The following contains spoilers for Lilo & Sтιтch, now playing in theatersLilo & Sтιтch quietly sets up Experiment 627, which could be teasing the direction of a potential sequel. Lilo & Sтιтch is a very cute adaptation of the 2002 animated classic, reimagining the тιтular Hawaiian girl and the chaotic blue alien in live-action. 2025’s Lilo & Sтιтch does make some pretty big changes to the original narrative, even if the core emotional throughline of the movie remains intact.
The 2025 Lilo & Sтιтch also contains some clever shout-outs to the animated versions of Lilo and Sтιтch, 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 Sтιтch’s most dangerous enemies. Here’s how the ending of Lilo & Sтιтch sneaks in a reference to Experiment 627, and what it could mean for a possible sequel.
Jumba Mentions Experiment 627 At The End Of Lilo & Sтιтch
Jumba Wants To Transform Sтιтch Into A Worst Monster
Lilo’s presence on the ship proves to be the crucial wrench in Jumba’s plans, as she’s able to work with Sтιтch and free the alien to defeat Jumba. This leads to the ending of the film, where the Galactic Federation recaptures Jumba and Sтιтch is allowed to remain in exile on Earth. However, the existence of Experiment 627 as a concept is an enticing one for fans of Lilo & Sтιтch, 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 & Sтιтch?
Experiment 627 Had To Be Outwitted Instead Of Just Defeated
Teased in Sтιтch! The Movie as one of the only of Jumba’s experiments that would be impossible to redeem fully, 627 was formally introduced in Lilo & Sтιтch: The Series as a major antagonist for Sтιтch. Designed with all of Sтιтch’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 Sтιтch 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, Sтιтch 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 the Sтιтch! anime and largely serves as a direct contrast to the growth that Sтιтch experienced alongside Lilo. This makes Experiment 627 an ideal contrast to Sтιтch in a possible sequel.
Could Experiment 627 Become A Character In A Sequel?
A Villainous Sтιтch Would Be An Ideal Antagonist For A Lilo & Sтιтch Sequel
Lilo & Sтιтch‘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 to Lilo & Sтιтch. With Jumba reimagined as a more overt villain in this continuity, he could create a live-action version of Experiment 627 to combat Sтιтch. This could be a good way to showcase Sтιтch’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 to Lilo & Sтιтch. 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 that Disney is already considering franchise directions for Lilo & Sтιтch, 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 to Lilo & Sтιтch.