As Disney continues its mission to bring animated favorites into the realm of live action, each new announcement brings a wave of excitement, curiosity, and sometimes, concern. While nostalgia plays a key role in drawing audiences back to reimagined classics, it also raises expectations.
For many longtime fans, these adaptations are held to a high standard, not just for visual spectacle, but for preserving the characters and stories they fell in love with.
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One film that has generated especially passionate interest is Disney’s live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch. The 2002 original holds a special place in the hearts of fans for its heartfelt message, eccentric characters, and emotional exploration of loss, belonging, and the bonds of family.
Set in Hawaii, the story follows a spirited young girl, Lilo, and her misfit alien pet Stitch as they navigate both personal grief and galactic chaos. Its unique blend of humor, heart, and culture helped the film become an instant classic.
So, when plans for a live-action adaptation were announced, fans were understandably both excited and cautious.
Related: VIDEO: Stitch Brings the Mayhem to Disney’s Live-Action Promotion
Over time, Disney has slowly revealed information about the cast and direction of the project. But one recent development has sparked frustration and disbelief among the Lilo & Stitch faithful—and it centers around a major omission.
Fans were shocked to learn that Captain Gantu, the towering, shark-like alien and the original film’s primary antagonist, is reportedly being cut from the live-action remake.
While Disney hasn’t formally addressed the change, Gantu’s absence from casting news and the introduction of a new character named Ms. Kekoa, played by Jolene Purdy, have all but confirmed the decision.
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The reaction online was immediate. On X (formerly Twitter), fans didn’t hold back:
I knew this movie was looking too good, I just knew that they would mess it up somehow. Big time disappointment not having Captain Gantu. I’m sure it will be a fun movie, but really bummed by this news.
Captain Gantu’s role in the franchise went far beyond the original movie. After being introduced as a by-the-book enforcer for the Galactic Federation, Gantu became a recurring figure throughout sequels and the TV series. His transformation from rigid villain to reluctant ally gave him one of the richest character arcs in the Lilo & Stitch universe.
I knew this movie was looking too good, I just knew that they would mess it up somehow. Big time disappointment not having Captain Gantu. I’m sure it will be a fun movie, but really bummed by this news. pic.twitter.com/FTuVcgezCM
— Mario World Fun Zone (@MarioWorldFun) May 18, 2025
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For many, his presence helped ground the story’s sci-fi elements and provided a dynamic foil to Stitch’s chaotic energy.
That’s part of why his removal stings. As one frustrated user put it:
i know they got rid of him for budget reasons and for jumba to possibly fill his role as the antagonist but gantu served as a contrast against the grand councilwoman. she tried to see the good in others while gantu went to extreme lengths and eventually goes against her orders
i know they got rid of him for budget reasons and for jumba to possibly fill his role as the antagonist but gantu served as a contrast against the grand councilwoman. she tried to see the good in others while gantu went to extreme lengths and eventually goes against her orders https://t.co/bYq5aNpgvN
— 🧁🌈squee/krazykupcake🎸💥 (@happyfunf3tti) May 18, 2025
Replacing Gantu is Ms. Kekoa, a character not seen in any previous iteration of the franchise. According to reports, she may serve as a grounded authority figure in Lilo’s life, possibly a social worker or community liaison.
While Jolene Purdy’s casting has been well-received, many fans argue that creating a new character instead of adapting an existing one with deep narrative ties feels like a misstep.
Some fans have expressed hope that Gantu may still appear in a future installment or as a surprise cameo. Others fear this is another example of unnecessary changes being made under the assumption that younger or newer audiences won’t care about the source material.
But longtime fans are making it clear: they care deeply.
While every adaptation requires adjustment, the line between modernizing and erasing has grown increasingly blurry. Disney has seen success with remakes that retain the heart of the originals (like Cinderella (1950) and The Jungle Book (1967)), but backlash when core elements are altered or dropped altogether.
Disney’s live-action Lilo & Stitch hits theaters nationwide on May 23.
What do you think—should Disney have kept Gantu in the story? Are you open to meeting a new character like Ms. Kekoa, or do you think replacing a franchise mainstay is too risky? Let us know in the comments, and follow Disney Fanatic for more updates on Lilo & Stitch and all things Disney.
