Catherine Laga'aia on Her Famous Father and Landing the Lead in Live-Action 'Moana'

Catherine Laga'aia is speaking candidly about her path to stardom and the role her father has played in her career trajectory.

The 19-year-old takes on the titular role in the live-action adaptation of 'Moana,' which hits theaters on July 10. In a recent conversation with People, Laga'aia addressed questions about her family connections in the entertainment world with refreshing candor.

"I inherited nepotism, that's for sure. I'll take that anytime," she quipped, referencing her father's established career in Hollywood.

Her dad, Jay Laga'aia, is a 62-year-old actor best known for his role as Captain Typho in 'Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones' and 'Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith.'

Beyond the joke, Laga'aia spoke thoughtfully about what it means to carry her family's legacy forward. She explained that having her father in the industry motivated her to honor both the original animated film and its devoted fanbase. Most importantly, she wanted to earn his respect.

"He knows what's good, he knows what he likes. I'm someone on his side. That's the part of my family that I'm representing," she shared.

She went on to describe her creative process as being guided by a simple question: "What would my dad do?" But ultimately, she said, her goal is to ensure that he's proud of the legacy she's building.

In the live-action remake, Laga'aia's character answers the ocean's call and sets out on a voyage beyond her island home of Motunui. Alongside her is Dwayne Johnson, who returns as the demigod Maui. The film follows Moana's journey to restore prosperity to her people through an unforgettable adventure.

The success of the live-action adaptation comes as reports indicate a third animated 'Moana' film is currently in development.