How Dwayne Johnson’s Grandfather Inspired His Moana Portrayal – And Why It Still Moves Him Today!

Dwayne Johnson, best known for his role as the demigod Maui in Disney’s 2016 animated film Moana and its upcoming sequel, Moana 2, recently opened up about the profound personal connection he feels to the character. In an emotional interview on Good Morning America (GMA) on November 25, 2024, Johnson shared how his late grandfather, High Chief Peter Maivia, inspired his portrayal of Maui, bringing an authentic and deeply personal layer to his performance.

A Familial Legacy in Maui’s Character

Johnson’s connection to the character of Maui goes far beyond the professional. His grandfather, Peter Maivia, was not only a renowned professional wrestler but also a respected Samoan high chief, known for his commanding presence, charisma, and imposing build. These qualities, Johnson revealed, were integral to Maui’s character design, making the role feel especially meaningful. During the interview, Johnson tearfully recounted his memories of his grandfather, who passed away in 1982. “My grandfather, he died here, in Hawaii. And he died in 1982,” Johnson said, his voice thick with emotion as he reflected on being just 10 years old at the time.

For Johnson, portraying Maui is not just an acting role but a tribute to his grandfather. “Maui is just like my grandfather, from his build to his hair to his charisma,” Johnson explained. “And he would sing, and he was loved.” This connection gave the role a special resonance, enabling Johnson to bring an authenticity to Maui’s character that goes beyond the script.

Emotional Reflections and Vulnerability

The interview also allowed Johnson to explore his emotions and vulnerability in a way that resonated with fans and the media alike. He explained how playing Maui felt like “being in the skin of my grandfather,” sharing how reconnecting with his grandparents’ graves in Hawaii has become a way for him to center himself amidst the chaos of life. “Life is so wildly hectic and unpredictable,” he wrote in a 2019 social media post reflecting on his time with his grandparents’ graves, “But it’s amazing how slowing down to sit and talk with the spirits of your loved ones can recalibrate your soul.” This emotional connection between Johnson and his family adds a powerful layer to his portrayal of Maui, further deepening the character’s impact on audiences.

Beyond his personal reflections, Johnson also used the interview as an opportunity to speak to broader societal issues. He discussed the importance of vulnerability, especially for men, noting how societal norms often dictate that men must be tough and stoic. “I think it’s important to show that vulnerability and to show that emotion, and to show that it’s okay to cry,” Johnson stated, offering an insightful perspective on the importance of emotional openness.

Media Reaction and Public Impact

The emotional moment was widely covered by the media, with outlets like People and Screen Rant capturing Johnson’s emotional response as he spoke about his grandfather’s influence. These outlets highlighted how Maivia’s physical traits, including his Samoan tattoos and distinct appearance, were incorporated into Maui’s design, further underscoring the connection between the two. This coverage continued to generate attention, especially as Moana 2 is poised for release in 2024, allowing Johnson’s personal story to add even more depth to the character.

Johnson had previously alluded to his grandfather’s influence on Maui in earlier interviews, such as in October 2017, when he tweeted that Maui was partly inspired by High Chief Peter Maivia. This long-standing acknowledgment was reiterated during the GMA interview, which provided a deeper and more emotional perspective, particularly in the context of Moana 2.

A Shift in Focus: Personal Reflections vs. Family Connections

While Johnson has spoken about his role in Moana in various interviews, the November 2024 appearance on GMA stood out for its emotional depth. In a prior interview in November 2024, Johnson discussed the importance of Moana to his daughters, emphasizing the significance of seeing themselves in the character of Moana, especially as girls of color. This focus on family connection contrasted with the more personal, reflective nature of the GMA discussion, highlighting a shift in his approach to discussing his work on the franchise.

For Johnson, Moana is not just a professional milestone but a journey of emotional connection, honoring his heritage, and a tribute to his beloved grandfather. As Moana 2 approaches its release, fans will undoubtedly feel the weight of this legacy in Johnson’s portrayal of Maui, making the character even more meaningful.