Disney is known for making some of the most beloved films in history. With a vast library of animated classics, live-action blockbusters, and an extensive catalog of original content for their streaming service, Disney+ has become synonymous with family-friendly entertainment. However, the production house often faces backlash for its casting choices.
Recently, Disney has come under fire for casting choices in the upcoming live-action remake of the beloved animated film Lilo & Stitch. It is an animated science fiction film that follows the story of a young Hawaiian girl named Lilo who adopts a strange and mischievous alien creature named Stitch, whom she believes is a dog.
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Why Are Fans Calling Out Disney For Casting Sydney Agudong
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Disney has cast Sydney Agudong, a light-skinned actress, as Nani, a character with a Hawaiian heritage. It has sparked outrage among fans, with many criticizing Disney for perpetuating colorism and ignoring the community’s diversity. Fans of the series have a different vision of what Nani should look like, leading to a notion that Agudong may not be the right fit for the role.
Disney hasn’t made an official announcement regarding casting the 22-year-old actress and singer for the part. Having previously starred in projects such as NCIS, Infamously in Love, and the feature film West Michigan, Sydney Agudong has already established herself as a versatile actress. Born and raised in Hawaii, Agudong’s background and upbringing brings a refreshing perspective to her work.
Earlier this week, it was reported that the film would also have Aladdin’s Billy Magnussen, who will join Zach Galifianakis, and newcomer Maia Kealoha, who will portray the role of Lilo.
What Is Disney’s Lilo & Stitch All About
The story is set in Hawaii and tells a tale of the connection between Lilo, a lonely young girl, and Stitch, an alien resembling a dog designed for destruction. Despite the constant interruption from intrusive social workers and relentless extraterrestrial hunters, the pair form a bond based on their mutual understanding of the importance of family, ultimately overcoming all the hurdles.
The screenwriter for the upcoming adaptation is Chris Kekaniokalani Bright. The original feature, which wasn’t an instant success, was written and directed by Chris Sanders and Dean DeBlois. However, despite its slow start, the film managed to garner a loyal following that has continued to grow over the years.
The upcoming film is being produced by Dan Lin and Jonathan Eirich of Rideback, with Ryan Halprin serving as the executive producer. Lilo & Stitch‘s live-action adaptation is expected to release in May 2024. It will later be available for streaming on Disney+.
Source: Twitter
