Maui — Also Based on Dwayne Johnson
In Disney’s “Moana,” the character Maui, voiced by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, drew inspiration from the actor’s family heritage and his persona. While Maui’s roots initially traced back to Dwayne’s grandfather, the influence of “The Rock” was evident right from the beginning of the production process. An early design concept even envisioned Maui with a shaved head as a nod to Dwayne Johnson’s signature look.
Ultimately, the decision was made to give Maui thick, long hair, but Dwayne’s massive build and confident swagger remained intact in the character’s design and personality. A side-by-side comparison of Dwayne Johnson and Maui reveals their shared stance and presence, illustrating how the actor’s distinctive qualities left an indelible mark on the character, making him a memorable and iconic figure in “Moana.”
