Dwayne Johnson, the well-known actor and producer, recently shared a heartfelt experience from a press event for his upcoming film, the live-action adaptation of Disney’s “Moana”. In this latest version, Johnson reprises his role as the beloved demigod Maui alongside Catherine Lagaʻaia, who stars as Moana. The film is set to hit UK cinemas on 10th July.
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During the event, Johnson encountered a group of young fans, many of whom were there as part of their wishes granted by the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The touching moments unfolded as he was attempting to leave the venue when he heard the distinctive voice of a child calling out, “Maui!” Unable to resist, he stopped to interact with them.
“I am a sucker for kids,” Johnson told PEOPLE in a recent interview. “If I hear anyone, especially a little kid voice—‘Maui!’—you know, I turn around.” This candid admission illustrates his genuine affection for his younger fans.
The encounter turned into a memorable 30-minute engagement where Johnson met with numerous children, many of whom were celebrating significant milestones in their health journeys. He recounted how these children were filled with joy, proudly announcing, “I rang the bell!”—a euphoric expression often used by young cancer patients when they complete their treatment. Johnson, taking a knee to meet them at eye level, shared in their excitement.
“It was a beautiful fan experience,” he reflected. It’s evident that these interactions with children resonate deeply with him, reinforcing the importance of his role as a figure of positivity and inspiration.
This is not the first time Johnson has collaborated with Make-A-Wish. His involvement with the charity has been long-standing, exemplifying a commitment to bringing joy to young fans facing significant health challenges. In November 2024, he participated in the premiere of “Moana 2” in Hawaii, where he greeted more children and their families, a moment he described on social media as an “honour” to “grant wishes”.
The enthusiastic response from young audiences speaks volumes about the impact he has as a role model. He often highlights the joy he derives from these interactions, which extend beyond mere celebrity encounters. These moments serve as a reminder of the power and responsibility that comes with his public persona.
The film itself, directed by Thomas Kail, is a reimagining of the critically acclaimed 2016 animated classic. Johnson’s return to the character of Maui brings a new dimension to the story, promising to engage both long-time fans of the original and newcomers alike. Alongside Lagaʻaia, the cast includes Rena Owen and Jemaine Clement, and Lin-Manuel Miranda has returned to compose the soundtrack.
As the release date approaches, excitement builds for a fresh take on the beloved tale of adventure and self-discovery. Johnson’s role in promoting positive interactions with fans through his film work adds an enriching layer to the cinematic experience that Disney seeks to provide.
For those eager to delve deeper into Johnson’s insights and his experiences with fans, the latest issue of PEOPLE features an extended interview, available now on newsstands.
In a world where celebrity can sometimes feel distant, Johnson’s approach demonstrates a refreshing connection to his audience. His willingness to engage with young fans and support meaningful causes like Make-A-Wish reinforces the idea that behind the Hollywood persona lies a genuine commitment to making a difference. As the release of “Moana” draws near, fans can look forward to more of these heartwarming stories.