Filipino-American actress Sydney Agudong cast in 'Lilo & Stitch' live-action adaptation

Filipino-American actress Sydney Agudong will be part of the upcoming live-action adaptation of Lilo & Stitch as Lilo's older sister and guardian, Nani, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

The upcoming movie with star Maia Kealoha as Lilo, Zach Galifianakis as Pleakley, while Stitch will be made using CGI. Billy Magnussen is also part of the cast in an undisclosed role.

Her casting, however, faced online backlash and sparked colorism debate. Many online users pointed out that although Sydney was born and raised in Hawaii, she is not a native Hawaiian.

According to reports, Sydney has Hawaiian, British, Irish, and Filipino roots. She was born and raised in Kaua'i, Hawaii, before moving to Los Angeles to pursue her dreams. She appeared in several US series such as NCIS, Find Millie Martin, and On My Block. She was also part of several movies such as Infamously in Love and West Michigan.

Lilo & Stitch is set to air on Disney+ this year.

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