In the original movie, the alien characters Jumba and Pleakley arrive on Earth to capture Stitch, a genetically engineered creature who has escaped to Hawaii. As they attempt to blend in with the human population, Pleakley humorously disguises himself in a dress and wig, leading to a series of comical situations.
This element of Pleakley’s character became a fan favorite, celebrated both for its humor and its playful subversion of gender norms.
However, fans were quick to point out that in the trailer for the live-action adaptation, Pleakley is notably absent from his iconic disguise.
Director Dean Fleischer Camp responded directly to a fan’s question in a TikTok video, saying: “I’ve had people message me asking, ‘Why isn’t Pleakley wearing the dress?’ And all I can say is — I tried.”
He highlighted his commitment to staying true to the original character by revealing early concept art that depicted Pleakley wearing women’s clothing and a red wig.
However, Disney ultimately decided to leave that aspect out of the final version.
As Camp explained to Entertainment Weekly, “The comedy of them wandering around Hawaii in these ridiculous disguises—especially with Pleakley still having just one big eyeball—is a bit tougher to sell in live action.”
While the change might have been made for a more authentic or practical depiction, many fans see it as Disney yielding to political pressure.
As one person speculated: “When he said he tried, I think he meant Disney turned him down… Considering the current political climate, it’s not surprising they wanted to steer clear.”
One frustrated fan demands, “If Pleakley’s not in a dress, just cancel the movie.”
Despite the criticism, the live-action remake still boasts a talented cast, including Maia Kealoha as Lilo, Sydney Elizebeth Agudong as Nani, and Chris Sanders returning to voice Stitch.
However, for many fans, the decision to remove Pleakley’s cross-dressing element feels like a loss of the original’s heart and spirit.
As one disappointed viewer put it, “I’m skipping this one in theaters… It seems like the soul of the movie is gone.”
