Lin-Manuel Miranda Reveals How “Moana” ‘Saved’ His Life During a High Pressure Time in His Career (Exclusive)

**Lin-Manuel Miranda Reflects on the Life-Changing Impact of Moana as Live-Action Adaptation Premieres**

Lin-Manuel Miranda has shared insights into his life and career during a recent screening for the live-action adaptation of Disney’s *Moana* held in New York on July 9, 2026. In an exclusive conversation with PEOPLE, the acclaimed songwriter and actor revealed how contributing to the animated film’s music played a significant role in keeping him grounded while simultaneously starring in the phenomenal Broadway show, *Hamilton*.

At the height of his success with *Hamilton*, Miranda found solace through his work on *Moana*. He recalls that writing the soundtrack for the animated feature not only supported his creativity but also “saved” his life during a tumultuous period. Miranda had started composing the songs for *Moana* before *Hamilton* officially premiered on Broadway in 2015, completing much of the writing process in the cramped confines of his dressing room at the Richard Rogers Theatre.

Miranda explained the connection between the two projects, stating, “It’s not an accident those came so close together. I wrote most of *Moana* in my dressing room, and I think *Moana* saved my life.” He expressed that the demand for his songwriting kept his focus sharp and helped manage the pressures that fame can bring. “At a time when the world was putting a lot of attention on all of us, I stayed grounded because I had songs due for *Moana*. I had to figure out how to get her beyond the reef,” he stated.

The original 2016 animated film featured memorable songs, such as “How Far I’ll Go,” which garnered critical acclaim and won various awards. While Miranda was not involved in the follow-up project, *Moana 2*, he confirmed that the film was originally conceived as a television series before being transformed into a movie. Therefore, when it came to creating the sequel, newer songwriting talents Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear were already on board.

However, the opportunity to return for the live-action adaptation arose, and Miranda was thrilled to reconnect with the project. “The moment they hired director Thomas Kail, I was back on,” he mentioned. Kail, who directed Miranda in *Hamilton*, recognised the unique opportunity of having both Moana characters represented in the film, which sparked the idea for a new song.

The song, titled “Along the Way”, features the voices of the new Moana, played by Catherine Laga’aia, alongside Auli’i Cravalho, the original voice of Moana, and Dwayne Johnson, who voices Maui. Miranda elaborated, “There are two people in the world who know what it feels like to play Moana, and one can give advice and pass the torch to the other. I was like, ‘Well, that’s the song.’”

Looking ahead, Miranda humourously remarked on the potential of a third film in the *Moana* franchise. Dwayne Johnson has confirmed that *Moana 3* is already in production. “I say go make 10 Moana movies. I want *Moana 3* to be called *Tokyo Drift*. I want *Moana: Hobbs and Shaw*. Bring it on,” he jested, indicating his enthusiasm for further exploring the beloved character’s journey.

As the live-action adaptation of *Moana* hits theatres, Miranda’s reflections on his journey with the franchise highlight not only the importance of creativity in times of personal turmoil but also the enriching connections that can be formed across generations of talent. His return to the beloved character of Moana, alongside a mix of new and familiar voices, promises to attract audiences once again, showcasing the timelessness of the story.

Fans of *Moana* can now enjoy the new live-action film, allowing them to relive the magic while embracing the fresh interpretations of Miranda’s cherished songs. With this development, both Miranda and his audiences eagerly anticipate where Moana’s adventures will lead in the cinematic future.