The Full Lilo & Stitch Live-Action Cast Revealed: Who’s Playing Lilo, Nani, And David In The 2025 Remake?
The highly anticipated live-action adaptation of Disney's beloved 2002 animated classic, Lilo & Stitch, has finally unveiled its full cast, bringing a wave of excitement—and a few surprises—to fans worldwide. As of today, December 22, 2025, the casting choices demonstrate a clear commitment to authenticity, featuring a talented lineup of Native Hawaiian actors to bring the Pelekai family and their friends to life.
With the film scheduled for a major theatrical debut, this deep dive provides the most current and complete look at the stars stepping into these iconic roles, from the young actress playing Lilo to the returning voice of Experiment 626 himself.
The Main Cast: Full Biography and Profile List
The core of the Lilo & Stitch story rests on the Pelekai sisters and the community that surrounds them. Disney has made a significant move by casting actors with deep roots in Hawaiʻi for the lead human roles, ensuring the film’s crucial cultural elements are honored.
- Lilo Pelekai: Maia Kealoha
- Profile: Maia Kealoha is a rising American child actress from Hawaiʻi.
- Key Detail: This role marks her major feature film debut, a significant launch for the young star. She was approximately 7 years old when filming began, perfectly capturing the age and spirit of the orphaned hula-loving girl.
- Cultural Connection: Kealoha is a proud Hawaiian who has been noted for her hula dancing, a central element to Lilo’s character.
- Nani Pelekai: Sydney Agudong
- Profile: Sydney Elizebeth Agudong is an American actress, singer, and songwriter.
- Key Detail: Born and raised on the island of Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻi, Agudong brings an authentic island perspective to Lilo’s protective older sister. She is known for her roles in TV series and her musical talents.
- Cultural Connection: Her background growing up in Kauaʻi provides a natural connection to the film's setting and the themes of ʻohana (family).
- David Kawena: Kaipo Dudoit
- Profile: Kaipo Dudoit is a Native Hawaiian actor, model, musician, and hula dancer.
- Key Detail: Dudoit, who hails from the island of Oʻahu, is stepping into the role of Nani's kind-hearted, surfing boyfriend, David. His previous work includes roles in projects filmed in Hawaiʻi, such as Magnum P.I.
- Cultural Connection: As an accomplished hula dancer, Dudoit embodies the authentic Hawaiian charm and athleticism required for the character.
- Stitch (Voice): Chris Sanders
- Profile: Chris Sanders is an American voice actor, animator, and filmmaker.
- Key Detail: Fans rejoiced at the news that Sanders, who co-wrote and co-directed the original 2002 film, will reprise his iconic role as the voice of Experiment 626, ensuring the mischievous alien's signature sound remains intact.
The Intergalactic and Government Officials: Surprising Casting Choices
The live-action remake wouldn't be complete without the eccentric alien duo, Jumba and Pleakley, and the imposing social worker, Cobra Bubbles. The casting for these roles features a mix of veteran talent and unexpected comedic stars, hinting at the film's blend of heart and humor.
Zach Galifianakis as Dr. Jumba Jookiba
The casting of comedian and actor Zach Galifianakis as the "evil genius" Dr. Jumba Jookiba initially raised eyebrows but promises a fresh, comedic take on the character. Known for his roles in The Hangover franchise and Baskets, Galifianakis is expected to bring his unique brand of deadpan humor to the creator of Stitch (Experiment 626). This casting choice suggests the live-action film will lean into the hilarious odd-couple dynamic between Jumba and his partner, Pleakley.
Billy Magnussen as Pleakley
Joining Galifianakis is Billy Magnussen as the one-eyed, cross-dressing alien agent, Pleakley. Magnussen, who has appeared in projects like Aladdin (2019) and No Time to Die, is known for his versatility and comedic timing. The dynamic between Magnussen and Galifianakis will be crucial in translating the animated characters' chemistry to the live-action format, particularly since the film is rumored to offer a slightly different visual approach to the non-human characters, according to early production reports.
Courtney B. Vance as Cobra Bubbles
The role of Cobra Bubbles, the imposing former CIA agent turned social worker, will be played by the critically acclaimed actor Courtney B. Vance. Vance is an Emmy and Tony Award winner, known for his powerful performances in series like The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story. His casting lends a gravitas to the character, who serves as a key figure in the Pelekai family’s life, evaluating Nani's ability to care for Lilo. The intensity Vance brings is perfect for the character's mysterious and authoritative presence.
Behind the Scenes: The Creative Team and Production Details
A successful live-action adaptation hinges on the vision of its creative team. Disney has assembled a strong group of filmmakers to steer the project, focusing on cultural sensitivity and modern storytelling.
Director and Writers
The film is directed by Dean Fleischer Camp, who gained widespread acclaim for the Oscar-nominated stop-motion film Marcel the Shell with Shoes On. His background suggests a focus on heartfelt storytelling, which is essential to the theme of ʻohana. The screenplay was penned by Chris Kekaniokalani Bright, with a story credit also going to Mike Van Waes and original co-director Chris Sanders, ensuring a blend of new perspectives and respect for the source material.
Producers and Studio
The film is produced by Jonathan Eirich and Dan Lin, who previously worked on the successful live-action Aladdin (2019). Tom Peitzman and Ryan Halprin serve as executive producers. This production team, under Walt Disney Pictures, has experience handling high-profile remakes, adding confidence to the project's scale and execution.
The film's production took place in Hawaiʻi, a crucial detail that further solidifies the commitment to the story's setting and culture. The inclusion of local Hawaiian actors and crew members was a priority for the filmmakers, aiming for a respectful and authentic representation of the islands and its people.
The Verdict: A New Era for Lilo & Stitch
The live-action Lilo & Stitch is set to be a major cinematic event, not just for Disney fans, but for audiences eager to see a culturally authentic representation of Hawaiʻi on the big screen. The casting of Maia Kealoha, Sydney Agudong, and Kaipo Dudoit, all with strong ties to the islands, has been widely praised as a step toward genuine representation in Hollywood.
With Chris Sanders returning as the voice of Stitch, and the comedic talents of Zach Galifianakis and Billy Magnussen rounding out the alien crew, the film promises to deliver the same mix of tears, laughter, and high-stakes chaos that made the original a classic. Mark your calendars: the Hawaiian rollercoaster ride officially crashes into theaters on Friday, May 23, 2025.
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