Maia Kealoha's Big Debut as Lilo

Maia Kealoha, the talented child actress from Hawaii, is ready to charm audiences as Lilo in Disney’s live-action adaptation of "Lilo & Stitch," hitting theaters on May 23. At just 7 years old, her portrayal of Lilo marks a significant milestone in her acting journey.

Kealoha’s journey to stardom began when she auditioned at the tender age of 5, standing out immediately in callbacks. Director Dean Fleischer Camp noted, “She was the front-runner.” Her enthusiasm and confidence made her the perfect fit to embody the spirited character of Lilo.

Born and raised on the Big Island of Hawaii, Maia proudly embraces her heritage, often sharing her love for hula dancing. Like Lilo, she finds joy in creativity, citing her passion for crafts and natural Hawaiian beauty—a perfect reflection of the role she's destined to play.

In anticipation of the film's release, Kealoha has already shared delightful insights about her favorite scenes, including a hilarious water fight with Stitch. As she looks ahead, Maia dreams of collaborating with Justin's favorite stars, like Jenna Ortega and Adam Sandler, showcasing her ambition and star power.

Her Journey to Capture the Role

Maia Kealoha's journey to landing the iconic role of Lilo began when she was just 5 years old. She participated in an open casting call for Disney's live-action remake of "Lilo & Stitch." According to director Dean Fleischer Camp, her audition tape was promising, setting the stage for her future success.

After impressing during her initial audition, Kealoha returned for a callback that would change her life. Camp recalls the moment vividly, stating, "It was clear to all of us that she was the front-runner." Maia's enthusiasm stood out; she was the one urging her parents to take her to these auditions, showcasing her desire to embody the beloved character.

When she finally received the news that she had been cast as Lilo, Kealoha could hardly contain her excitement. In an interview with PEOPLE, she described the moment: "My jaw literally dropped... I couldn't even believe it!" Her joy was palpable as she celebrated with her father, marking a significant milestone in her budding acting career.

As filming progressed, Kealoha found many similarities between herself and Lilo. Both share a deep connection to their Hawaiian roots and a love for creative activities. Reflecting on her character, Maia said, "I would say I'm a crafty girl," highlighting how her life experiences have infused her performance with authenticity.

Fun Facts and Behind-the-Scenes Moments

Maia Kealoha brought a unique charm to her role as Lilo, drawing from her Hawaiian roots. During filming, she enjoyed showcasing her culture, often incorporating hula dancing into her free time. The cast shared laughs as they embraced the beauty of Hawaii, helping to create an authentic atmosphere on set.

One of the standout moments in the live-action adaptation features a hilarious water fight between Lilo and Stitch. Kealoha recently revealed that they only had one shot to film this comical scene. The tension and excitement of getting drenched on set created unforgettable bonds between the cast and crew.

Off-camera shenanigans were a highlight for the cast, especially Kealoha's playful pranks on director Dean Fleischer Camp. She would sneakily hug him and place googly eyeball stickers on his backside! The crew erupted in laughter when Camp finally caught on, cementing a light-hearted camaraderie throughout the production.

Kealoha made her mark at the Gold Gala, where she was the youngest presenter of the night. Honoring first responders from the Maui wildfires, her elegance and enthusiasm shined through. Wearing a stunning design by Kini Zamora, she celebrated Hawaiian culture while turning heads on the red carpet, igniting excitement for her future endeavors.

Kealoha's Future Aspirations in Acting

Maia Kealoha is just getting started! As she takes the industry by storm with her role as Lilo in Disney's live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch, the young star is already dreaming big about her future in acting.

Kealoha has expressed her desire to share the screen with a star-studded lineup, mentioning icons like Jenna Ortega and Adam Sandler as potential co-stars. The excitement is palpable; she admires their work and envisions unforgettable projects together.

Along with her aspirations to work alongside her favorite actors, Kealoha has a passion for storytelling. She hopes her roles will explore compelling narratives, particularly those that reflect her Hawaiian heritage or highlight diverse experiences.

As Maia Kealoha continues her journey in Hollywood, she's already making waves and gaining recognition. With her infectious enthusiasm and undeniable talent, it won’t be long before she is a household name, inspiring young actors everywhere to pursue their dreams.