![Star of Disney's $1 Billion Live-Action Shares an Update on the Sequel's Script [Exclusive]](https://static0.colliderimages.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/lilo-stitch_v9l3fi.jpg)
Billy Magnussen as Pleakley and Zach Galifianakis as Jumba in Lilo & StitchImage Via Disney
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Hannah Hunt
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Steven Weintraub
Published Jan 25, 2026, 7:43 PM EST
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Disney’s live-action Lilo & Stitch sequel is moving forward behind-the-scenes. After reports confirmed that a live-action sequel is in development with franchise co-creator Chris Sanders set to write the script last year, one of the film’s stars is now sharing how much he wants to come back if everything falls into place. During the Sundance Film Festival, Billy Magnussen spoke with Collider’s Steve Weintraub while promoting The Audacity at our studio, and the actor didn’t hide his enthusiasm for potentially returning to Lilo & Stitch as Pleakley. While Magnussen made it clear he doesn’t have official details or a formal offer, he indicated the project is actively being worked on, and that he’s “praying” for the call.
Magnussen also reflected on why the movie resonates for him beyond being a Disney project, pointing to the emotional core that’s made the franchise endure. As he puts it, he’s always drawn to stories built around heart, and that’s what he sees at the center of Lilo & Stitch.
They’re “Trying to Create a Script” for the Sequel
When Weintraub brought up the sequel, Magnussen responded enthusiastically:
“Yeah, Lilo & Stitch! I hope so. That little girl, that whole family… And again, with Zach Galifianakis in that. That’s where we met. He’s a great guy.”
Asked if Disney has approached him about returning, Magnussen said he hasn’t been officially tapped to return just yet, but it sounds like the creative process is underway. “I hope. I think they’re trying to create a script. So, hopefully. I’m praying,” he said. Magnussen also underlined why he’s eager to return to the franchise, reframing it as something bigger than a “kids’ movie.” “Again, I’ll always do a kids’ film. I shouldn’t say ‘kids’ film.’ I’ll say a family film, where it’s heart,” Magnussen said. “I love doing projects that have heart.”
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Join our newsletter to receive in-depth coverage of the Lilo & Stitch sequel and broader film news — casting updates, creator comments, and thoughtful context that helps you follow the project’s development and its place in the franchise. Subscribe By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.Lilo & Stitch is available to stream on Disney+. Stay tuned with Collider for updates on the sequel and the full interview out of Sundance.
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Lilo & Stitch
Like Follow Followed PG Family Science Fiction Comedy Adventure Release Date May 23, 2025 Runtime 108 minutes Director Dean Fleischer Camp Writers Mike Van Waes, Chris Kekaniokalani Bright Producers Dan Lin Franchise(s) DisneyCast
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Maia Kealoha
Lilo
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Sydney Agudong
Nani
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Lilo & Stitch
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Billy Magnussen
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