Disney accused of ‘colourism’ after unveiling Lilo and Stitch cast

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On Friday, Disney rounded out the cast of its live-action Lilo and Stitch cast with the addition of newcomer Sydney Agudong as Nani. However, fans of the animated classic have accused Disney of colourism for “white-washing” the character. 

A live-action remake of Lilo and Stitch was first rumoured in July 2022 and left fans eagerly anticipating its release. 

Following its confirmation, the prospects of the animation returning to screens created a buzz of anticipation and excitement. 

As Disney remained tight-lipped about the show, many were thrilled when they released a full list of the cast. 

The enthusiasm soon turned to disappointment when Disney revealed Lilo’s older sister Nani would be portrayed by Sydney Agudong, who is biracial with Eurocentric features. 

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A post shared by Sydney Agudong “Jayne Doe” (@whoisjaynedoe)

Fans have complained the 22-year-old actress isn’t an accurate resemblance to the animated character who was drawn with darker skin, black hair, and ethnic features.

As the movie tells the story of a Native Hawaiian family living in the fictional Kokaua Town, many of its Hawaiian fans feel misrepresented.

Taking to Twitter, a disappointed @Birdsquawks_ remarked: “I’m sorry but Disney needs to stop with the washing & bending of its characters.”

@sugarsmorecake hit back: “You can’t convince me Disney don’t be doing this just to p**s ppl off.” (sic)

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A third fan @HosteenCholo added: “No offence to Sydney, but Nani is Indigenous Hawaiian with strong features and dark skin, this casting is blatant colourism.”

As @booksessedwhore stated: “No one is saying that the actress is not Pasifika, what we ARE saying is that Nani Pelekai is a DARK SKINNED NATIVE HAWAIIAN who was representation and visibility for us Pacific islanders.”

Despite the criticism, other Lilo and Stitch fans defended the casting, including @ItsNickFasho who tweeted: “Ain’t she Hawaiian? What’s the problem??”

@BepDelta added: “A Hawaiian character being played by a Hawaiian actor, but Twitter users are mad about the skin color.”

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The upcoming Lilo and Stitch live-action is just one of many Disney remakes which were slammed for their misrepresentation. 

This was the case after Princess Tiana made a startling appearance in the 2018 trailer for Ralph Breaks the Internet. 

Disney was met with backlash as Disney’s first Black princess had been noticeably lightened and her kinky hair had been transformed into looser curls.

After an overwhelming wave of criticism, Disney later re-animated Princess Tiana to look more like the 2009 original. 

In the 2024 adaptation of Lilo and Stitch, Maia Kealoha has been confirmed to star as the 6-year-old titular character. 

While Billy Magnussen and Zach Galifianakis’ roles have yet to be confirmed.

Disney has also remained tight-lipped about production and a potential release date. 

Express.co.uk have approached Disney for comment. 

Lilo and Stitch is available to stream on Disney+

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