Dwayne Johnson Is Wearing A Tattoo Bodysuit For Live-Action "Moana"

Dwayne Johnson, famously known for his larger-than-life physique and infectious charisma, has admitted to using a bodysuit to portray the demigod Maui in Disney's live-action adaptation of Moana. Despite being a physical powerhouse, even Johnson needed a little cinematic magic to embody the character’s mythical build and intricate tattoos.

During a recent interview with Extra, Johnson candidly addressed the rumors sparked by leaked on-set photos showing him in Maui’s iconic look. When asked if he bulked up for the role, he laughed and credited the bodysuit for his impressive appearance, saying, “That’s a suit that took a long time to put on. I’m so happy you said, ‘You bulked up,’ because that means you couldn’t tell.”

A Suit to Match Maui’s Magnitude

The bodysuit, which Johnson revealed requires hours of preparation each day, not only amplifies his already formidable frame but also replicates Maui’s signature tattoos that span his chest, arms, and back. The use of this suit has sparked conversations online, with some fans initially debating its authenticity when the leaked photos emerged.

Johnson also shared the lengths the production team went to in order to maintain privacy while shooting, saying, “We shot outside, and when those pictures surfaced, I was like, ‘Shit, we got caught.’” Despite efforts to block paparazzi with walls, photographers resorted to boats to snag the first look at Maui’s live-action transformation.

The Journey to Live-Action Moana

This adaptation of Moana, announced by Disney earlier this year, stars newcomer Catherine Laga’aia as Moana and revisits the beloved story with a fresh, real-world lens. While the live-action film won’t hit theaters until summer 2026, anticipation is building as fans speculate how it will bring to life the lush landscapes, magical ocean scenes, and beloved characters from the animated classic.

In the meantime, Disney fans can enjoy Moana 2, the animated sequel to the 2016 original, which is already smashing records at the box office. The film, released this weekend, has earned Disney Animation’s largest preview night earnings ever with $13.8 million and is aiming for a $175 million launch weekend breaking Thanksgiving record.

Whether donning a bodysuit or not, Johnson’s passion for storytelling and his connection to the character of Maui remain undeniable. His playful acknowledgment of the leaked photos only adds to the excitement surrounding Moana’s live-action debut, leaving fans eagerly awaiting its arrival in 2026.

Visit Dan Lalonde Films For All Technology And Entertainment News

Source: Variety

Photo Credit: Disney