025, Catherine Laga’aia’s estimated net worth is approximately $500,000. This figure reflects her relatively new but promising career in the entertainment industry. Her casting as Moana in Disney’s live-action film represents a significant financial milestone, as Disney productions typically offer substantial compensation for lead roles. As her career progresses, her net worth is expected to grow considerably.
Physical Appearance
While specific details about Catherine’s height are not publicly documented, she possesses the physical presence and charisma necessary for her roles. Her appearance reflects her Samoan heritage, which was particularly important for her casting as Moana, a character representing Pacific Islander culture.
Notable Facts & Trivia
After her Moana casting announcement, Catherine expressed feeling honored to have the opportunity to celebrate Samoa and all Pacific Island peoples. She specifically mentioned being proud “to represent young girls who look like me,” highlighting her commitment to cultural representation in mainstream media. The original animated character of Moana was voiced by Auli’i Cravalho, another actress of Pacific Islander descent.
Cultural Impact
Catherine’s casting as Moana represents an important step in Hollywood’s efforts toward authentic representation. By selecting an actress with Samoan heritage to portray a Polynesian character, Disney has demonstrated commitment to cultural authenticity in their productions. Catherine embraces this responsibility and understands the significance of her role as a cultural ambassador.
Social Media Presence
Catherine maintains a growing presence on social media platforms, where she connects with fans and shares glimpses of her professional journey. As her profile rises with the release of the live-action Moana, her following is expected to expand significantly.
FAQ
Q: Who is Catherine Laga’aia?
A: Catherine Laga’aia is an Australian actress who was cast as Moana in Disney’s live-action adaptation and also appeared in The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart.
Q: Is Catherine Laga’aia related to Jay Laga’aia?
A: Yes, Jay Laga’aia is Catherine’s father. He is known for hosting the Australian children’s show Play School.
Q: What is Catherine Laga’aia’s ethnicity?
A: Catherine Laga’aia is of Samoan-Australian heritage.
Q: What other roles has Catherine Laga’aia played?
A: Before Moana, Catherine played young Candy in the 2023 Amazon Prime series The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart.
Q: How old is Catherine Laga’aia?
A: As of 2025, Catherine Laga’aia is 18 years old, having been born on December 17, 2006.