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Seven-year-old Maia Kealoha, the native Hawaiian actress portraying Lilo in Disney's upcoming live-action "Lilo & Stitch," recently made her red carpet debut at the Gold Gala, an event celebrating Asian, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander excellence.
Kealoha, the youngest attendee and presenter at the gala, honoured Maui wildfire first responders alongside fellow Disney star Auli’i Cravalho ("Moana") and Krystal Ka’ai, the Executive Director of the White House Initiative on AANHPIs.
In an interview with PEOPLE, Kealoha shared her elation upon learning she had been cast as Lilo, describing how she "couldn't even believe it" and excitedly told her dad, "I did it! I'm Lilo! I'm Lilo."
Comparing herself to Lilo, Kealoha noted their shared love for grass and crafting, while acknowledging a difference in their room decor – Lilo's room is full of toys, while Kealoha's isn't. She also expressed her fondness for Lilo's pineapple bathing suit.
Kealoha, whose hula background helped her secure the role, showcased her modern dance moves at the gala's afterparty, being the first to hit the dance floor.
The young actress wore a custom creation by Hawaiian designer and Project Runway alum Kini Zamora for the event.
Fans can catch Kealoha's performance as Lilo when the live-action "Lilo & Stitch," also starring Zach Galifianakis, Sydney Elizabeth Agudong, and Kahiau Machado, premieres on Disney+.
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