Disney just unveiled a first-look trailer for their live-action adaptation of Lilo & Stitch, and it’s perhaps the most enthusiastic Disney fans have been to see a live-action remake in a long time. Maia Kealoha is just as adorable as the animated Lilo, Sydney Agudong exudes the same strict but loving energy as Nani, and Stitch, well, he is just as mischievous and loveable as ever. But if there’s one thing that feels somewhat odd about the upcoming Lilo & Stitch film, it’s not having Ving Rhames reprise his role as Cobra Bubbles.
Though several of the original voice actors from the animated film have returned in some capacity for the upcoming live-action remake, Ving Rhames’ absence is wholly apparent. If “Ohana means family” and “Family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten,” then the new adaptation’s exclusion of the original performer feels like somewhat of a missed opportunity to maintain the nostalgic connection we all felt for the animated classic and its cast.
Not only did the Golden Globe-winning actor lend his distinctive voice to Mr Bubbles back in 2002, but let’s face it, his physical appearance and acting style would have been a perfect fit for the live-action role. After all, the original design of the social worker turned former CIA agent was based on his character Marsellus Wallace from Pulp Fiction.
Netizens have long expressed their dissatisfaction with the final casting selection for the Disney character, with many unhappy fans flocking to social media after Courtney B. Vance was confirmed as the official live-action Cobra Bubbles in 2023.
But given that Ving Rhames is presently working on several projects, including a new Mission Impossible film, scheduling difficulties likely kept him from stepping back into his role as the tough but lovable Cobra Bubbles in the live-action Lilo & Stitch. Yet you can’t help but feel a tinge of disappointment when you see a less bulky and less smooth Vance take on the character in the recently revealed trailer.
Even though we only catch a few seconds of his portrayal in the two-and-a-half-minute clip, it immediately lacks the hulking physique, commanding presence, and effortless calm of the beloved animated character.
Of course, this is such an insignificant quibble in the grander scheme of things, as it really does look like Disney has put a lot of effort into creating an adaptation that fans will enjoy. I mean, they even made sure to add a live-action version of the falling ice cream guy to the movie—albeit a revised interpretation of the character.
Watch the teaser below for a preview of what to expect from the upcoming film. It’s an enticing glimpse into the world of Lilo & Stitch, and it’s sure to get you excited for the film’s release in theatres on May 23, 2025.
RELATED: OMG! The Powerpuff Girls Live-Action Show Is Even Worse Than Imagined
Tell us, do you think Ving Rhames should have played Cobra Bubbles in the live-action Lilo & Stitch movie?
