Fil-Am star Tia Carrere joins ‘Lilo & Stitch’ live-action remake in new role
Photo from tiacarrere/Instagram
Filipino American actress Tia Carrere, widely recognized for voicing Nani in Disney’s original “Lilo & Stitch” (2002), is returning to the franchise – but this time in a brand-new role.
Carrere has been cast as Mrs. Kekoa, a social worker who regularly checks in on Nani in the upcoming live-action adaptation of the beloved animated classic.
The highly anticipated “Lilo & Stitch” remake is directed by Dean Fleischer Camp and is slated for a theatrical release on May 23.
Her character, Mrs. Kekoa, is described as “a practical, by-the-book, kind and patient woman” who recognizes that Nani is struggling to keep things together while raising her younger sister, Lilo.
In the live-action version, Sydney Elizabeth Agudong will take on the role of Nani, while Maia Kealoha plays Lilo.
Moreover, adding to the star-studded cast are Billy Magnussen, Hannah Waddingham, Courtney B. Vance and Zach Galifianakis. Notably, Chris Sanders, the original voice of Stitch, is reprising his role as the iconic and fan favorite blue alien.
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For Carrere, this project is a full-circle moment. She originally voiced Nani, a role that resonated deeply with audiences due to its heartfelt portrayal of sisterhood and responsibility.
Now, she takes on a different yet equally significant character, bringing her back to the world of Lilo & Stitch in a new light.
Beyond her involvement in the film, Carrere was recently honored at the Manila International Film Festival, where she received the prestigious Trailblazer Award.
Expressing her gratitude on Instagram, she shared, “Thank you @manilaintlfilmfest for the Trailblazer Award!” She also gave a special mention to fellow actor Mark Dacascos, who presented her with the honor.
Meanwhile, she also graced the latest Oscars and described it as an “incredible Oscars weekend.”
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As she steps into her latest role, fans eagerly anticipate her return to the Lilo & Stitch universe in a more heartfelt and meaningful way.
