Stitch Is Mickey Mouse’s Successor, Disney Reveals
In a major merchandising milestone, Disney has confirmed that Lilo & Stitch is on track to become the company’s second-largest licensed merchandise franchise this year, trailing only behind the legendary Mickey Mouse. This marks an impressive achievement for the franchise, which has evolved from a beloved 2002 animated film into a merchandising phenomenon.
Stitch’s Explosive Surge in Global Demand
The announcement came as part of Disney’s latest earnings update, where the company highlighted Lilo & Stitch’s explosive surge in global demand, particularly among teens, young adults, and collectors. Despite the franchise’s relatively modest box office performance—the original film grossed $273.1 million worldwide—Lilo & Stitch has become a force to be reckoned with in the world of licensed merchandise. The quirky blue alien, originally known as “Experiment 626,” now dominates shelves with everything from plush toys and apparel to accessories, stationery, and home decor.
Part of Stitch’s incredible success can be attributed to the enduring nostalgia surrounding the character, as well as the powerful influence of social media. The franchise’s timing could not be better, as the buzz around Disney’s upcoming live-action Lilo & Stitch adaptation has generated significant interest despite production delays. This new version of the beloved story promises to introduce Stitch to a whole new generation, ensuring the character’s merchandising momentum continues to grow.
Disney says that Lilo & Stitch is on track to become the company's second-largest licensed merchandise franchise this year behind only Mickey Mouse. pic.twitter.com/sWpDqTU16z
— Ashley Carter (@AshleyLCarter1) August 6, 2025
Rivaling the Biggest Disney Icons
Currently, only Mickey Mouse outpaces Stitch in terms of licensed merchandise revenue, positioning Stitch as the highest-ranking character from Disney’s post-1990s animation era. Notably, Stitch has already surpassed other major Disney characters such as Elsa, Buzz Lightyear, and even Marvel’s Avengers in current consumer demand.
With the holiday shopping season fast approaching, Disney is confident that Stitch will maintain his place as a merchandising juggernaut just behind Mickey.
Do you own any Stitch merchandise? Is he your favorite Disney character? Let us know in the comments—and stay tuned for even more Stitch-themed releases in the coming months!
