First Look: Set Photos Reveal Maia Kealoha as Lilo in Live-Action ‘Lilo & Stitch’ Remake

Trevor Decker

Published

February 18, 2024

NOTE: This article is 2 months old and may not include the most recent information.

Disney’s live-action remake of the beloved animated film “Lilo & Stitch” is currently in production in Hawaii. Recent behind-the-scenes photos have given fans their first exciting glimpse at the film’s development, including a look at newcomer Maia Kealoha portraying the iconic role of Lilo.

Kealoha, a young Native Hawaiian actress, is making her major Hollywood debut in this live-action adaptation. Set photos shared on TikTok by @paulinapullara show the rising star interacting with a prop pink convertible car that appears to be a pivotal part of the movie. Her casting as the young Hawaiian girl at the heart of this beloved story represents Disney’s dedicated efforts toward authentic cultural representation and storytelling.

@paulinapullara
La mas emocionada con las grabaciones de #liloandstitch 2 ???? #liloystich #oahuhawaii #luckywelivehawaii
♬ Ukulele’s tropical and light Hawaiian(1390223) – ishinuki

Joining Kealoha are several notable cast members breathing new life into familiar roles. Sydney Agudong stars as Nani, Lilo’s older sister, with Kaipo Dudoit as David Kawena, Tia Carrere as Mrs. Kekoa, Courtney B. Vance as Cobra Bubbles, and Amy Hill as the wise grandmother Tūtū. Original “Lilo & Stitch” director Chris Sanders is also on board, reprising his voice role as the troublemaking alien Stitch. Rounding out the voice cast are Zach Galifianakis as Jumba Jookiba, Billy Magnussen as Pleakley, and a special guest appearance by Jason Scott Lee, who voiced David in “Lilo & Stitch 2.”

The script is co-written by Chris Sanders and Native Hawaiian screenwriter Chris Kekaniokalani Bright, aiming to retell the heartwarming story of an unlikely friendship between a young girl and a mischievous alien while ensuring cultural authenticity. Under the direction of Dean Fleischer Camp, this live-action reimagining joins the ever-expanding “Lilo & Stitch” universe alongside sequels, TV shows, video games, and more.

As production continues in Hawaii, anticipation builds for Maia Kealoha’s star-making performance, breathing new life into the kindhearted yet feisty Lilo. The shared set photos offer an early look at her take on the beloved character. The live-action “Lilo & Stitch” promises to introduce this modern Disney classic to a new generation while honoring its beloved roots.