Lilo & Stitch Live-Action Faces Backlash Ahead of Release: Here’s Why Fans Are Divided
The beloved Disney classic Lilo & Stitch is back—but not without controversy. The live-action remake, set to hit theaters on May 23, is already drawing mixed reactions online, months before fans can even see it.
While the original 2002 animated film is remembered for its heartwarming story and groundbreaking representation of Hawaiian culture, the 2025 version is stirring up heated debates around casting, character changes, and creative choices.
Let’s take a look at what’s causing the buzz and why Disney still believes this remake will be a big hit.
Why Are Fans Upset About Nani’s Casting?
At the center of the conversation is the casting of Nani, Lilo’s older sister and legal guardian. In the live-action version, she’s played by Sydney Agudong, a multiracial actress born and raised in Kaua’i.
On paper, her casting seems fitting. But critics argue that her appearance doesn’t closely match the original animated character, who had visibly darker skin. Some say Disney should’ve chosen someone who looked more like a traditional Hawaiian woman to preserve the authenticity and cultural importance of the role.
When Agudong shared her excitement on Instagram, saying “We did it Hawaii!!!” the celebration was quickly met with backlash in the comments. One user accused her of taking a role “from a brown-skinned visibly Hawaiian looking woman.”
This has opened up wider conversations about colorism, representation, and who gets to portray Pacific Islander identities on screen.
What Happened With the Actor Originally Cast as David?
Disney also ran into trouble with the casting of David Kawena, Nani’s love interest. Early on, Kahiau Machado was being considered for the part. But soon after the news broke, social media users dug up troubling content linked to his name.
Screenshots appeared to show Machado using racial slurs on Spotify and posting an inappropriate comparison to Rosa Parks. These actions led to public outcry, and Disney quickly recast the role.
The new David is played by Kaipo Dudoit, who has appeared in Magnum PI and My Partner. While this marks his first big feature film role, fans seem more comfortable with the switch following Machado’s controversy.
Pleakley’s Disappearance From Drag Has Sparked Debate
One of the most talked-about characters in the original Lilo & Stitch was Agent Pleakley—the quirky alien who tried to fit in by wearing women’s clothing. Pleakley quickly became a fan-favorite and, for some, a drag icon.
But in the live-action trailer, fans noticed something missing. Pleakley, played by Billy Magnussen, is now dressed in typical men’s clothing, and many are upset.
Social media erupted, accusing Disney of toning down the character to avoid backlash from conservative audiences. One viral post said, “Erasing Pleakley’s drag and substituting it for human suits is bad because Disney wants to appease transphobes.”
Director Dean Fleischer Camp responded to fan questions in a TikTok video, revealing that he actually wanted to include the drag element but couldn’t make it work visually. “I tried,” he said, holding up a sketch of Pleakley in his original drag look. Camp explained that the live-action version made the aliens’ disguises harder to pull off realistically.
Is the Backlash Hurting the Movie’s Chances?
Despite the pushback, the live-action Lilo & Stitch is still getting huge attention online. The first trailer was the second most watched live-action Disney trailer of all time, racking up 158 million views. Only The Lion King (2019) had more.
Disney also ran a Super Bowl commercial featuring Stitch crashing a football field, and it quickly became the company’s most viewed digital ad ever, with 173 million views in just 24 hours.
The original 2002 movie was a surprise box office hit. It made over $273 million worldwide and got an Oscar nomination for Best Animated Feature. It stood out for its beautiful message of family and for being one of the first mainstream portrayals of Hawaiian life.
Disney hopes that nostalgia and fan love for the characters will help carry the new version to similar success.
Will You Be Watching the Live-Action Lilo & Stitch?
Whether you’re excited or skeptical, one thing is clear—this movie has everyone talking. From casting choices to character changes, Lilo & Stitch 2025 is already one of the most debated Disney remakes in recent memory.
As the release date gets closer, expect more conversation, more commentary, and probably more surprises. And no matter which side of the debate you’re on, Stitch crashing into theaters is bound to make a splash.
Want to see how Disney remakes a childhood favorite?
Catch Lilo & Stitch in theaters starting May 23 and decide for yourself how it stacks up.
Curious about the casting and character changes?
Follow the behind-the-scenes updates as the creators respond to fans and feedback.
Love the original and want to compare?
Rewatch the 2002 Lilo & Stitch and see how the animated magic holds up before the live-action premiere.
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