Disney Taps Chris Sanders to Direct Live-Action Lilo & Stitch Sequel
Chris Sanders, co-creator and co-director of the original 2002 Lilo & Stitch animated film, has been tapped to direct the upcoming live-action sequel for Disney. Sanders, who also provides the voice for the character Stitch, is currently attached as the project’s screenwriter. Production on the sequel is scheduled to begin later this year, according to reports from The Hollywood Reporter.
How Has the Lilo & Stitch Franchise Performed Financially?
The franchise has proven to be a significant financial asset for Disney, with the recent live-action reboot grossing over $1 billion at the global box office. Domestic ticket sales accounted for $423.7 million of that total. This performance underscores the enduring appeal of the “ohana” brand, which originated in the 2002 animated classic and expanded through two direct-to-video sequels and a television series. The success of the live-action model relies heavily on a dual audience: families and Gen Z viewers who grew up with the original, according to industry data.
Why Is Chris Sanders a Key Choice for the Sequel?
Sanders brings deep institutional knowledge to the production. Having co-written and co-directed the 2002 animated film with Dean DeBlois, his involvement ensures narrative continuity. His recent work on DreamWorks Animation’s The Wild Robot—which earned nine Annie Awards and three Oscar nominations—highlights his proficiency in blending character-driven storytelling with technical animation. Rideback’s Jonathan Eirich, who served as a producer on the initial live-action remake, is returning to produce the sequel alongside executive producer Ryan Halprin.
Comparison: Animation vs. Live-Action Directorial Paths
| Project | Director | Format |
|---|---|---|
| Lilo & Stitch (2025) | Dean Fleischer Camp | Live-Action |
| Lilo & Stitch Sequel | Chris Sanders | Live-Action |
What Should Fans Expect From the New Story?
The upcoming sequel is confirmed to be a brand-new story rather than a direct remake of previous sequels like Stitch! The Movie or Stitch Has a Glitch. By moving away from established direct-to-video plotlines, Disney aims to capture the same nostalgia-driven audience while providing original content. Shooting is slated for later this year, though Disney has not yet released a formal release date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is directing the live-action Lilo & Stitch sequel?
Chris Sanders, who co-created and co-directed the original 2002 animated film, has been named the director for the upcoming live-action sequel.
Is this the first time Chris Sanders has directed live-action?
No. Sanders previously directed the 2020 film The Call of the Wild, which featured Harrison Ford and CGI-animated animals.
Will the sequel follow the plot of the animated direct-to-video movies?
No. According to production reports, the sequel will feature a brand-new, original story.
Are you excited to see the return of Stitch in a new live-action adventure? Share your thoughts in the comments section below or subscribe to our entertainment newsletter for the latest updates on Disney’s upcoming slate.
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