Ohana Means Family: Meet The Full Cast Of The Live-Action Lilo & Stitch (2025)

The long-awaited live-action adaptation of Disney’s beloved animated classic, Lilo & Stitch, has finalized its stellar cast, bringing the magic of Kaua‘i and the spirit of ‘Ohana to a new generation. As of late 2024, the film has completed principal photography and is deep into post-production, with a confirmed release date in 2025. This article provides the most current and comprehensive breakdown of the full cast, the creative team, and what fans can expect from this highly anticipated remake. The new ensemble cast blends fresh, authentic Hawaiian talent with established Hollywood stars, promising to honor the original film's cultural heart while introducing the story of Experiment 626 to a global audience.

The original 2002 film, which introduced the world to the unique bond between a young Hawaiian girl and a destructive alien, remains a cultural touchstone. The live-action remake, directed by Dean Fleischer Camp, is set to explore the themes of family, acceptance, and finding your place in the world with a fresh visual style. The casting choices, particularly the focus on local and Polynesian actors, reflect a commitment to the authenticity of the Hawaiian setting and its people.

The Complete Lilo & Stitch Live-Action Cast List and Character Biographies

The production team has carefully selected a diverse and talented group of actors to step into the shoes of the iconic characters from the United Galactic Federation and the Pelekai family. The list below is the definitive cast for the 2025 theatrical release, which was largely confirmed throughout 2024.

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• Lilo Pelekai: Maia Kealoha
• Stitch (Voice): Chris Sanders
• Nani Pelekai: Sydney Agudong
• Jumba Jookiba: Zach Galifianakis
• Agent Pleakley: Billy Magnussen
• David Kawena: Kaipo Dudoit
• Cobra Bubbles: Courtney B. Vance
• Grand Councilwoman: Hannah Waddingham
• Tūtū: Amy Hill
• Mrs. Kekoa: Tia Carrere (Reprising a new role)

Maia Kealoha as Lilo Pelekai: The Heart of ‘Ohana

The most crucial casting decision was for the role of Lilo Pelekai, the spirited and eccentric young girl living in Kaua‘i. Newcomer Maia Kealoha, a young actress from Hawai‘i, was chosen to bring the title character to life. Her selection was celebrated for prioritizing a local actress to embody the role, ensuring cultural resonance and authenticity. Lilo's journey is central to the narrative, as she adopts what she believes is a dog, only to discover he is Experiment 626, the galaxy's most wanted alien. Kealoha's performance is expected to capture Lilo's unique blend of vulnerability, resilience, and unwavering belief in ‘Ohana.

Chris Sanders as the Voice of Stitch (Experiment 626)

A major win for fans was the announcement that Chris Sanders would be returning to voice Stitch. Sanders is the co-creator and original voice actor for the mischievous, genetically engineered alien, ensuring that Stitch's distinctive vocalizations and personality remain intact for the live-action experience. Stitch, or Experiment 626, is the catalyst for the entire story, crash-landing on Earth and learning the true meaning of family through his bond with Lilo. Retaining Sanders provides a vital link between the animated classic and the new adaptation.

Sydney Agudong as Nani Pelekai: The Dedicated Older Sister

Hawaiian actress Sydney Agudong steps into the challenging role of Nani Pelekai, Lilo’s older sister and guardian. Nani is a central figure, struggling to raise Lilo while facing immense pressure from social services, personified by Cobra Bubbles. Agudong, known for her work on *On My Block*, is another key piece of authentic Hawaiian casting. Her portrayal will focus on the complex dynamics of sisterhood and the immense responsibility of keeping their ‘Ohana together in the face of both earthly and galactic threats.

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The Galactic Trio and Key Supporting Roles

The comedic heart and sci-fi elements of the film are carried by the three agents sent to Earth to retrieve Stitch. These roles are filled by a trio of established, comedic actors, promising a fresh take on the alien characters Jumba, Pleakley, and the Grand Councilwoman.

Zach Galifianakis as Dr. Jumba Jookiba

Comedian Zach Galifianakis takes on the role of Dr. Jumba Jookiba, the self-proclaimed "evil genius" who created Experiment 626. Jumba is a massive, four-eyed alien scientist, and Galifianakis is expected to bring his unique brand of deadpan humor to the character, contrasting with the more straight-laced Pleakley. His character is tasked with capturing his creation, leading to much of the film's chaos and comedy.

Billy Magnussen as Agent Pleakley

Joining Jumba is Agent Pleakley, a member of the United Galactic Federation and the reluctant partner in the hunt for Stitch. Billy Magnussen, known for his roles in *Aladdin* and *No Time to Die*, plays the one-eyed, slender alien. Pleakley's character is often the voice of reason and caution, providing a comedic foil to Jumba's reckless enthusiasm. The dynamic between Magnussen and Galifianakis is a highly anticipated element of the remake.

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Hannah Waddingham as the Grand Councilwoman

Emmy-winning actress Hannah Waddingham, famous for *Ted Lasso*, has been cast as the Grand Councilwoman, the authoritative leader of the Galactic Federation. Her character is responsible for ordering Jumba and Pleakley to retrieve Stitch and is a figure of immense galactic power. Waddingham’s commanding presence and vocal talents are a perfect fit for this imposing, yet occasionally exasperated, leader.

Authenticity and the Spirit of Hawai‘i

The production's commitment to cultural authenticity extends beyond the Pelekai sisters. The cast includes several actors with deep ties to the islands, reinforcing the film's foundational themes.

Kaipo Dudoit as David Kawena

Local Hawaiian actor Kaipo Dudoit portrays David Kawena, Nani’s supportive friend and romantic interest. David is an integral part of Nani and Lilo's support system, embodying the spirit of community and kindness in Kaua‘i. Dudoit’s casting further solidifies the film's dedication to a genuine Hawaiian representation.

Courtney B. Vance as Cobra Bubbles

Veteran actor Courtney B. Vance (known for *American Crime Story*) has been cast as Cobra Bubbles, the imposing social worker who monitors Nani’s ability to care for Lilo. In the original film, Cobra Bubbles is revealed to be a former CIA agent, adding a layer of intrigue to his character. Vance’s serious, dramatic background is expected to bring weight and complexity to this crucial supporting role.

Amy Hill and Tia Carrere

The cast also features two actresses with connections to the original film and Hawaiian culture. Amy Hill, a veteran actress with a long career, plays Tūtū, a new character created for the live-action film, likely serving as a wise community elder. Additionally, Tia Carrere, who voiced Nani in the original animated movie, returns in the new role of Mrs. Kekoa. This is a significant nod to the original film and ensures a continuation of its legacy.

Lilo & Stitch Live-Action: Production Status and Release Date

The Lilo & Stitch live-action remake, directed by Dean Fleischer Camp (known for *Marcel the Shell with Shoes On*), was primarily filmed on location in Hawai‘i. The decision to film in the actual setting of the story adds a layer of visual realism and respect for the environment of Kaua‘i. Production faced some delays but wrapped up successfully, moving the project into its extensive post-production phase, which involves integrating the CGI character of Stitch with the live-action footage.

The film is currently scheduled for a theatrical release on May 23, 2025. While initial speculation suggested it might be a Disney+ exclusive, the current plan is for a major cinematic debut, capitalizing on the traditionally profitable Memorial Day weekend slot in the United States. This decision underscores Disney's confidence in the film's potential to be a box office success and a significant cultural event, much like other recent live-action adaptations. Fans are eagerly awaiting the first official trailer, which is expected to showcase the final look of Stitch and the chemistry between the new cast members.