Disney’s Lilo & Stitch Live-Action Hits $1B Amid Ending Backlash

Disney's 2025 live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch has become a major box office success, grossing over $1 billion globally and setting records as the highest-grossing live-action/animated hybrid film. The film, starring Maia Kealoha as Lilo and Sydney Agudong as Nani, features a significant narrative change in its ending: unlike the original 2002 animated movie where Nani keeps custody of Lilo, the remake depicts Nani leaving Lilo in the care of their neighbor Tūtū while she pursues college in California. This ending sparked controversy among fans who felt it contradicted the film's core "Ohana" message about family unity. Sydney Agudong has defended the change in multiple interviews, explaining that it reflects a more modern and realistic portrayal of family dynamics, emphasizing that Nani deserves a life of her own beyond caregiving. She highlighted that the message of "Ohana" remains intact, as family can be chosen and still provide support regardless of blood relations. Bonus material and exclusive clips from the home release offer insights from original and remake creators on what makes the characters special and the enduring appeal of the story.