Disney fans are boycotting the new Lilo & Stitch live-action movie.
The upcoming release of Disney’s live-action Lilo & Stitch remake has stirred considerable controversy, prompting many longtime fans to call for a boycott due to a significant change in a beloved character’s portrayal.
Set to premiere on May 23, nearly 23 years after the original animated classic debuted, the remake has already encountered fierce backlash for omitting one of the most iconic elements from the 2002 film.
Even casual observers voiced disapproval. One wrote: “Every aspect of this new Lilo and Stitch movie looks like utter garbage so it really shouldn’t be hard to boycott. I WILL be judging very hard if you decide to see it in theaters.”
In another comment, a fan added: “Oh hell no. Boycott Lilo and Stitch 2025.”
In the original movie, the alien characters Jumba and Pleakley come to Earth in search of Stitch, a genetically engineered alien who escapes to Hawaii.
While trying to blend in with humans, Pleakley famously dons a dress and wig, leading to numerous humorous moments.
This aspect of Pleakley’s character became a fan favorite, both for its comedic value and its subversive gender-bending presentation.
However, fans were quick to notice that in the trailer for the live-action version, Pleakley is not seen in his traditional disguise.
Director Dean Fleischer Camp addressed the issue directly in a TikTok video, responding to a fan’s inquiry with: “I have had people message me saying, ‘Why is Pleakley not wearing the dress?’ And I just want to say, I tried.”
He emphasized his efforts to preserve the original character’s look by sharing early concept art showing Pleakley in women’s clothing and a red wig.
Yet, Disney ultimately chose not to include that element in the final version.
As Camp further explained to Entertainment Weekly: “The humor of them walking around Hawaii dressed in these terrible disguises where Pleakley still has one eyeball, it’s a little harder to buy in live action.”
Instead of physical disguises, the live-action version has Jumba and Pleakley using a device to appear human, removing the need for costumes altogether.
While the change may have been a practical decision for a more realistic portrayal, many fans interpret it as Disney caving to political pressure.
One user speculated: “Baby, when he said he tried, he means Disney said no… Given the political climate, it’s not shocking Disney wanted no part.”
Social media has since erupted.
On social media and elsewhere, users have expressed outrage. One fan posted: “GIVE ME PLEAKLEY IN A DRESS OR CANCEL THE MOVIE.”
Another commented: “It’s crystal clear catering to the fascist and anti-trans rhetoric plaguing the world right now. F**k Disney.”
Despite the backlash, the remake boasts an impressive cast, including Maia Kealoha as Lilo, Sydney Elizebeth Agudong as Nani, and Chris Sanders reprising his role as the voice of Stitch.
However, for many fans, the removal of Pleakley’s cross-dressing element has undermined the spirit of the original.
As one disappointed viewer summed it up: “I’m going to skip this one in theaters… I fear the soul of this movie has been lost.”
@marceltheshellwshoeson #disney #liloandstitch #animation ♬ original sound – Marcel the Shell
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