Is the Disney Lilo & Stitch Live-action remake happening?

‘Lilo & Stitch’ Live action remake is set to release this year on Disney+.

Disney’s beloved animated classic, "Lilo & Stitch," is getting a live-action/CG hybrid remake. Initially the news of the remake came out in October 2018, but the project faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic the SAG-AFTRA strike.

Production eventually wrapped earlier this year, with the film slated for release on Disney+ in 2024 as reported by the Hollywood Reporter.

Mike Van Waes wrote the initial screenplay, later revised by Chris Kekaniokalani Bright. Dean Fleischer Camp directed the film after Jon M. Chu had to step down due to other commitments.

The casting of Sydney Elizebeth Agudong as Nani stirred accusations of colorism, as fans felt her skin tone was lighter than the animated character's. Kahiau Machado was initially cast as David Kawena but was replaced by Kaipot Dudoit after controversial social media posts surfaced.

The film features Maia Kealoha as Lilo, Chris Sanders reprising his role as the voice of Stitch, and Tia Carrere, who voiced Nani in the original film, now playing a new character named Mrs. Kekoa. Other notable cast members include Zach Galifianakis as Dr. Jumba Jookiba, Billy Magnussen as Agent Pleakley, and Courtney B. Vance as Cobra Bubbles.

The live-action remake will closely follow the original 2002 storyline, focusing on the bond between Lilo, a lonely human girl, and Stitch, a genetically engineered alien. 

While an official release date is yet to be announced, The Hollywood Reporter indicates that the film is expected to debut on Disney+ in 2024. Fans are eagerly awaiting potential announcements and previews at Disney’s D23 Ultimate Fan Event.