Disney’s live-action adaptation of Lilo & Stitch gave fans plenty to cheer about, from nostalgic nods to heartwarming moments. But eagle-eyed viewers may have caught an exciting glimpse during one brief scene: hidden among Jumbaa Jookiba’s scientific schematics and experiment logs are visual hints at other genetic creations besides Stitch.
Longtime fans of the animated series will recognize these as Stitch’s “cousins”, a term affectionately used in Lilo & Stitch: The Series to describe the other experiments in Jumba’s galactic arsenal.
While the live-action film centers on Experiment 626 (Stitch) and his bond with Lilo, the cameos of Experiments 624 (Angel), 625 (Reuben), and 627 (sometimes nicknamed “Evile”) hint that Disney might be setting the stage for something bigger. Could a sequel explore these characters in full? Here’s everything we know about these experiments and why fans are eager to see more.
Angel (Experiment 624)
First Appearance: Lilo & Stitch: The Series, Season 1, Episode 37 “Angel” (2004)
Powers: Angel possesses a unique and dangerous ability: when she sings her hypnotic siren song, she can turn any “good” experiment back to evil. However, when her song is played in reverse, it undoes the effect.
Relationship with Stitch: Angel is more than just another experiment; she’s Stitch’s love interest. Their relationship is tender and sincere, offering a side of Stitch rarely seen: gentle, romantic, and protective. Despite being designed for evil, Angel is rehabilitated and joins the side of good. She quickly became a fan-favorite, even earning roles in international spin-offs like Stitch! the anime.
Reuben (Experiment 625)
First Appearance: Stitch! The Movie (2003)
Powers: Reuben is essentially Stitch’s equal in terms of strength, agility, and durability. But unlike Stitch, Reuben prefers laziness over action. His greatest passion? Making sandwiches. He’s sarcastic, clever, and surprisingly insightful when he wants to be.
Relationship with Stitch: While Reuben starts off as Dr. Hämsterviel’s sidekick, he eventually becomes Stitch’s unlikely ally. In Leroy & Stitch (2006), Reuben finally shows his true potential, fighting alongside Stitch and the others to stop the Leroy clones. His loyalty and charm make him a standout character.
Experiment 627
First Appearance: Lilo & Stitch: The Series, Episode “Experiment 627” (2004)
Powers: Designed to surpass Stitch, Experiment 627 is stronger, faster, and more durable. He also has additional appendages and the ability to deflect energy blasts. However, his major flaw is his uncontrollable arrogance and incessant laughter, which render him ineffective in serious situations. In contrast to Stitch, 627 cannot be turned good, as he is programmed to be permanently evil.
Relationship with Stitch: 627 was created as a potential upgrade to Stitch, but quickly proved too unstable. Stitch ultimately defeats him by outsmarting him, proving that heart and discipline matter more than raw power.
What This Means for a Sequel
The inclusion of these experiments, even briefly, is more than just fan service; it suggests Disney may be testing the waters for expanding the live-action universe. With the original animated series boasting over 600 experiments, there’s rich storytelling potential for future installments. Angel’s emotional arc, Reuben’s comic relief, and 627’s chaotic energy would offer fresh dynamics and even more heart.
If the Lilo & Stitch live-action remake continues to perform well on Disney+ or in theaters, it wouldn’t be a stretch to imagine a sequel diving deeper into the experiment database. For longtime fans and curious newcomers, the “cousins” may soon take center stage, and ohana might grow even bigger.
