Why Fans Are Upset About Lilo & Stitch Live-Action Changes

In May 2025, Disney released its much-anticipated live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch, directed by Dean Fleischer Camp. While the film has enjoyed enormous commercial success—grossing over $341.7 million globally during its opening weekend according to Business Insider—it hasn’t been without controversy. Longtime fans of the original 2002 animated classic have taken to social media and entertainment forums to express their dissatisfaction with certain Lilo & Stitch live-action changes, particularly those affecting character identity and thematic integrity.

The Legacy of the Original Film

The original Lilo & Stitch remains one of Disney’s most beloved modern classics. Set in Hawaii, the film tells the story of a young girl named Lilo who adopts what she believes is a dog, but is actually a genetic experiment from outer space named Stitch. Beyond its heartwarming plot and quirky humor, Lilo & Stitch became known for its powerful message about family—ohana—and for embracing the misfits of the world.

One standout character was Agent Pleakley, an alien who often disguised himself in traditionally feminine attire while trying to blend in on Earth. While this was played largely for laughs, it also added a subversive and progressive dimension to the film. Pleakley’s character was unique—lighthearted, gender-nonconforming, and oddly charming. He became a fan favorite not just for comic relief, but for his inadvertent challenge to conventional gender norms.

For fans who want to celebrate the iconic character Stitch, check out this exclusive Stitch graphic T-shirt—a fun and stylish way to share your love for one of Disney's most unforgettable aliens.

What Changed in the Live-Action Version?

In the 2025 remake, however, many fans were dismayed to find that Lilo & Stitch live-action changes included the removal of Pleakley’s cross-dressing element altogether. According to Cinemablend, director Dean Fleischer Camp admitted that although the creative team had considered retaining this detail, it was ultimately cut for what he described as “narrative clarity” and “budget priorities”—with most of the resources reportedly going into CGI for Stitch.

But for many fans, this explanation didn’t go far enough.

The Fan Backlash

The reaction to these Lilo & Stitch live-action changes was swift and, in some circles, intense. Hashtags like #JusticeForPleakley began trending on platforms such as Twitter and TikTok. Users expressed disappointment that Disney chose to “sanitize” a character that once stood out for being bold and refreshingly different.

A piece published on Pride.com noted that many LGBTQ+ viewers had long viewed Pleakley as an icon—albeit an accidental one—for gender fluidity. Removing this aspect of his character was seen as a missed opportunity to reinforce inclusive representation in family entertainment.

Fans also criticized other Lilo & Stitch live-action changes such as the simplification of certain scenes and character arcs. One especially controversial shift involves the character of Nani, Lilo’s older sister and legal guardian. In the remake, her storyline is adjusted so that she eventually gives up guardianship to pursue a personal career path—an alteration that has left many viewers uncomfortable, as it weakens the original story’s core theme of self-sacrificing family bonds.

Cultural and Industry Implications

This isn’t the first time Disney has received backlash over the adaptation of a beloved classic. The company’s long string of live-action remakes—from The Lion King to Mulan—has drawn mixed reactions, with many criticizing them for being overly cautious or too concerned with box office appeal over artistic depth.

But the Lilo & Stitch live-action changes strike a particularly sensitive chord. Unlike previous remakes, Lilo & Stitch is set in a specific cultural environment—Hawaiian—and contains themes of social services, sibling responsibility, and cultural marginalization. Altering too many of its nuances risks diluting its emotional impact.

According to Time Magazine, these changes reflect a broader industry challenge: how to modernize content without erasing what made it meaningful in the first place.

Disney’s Response and Moving Forward

As of now, Disney has not issued a formal statement in response to the backlash over Lilo & Stitch live-action changes. However, during interviews, members of the production team have acknowledged the difficulty of honoring the original while trying to appeal to new audiences.

Director Dean Fleischer Camp stated, “We tried to strike a balance, but it’s hard. You want to update the story in a meaningful way without compromising what people loved about the original.” Still, many feel the film fell short in maintaining the spirit of acceptance and diversity that made the original stand out.

Conclusion: A Lesson in Adaptation

The 2025 Lilo & Stitch remake has proven that even a box office hit can generate valid criticism. While Disney’s goals may have included making the story more accessible to a broader, modern audience, the cost of certain Lilo & Stitch live-action changes—particularly in representation—cannot be ignored.

As fans continue to voice their concerns, the hope is that future adaptations will learn from this response. In an age where inclusivity and authenticity matter more than ever, storytelling decisions must reflect not just visual polish, but cultural sensitivity and thematic integrity. For now, the original 2002 film remains an essential touchstone for what it means to celebrate outsiders, cherish family, and boldly be oneself.