The Lilo & Stitch live-action remake is officially out in theaters, but one key character is missing from the screen.
Captain Gantu, the main villain of the 2002 animated film, does not appear in the 2025 version. Fans have mixed reactions to the news, with many enraged by the cut.
This may also impact future live-action projects for Lilo & Stitch, since the franchise often included Gantu in future scuffles.
Keep reading to learn more about the decision.
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Captain Gantu Absent from Lilo & Stitch Live-Action
The decision to cut Gantu from the live-action film came after Disney suffered similar backlash to making large changes to the Snow White live-action film, most notably creating the seven dwarfs from CGI.
While that film bombed at the box office, Lilo & Stitch seems to be doing better.
Director Dean Fleischer Camp’s Reasons For the Cut
Camp tried to include the infamous Captain of the Galactic Federation.
In an interview with Cinema Blend, he commented, “Gantu was one of those things that just didn’t work so well in live action. We explored it a bit, but ultimately we had to make the decision.”
When talking about the impact on the film as a whole, Camp continued, “And also, I do stand by the decision because I feel like a lot of the things that, in trying to ground these characters more and tell a story with a little more emotional depth, especially between the sisters, I feel like you have to free up real estate to allow that breathing room to do those things.”
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Fan Reactions
Of course, not every fan agrees with Camp’s logic.
Several took to social media with their feelings, with some lamenting about their favorite character not being included in the remake, while others were just annoyed.
One commenter posted on X, “Didn’t work well in live action? You made an entire armada of aliens, and had Stitch the main character in a world with real people. No excuses!” Another commenter claimed, “He only needed maybe 5 minutes of screen time. This is budget bulls–t talk.”
However, some fans support the decision.
“Watched the movie last night. Not having Gantu didn’t take away from the story or plot at all,” wrote one fan. “Jumba has a slightly altered character arc, which can make sense. I thoroughly enjoyed the movie.”
Perhaps going in with the idea that the live-action isn’t an exact copy may help with overall sentiments after the film credits roll.
What This Could Mean For Future Installments
While Gantu might not appear in the singular Lilo & Stitch live-action remake, the decision could pose trouble if Disney wants to remake more of the Lilo & Stitch franchise.
Gantu appears as a supporting antagonist in several other projects, including Stitch! The Movie, Lilo & Stitch: The Series, and Leroy & Stitch.
This could also impact the introduction of another beloved side character, Reuben. Appearing alongside Gantu, Reuben is another of Jumba’s experiments, specifically Experiment 625.
While he may be nearly as powerful as Stitch, Reuben’s lazy nature and sarcastic comments have appealed to many fans. Unless Gantu is introduced in future installments, Reuben may not appear in live-action.
Perhaps he could join forces with Jumba, as he takes the mantle of main villain in the live-action remake. We will just have to wait and see.
Also Read: ‘Snow White’ Flopped So Brutally That Disney Has Shelved Another Live-Action Princess Remake
Watch the Trailer Here
The Lilo & Stitch live-action remake is officially in theaters, so make sure to watch your favorite blue alien on the big screen.
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