It’s a big week for Disney fans as the live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch (2025) lands in theaters on May 23—and memories of Stitch’s most infamous Disney World prank are bubbling right back to the surface. Back in 2004, Stitch didn’t just arrive in Tomorrowland—he “took over” Cinderella Castle, draping the spires in toilet paper, spray-painting faux graffiti reading “Stitch Is King,” and replacing royal fanfares with mischievous giggles and cartoon burps. That bold, one-day stunt—tied to the debut of Stitch’s Great Escape!—became one of the most talked-about moments in park history, a wild wink at guests that felt perfectly in character for everyone’s favorite blue alien.
This time around, Disney hasn’t announced any castle makeover to mark Stitch’s return, but nostalgia is running high. Fans are scouring social media, dusting off snapshots of that prank-filled day, and speculating whether the powers that be at Magic Kingdom might once again lean into chaos to celebrate the newest take on the story. After all, if anyone could pull off a playful surprise that blends mischief with heart, it would be Stitch.
The new film—directed by Dean Fleischer Camp (Marcel the Shell with Shoes On)—stays true to the original’s message about family, grief, and the unexpected bonds that can change our lives. Eight-year-old Maia Kealoha brings fresh energy to Lilo, while Sydney Elizebeth Agudong steps into the role of her protective older sister, Nani. Chris Sanders, who voiced Stitch in the 2002 animated classic, returns to lend his voice to the chaotic experiment, joined by a stellar supporting cast that includes Billy Magnussen, Hannah Waddingham, Zach Galifianakis, Tia Carrere, and Courtney B. Vance. Together, they balance laughs and emotion as Lilo and Stitch learn that “ohana”—Hawaiian for family—means nobody gets left behind.
Even without an official teaser about the castle, the buzz speaks volumes. Stitch has always been more than a character; he’s a symbol of delightful unpredictability. Whether Disney opts for a subtle Easter egg—maybe a hidden Stitch silhouette on the castle façade—or goes full-send with another one-day stunt, guests will be watching every nook and cranny of Cinderella Castle this week.
If the castle stays spotless, it won’t dim the excitement. Watching Stitch’s story come alive in cinemas is celebration enough for many. But if you spot a streak of blue paint or a surprise audio cue echoing through the hub, don’t be shocked. After all, Stitch once proved he could take over the kingdom… and there’s no rule saying he can’t crash the party again.
