The following contains spoilers for Lilo & Stitch, now playing in theatersLilo & Stitchquietly sets up Experiment 627, which could be teasing the direction of a potential sequel.Lilo & Stitchis a very cute adaptation of the 2002 animated classic, reimagining the titular Hawaiian girl and the chaotic blue alien in live-action.2025’sLilo & Stitchdoes make some pretty big changes to the original narrative, even if the core emotional throughline of the movie remains intact.
The 2025Lilo & Stitchalso contains some clever shout-outs to the animated versions of Lilo and Stitch, which expanded after the initial success of the 2002 film to include multiple animated TV shows. One of these teases might have greater significance for the future of the franchise, however, as it could be seen as a set-up for one of Stitch’s most dangerous enemies. Here’s howthe ending ofLilo & Stitchsneaks in a reference to Experiment 627, and what it could mean for a possible sequel.
Jumba Wants To Transform Stitch Into A Worst Monster
Image via Disney
During the climax ofLilo & Stitch, Jumba mentions his intentions to advance “Experiment 672,“which could be seen as a franchise easter egg or potential sequel set-up. After capturing Stitch, Jumba reveals his plan is to escape back into space and continue his experimentation on Stitch. Frustrated by Stitch’s capacity for emotional connections, Jumba scrolls through a number of experiments on a computer screen, landing on a red and vicious-looking variant of Stitch that he intends to transform Stitch into.
Lilo’s presence on the ship proves to be the crucial wrench in Jumba’s plans, as she’s able to work with Stitch and free the alien to defeat Jumba. This leads to the ending of the film, where the Galactic Federation recaptures Jumba and Stitch is allowed to remain in exile on Earth. However,the existence of Experiment 627 as a concept is an enticing one for fans ofLilo & Stitch, as that specific experiment listing is actually a reference to the original spin-off of the 2002 animated version of the story.
Who Is Experiment 627 In Lilo & Stitch?
Teased inStitch! The Movieas one of the only of Jumba’s experiments that would be impossible to redeem fully, 627 was formally introduced inLilo & Stitch: The Seriesas a major antagonist for Stitch. Designed with all of Stitch’s abilities as well as a more malicious core, 627 broke free from Jumba and worked alongside Gantu to capture the other experiments. Unlike the other experiments in the show that eventually found homes and were given names,Experiment 627 remained a dangerous threat for much of the show.
This makes Experiment 627 an ideal contrast to Stitch in a possible sequel.
Even in a series where growth and redemption were core morals of the story, 627 proved to be too dangerous to trust. Easily distracted by laughing at others' misfortunes, Stitch was able to distract 627 long enough for the alien to be defeated and contained by Lilo using a dehydrator.Experiment 627 has appeared in subsequent shows like theStitch!animeand largely serves as a direct contrast to the growth that Stitch experienced alongside Lilo. This makes Experiment 627 an ideal contrast to Stitch in a possible sequel.
Could Experiment 627 Become A Character In A Sequel?
A Villainous Stitch Would Be An Ideal Antagonist For A Lilo & Stitch Sequel
Lilo & Stitch’s reference to Experiment 627 could ultimately just be that, a quick but recognizable easter egg for older fans. However, Experiment 627 could also be the first step towards a follow-up toLilo & Stitch. With Jumba reimagined as a more overt villain in this continuity, he could create a live-action version of Experiment 627 to combat Stitch.This could be a good way to showcase Stitch’s evolution, pitting him against the kind of chaotic monster he used to be. It could even be a clever way to introduce Gantu after the live-action film cut him.
There’s plenty of reason to believe that Disney is circling a sequel toLilo & Stitch. The film has earned solid reviews and is expected to be a behemoth at the box office. Disney Entertainment co-chairman Alan Bergman has even mentioned thatDisney is already considering franchise directions forLilo & Stitch, indicating that the studio believes they have a winner on their hands. The tease about Experiment 627 could turn out to be a very big sign of where those potential follow-ups could go and what kind of threats could arise in a sequel toLilo & Stitch.
