The beloved Disney character can now interact with fans in a whole new way.
By Patrick Doyle
When Lilo & Stitch (2025) returned to the spotlight with its recent live action release, fans were treated to more than just a nostalgic trip to Hawaii, they got to interact with Stitch himself in real life.
In a groundbreaking collaboration between Industrial Light & Magic, the Walt Disney Studios, and Skywalker Sound, audiences around the world experienced a completely new way to interact with Stitch. Fans can now go behind the scenes of this unforgettable moment with a newly released making-of video that showcases the magic behind the real-time Stitch activation.
Making Magic in Real Time
“This wasn’t just about showcasing technology,” said Alyssa Finley, executive producer of the real-time Stitch experience at ILM. “It was about deepening the connection between fans and a character they love. Seeing people dance with Stitch and ask him questions live was pure joy.”
From the moment real-time Stitch hit Disney Studios’ TikTok and Instagram accounts, it was clear something special was happening. In the days leading up to the premiere, Stitch engaged with fans in real-time, offering shoutouts, surprise cameos, and plenty of chaotic dance-offs that made waves across social media.
But the fun didn’t stop there. Stitch also made an appearance at the film’s press junket, chatting (yes, chatting!) with reporters from around the globe and generating viral clips that quickly spread online.
A Blue Carpet Experience to Remember
At the Lilo & Stitch premiere in Los Angeles, fans and celebrities alike had the chance to interact with Stitch live. Whether it was asking him questions, dancing together, or witnessing his signature mischief, the experience felt spontaneous, playful and, most importantly, real.
All of this was powered by ILM’s cutting-edge performance capture and real-time animation pipeline, seamlessly integrated with support from Disney Studios and the brilliant audio minds at Skywalker Sound.
“Stitch has always held a special place in the hearts of fans around the world,” said Jason Eskin, vice president of marketing at Disney Studios. “Seeing fans light up when Stitch talked to them in real life was a reminder of why we create these moments. It was truly Disney magic, made possible through ILM’s incredible innovation.”
Bring Stitch Home
Lilo & Stitch is now available on digital and will be released on Blu-ray on Aug. 26. Whether you’re revisiting the story or experiencing it for the first time, there’s never been a better moment to fall in love with Stitch all over again.
—
Patrick Doyle is a senior publicity manager at Industrial Light & Magic.