Disney Under Fire for Cutting this Character in Lilo & Stitch Live-Action Remake

Disney’s latest live-action remake, Lilo & Stitch, has officially hit theaters, but the absence of one major character has fans buzzing with disappointment and frustration.

Captain Gantu, the towering and formidable villain from the original 2002 animated classic, is nowhere to be seen in the 2025 live-action adaptation — a creative choice that has sparked widespread backlash and debate.

The omission of Captain Gantu is particularly significant given his central role in the original film and subsequent Lilo & Stitch projects.

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As a high-ranking officer of the Galactic Federation, Gantu served as a primary antagonist, tirelessly pursuing Stitch and often butting heads with Earth’s unconventional ohana.

His absence not only alters the original dynamic but could also reshape the trajectory of future live-action sequels in the Lilo & Stitch franchise, where he often reappeared in various capacities.

Director Explains the Decision

Director Dean Fleischer Camp addressed the controversial decision in a recent interview with Cinema Blend.

According to Camp, efforts were made to incorporate Gantu into the story, but ultimately, he felt the character didn’t translate effectively to live-action.

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“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,” Camp explained.

He elaborated further on the narrative adjustments, saying, “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.”

While the film attempts to focus more on the emotional bond between Lilo and Nani — an element deeply rooted in the original story — many fans believe this doesn’t justify the removal of such a pivotal character.

Mixed Reactions from Fans

The response from fans has been swift and passionate. Many took to social media platforms, especially X (formerly Twitter), to express their frustration.

“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!” wrote one incredulous user.

Another fan added, “He only needed maybe 5 minutes of screen time. This is budget bulls–t talk.”

Poor Captain Gantu not being in the remake. #JusticeForGantu pic.twitter.com/smcHtPv6BM

— NickJ.Man (@NickJ_Awesome) May 25, 2025

Such sentiments reflect a growing fatigue among audiences who feel that Disney is sacrificing beloved aspects of its animated classics in favor of creative liberties or budget constraints.

Yet, not all fans are disappointed. Some viewers who have already seen the film believe the story holds up without Gantu.

“Watched the movie last night. Not having Gantu didn’t take away from the story or plot at all,” one fan posted.

“Jumba has a slightly altered character arc, which can make sense. I thoroughly enjoyed the movie.”

This split in audience reaction suggests that expectations may be influencing the perception of these remakes.

Those anticipating a faithful recreation may be more prone to disappointment, while others open to reinterpretation might find more enjoyment.

Implications for the Franchise’s Future

The decision to exclude Captain Gantu doesn’t just affect the current film — it could have broader implications for any potential future installments.

In the Lilo & Stitch franchise, Gantu plays a recurring role in titles like Stitch! The Movie, Lilo & Stitch: The Series, and Leroy & Stitch.

His presence helped bridge storylines and deepen the narrative universe.

Without Gantu, there’s also uncertainty around the inclusion of other fan-favorite characters like Reuben (Experiment 625), a sandwich-loving, sarcastic creation of Jumba.

Reuben often appears as Gantu’s sidekick, providing comic relief and contrast to his superior’s gruff demeanor.

If Gantu is permanently cut from the live-action narrative, characters like Reuben may never make it to the big screen in this format.

Still, there’s a possibility that Disney could introduce these characters in later sequels if demand is strong enough.

Some speculate that Jumba, who reportedly takes on a more antagonistic role in the remake, could become the new focal point for villainy — possibly creating space for Reuben to enter the picture under a new context.

A Balancing Act of Nostalgia and Innovation

As Disney continues its streak of reimagining animated classics for new generations, it walks a delicate line between honoring the original material and making creative updates to suit modern storytelling and technological constraints.

The controversy surrounding Gantu’s removal is another example of the challenges that come with these adaptations.

Fans can only hope that Disney will take audience feedback seriously and consider the role of fan-favorite characters when planning future entries.

For now, Lilo & Stitch fans will have to accept a version of the story without the hulking villain who once chased Stitch through the skies of Hawaii — and hope that, just maybe, he’ll make a surprise return one day.

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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