Auli’i Cravalho: The Inspiring Journey of Moana
Auli’i Cravalho, renowned for her role as Moana, has captured the hearts of audiences not only with her performance but also with her remarkable personal story. As she promotes the upcoming Moana 2, which has already shattered Thanksgiving box office records, Cravalho opens up about her background and the challenges she faced before achieving stardom.
Humble Beginnings
Like many artists, Cravalho’s rise to fame didn’t come from a life of luxury. Growing up in a modest household, she recently disclosed that her family relied on food stamps during her early years. Reflecting on her upbringing, she shared with People magazine, “We lived in a one-bedroom apartment in Mililani when I was cast. I slept in the bedroom, my mom slept on the couch. She gave me everything.” This statement encapsulates her deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by her mother, Puanani.
Family Support and Grounded Values
Even after the divorce of her parents, Cravalho received unwavering support from both sides as she navigated her path to fame. Her gratitude for their contributions is evident: “Your parents give you so much. Kids feel a little indebted, I’m going to be honest! But we feel so grateful for our parents’ sacrifices.” With the glitz of Hollywood calling, her parents instilled the importance of humility and hard work. As she recalled, they urged her to stay focused on her education: “If [Moana] doesn’t go anywhere, you need to finish high school. You need to do the dishes. You need to fix your bed. Don’t let it get to your head.”
Career Breakthrough
‘Moana’ undoubtedly soared, earning approximately $687 million worldwide and cementing itself as a beloved Disney classic. This success gave Cravalho multiple opportunities; she has since starred in notable projects like The Power and the stage adaptation of Mean Girls. Interestingly, her journey to the role of Moana was somewhat serendipitous. Initially hesitant to audition due to the competitive field, Cravalho entered a local charity video contest with friends. A talent agent recognized her potential, leading to her surprising last-minute audition. She ultimately made a lasting impression and landed the role.
A Heartfelt Gesture
Continuing her family’s legacy of support, Cravalho made headlines when she purchased a home for her mother with her earnings from the Moana franchise. “I bought my mommy a house. She’s happily retired,” she happily shared with People.
Looking Ahead
With her career trajectory on the rise, Cravalho is now set to produce the live-action adaptation of Moana, featuring Dwayne Johnson as Maui and newcomer Catherine Laga’aia as Moana. As she embarks on this exciting venture, the future looks bright, and her story continues to inspire many.
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