Production Begins for Lilo & Stitch Sequel in Hawaii
The upcoming live-action project reunites the main cast and introduces the character Angel.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Animation
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Production is underway in Hawaii for the live-action sequel Lilo & Stitch 2. The film features the return of stars Maia Kealoha and Sydney Elizabeth Agudong, alongside director and writer Chris Sanders.
Why it matters
The sequel builds on the commercial momentum of the 2025 live-action remake, which reached over $1 billion at the global box office. It seeks to further expand the popularity of a franchise that has already accumulated over 640 million streaming hours on Disney+.
The franchise has generated 640 million streaming hours on Disney+, while the 2025 live-action adaptation earned over $1 billion worldwide and a 92% Rotten Tomatoes score.
The players
Chris Sanders
He serves as the director, writer, and voice of Stitch for the sequel.
Maia Kealoha
She returns to portray the character Lilo in the film.
Sydney Elizabeth Agudong
She reprises her role as Nani for the upcoming production.
The details
Director Chris Sanders returns to guide this new independent story, which features the live-action debut of Experiment 624, known as Angel. Filming is currently taking place in Hawaii to capture the iconic setting for the franchise.
Timeline
2002: Original animated Lilo & Stitch movie released.
2005: Animated sequel Stitch has a Glitch released.
2025: Live-action adaptation of Lilo & Stitch released.
October 2026: Production of Lilo & Stitch 2 underway in Hawaii.
May 26, 2028: Theatrical release of Lilo & Stitch 2.
Industry Dynamics
This production follows the strategic push by major studios to expand successful live-action adaptations of beloved animated properties. It reflects a wider Hollywood trend of building out franchises that have already proven their viability in both streaming and theatrical markets.
Viewers can expect a theatrical release when the movie debuts in 2028. Future streaming access will likely follow on Disney+ consistent with the platform's release patterns for major studio sequels.
The takeaway
The return of the core creative team and cast suggests a focus on maintaining the aesthetic established by the 2025 hit. Audiences should look for further casting updates as production continues toward the 2028 release date.
What happens next
Lilo & Stitch 2 is scheduled for its theatrical release on May 26, 2028.
Further reading
For more on upcoming projects in this space, check out the Animation section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by ScreenRant.
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