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Katie Helland

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Oʻahu-based actor Kaipo Dudoit has appeared in “Rescue: HI-Surf” (2025), “My Partner” (2023) and “Magnum P.I.” (2020), among other film credits. Now, he adds the role of David Kawena in Disney’s live action version of 

It is a role he dreamed of since he watched the animated version of the film as a child, when he would mimic the animated character voiced by 

, who makes a cameo appearance in the movie.

The live action movie follows the journey of Lilo, a young girl in search of a friend who finds a partner-in-crime in the mischievous

blue alien, Stitch. Dudoit plays the love interest of Lilo’s older sister, Nani, who is also her guardian.

“I really wanted to embody his character while I was growing up,” Dudoit told Aloha State Daily. “He treats everyone with aloha and has a heart of gold.”

The character was “definitely a positive male role model for me while growing up,” he added, sharing that a lot of movies and shows portray local people in a negative way but this role was different.

The live action version of “Lilo & Stitch" includes several actors and actresses who were born and raised in the Hawaiian Islands, including 

as Mrs. Kekoa, their social worker, among others.

Dudoit comes from a musical family. His father, Horace Dudoit III, is part of Ho’okena, which has won a number of Nā Hōkū Hanohano awards.

Dudoit shared he felt “very honored, very blessed and grateful” to be part of this movie, he told ASD.

“What a great way to showcase Hawaiʻi with this story and the story of Hawaiʻi's culture and its people,” he added. “And the idea of ʻohana and how ʻohana will carry you through tough times.” 

He learned he got the role while working another job.

“I was working at a health center, and I was in between patients,” he said. “I got a call from my manager. I cried. Called my mom. We both cried. And then, I had to go back to work. It was a crazy day, and I couldn't tell anybody — well, except for my mom.”

Originally, Dudoit had wanted to be a musician. He still remembers when he decided to be an actor.

“That moment was: I was in my seat in a theater in college and I was watching a play,” he said. “It took me out of my body, basically. It transported me into a different place, and at that moment, I knew that I wanted to be a part of that kind of magic that was happening on stage.”

music for the movie, which includes the return of Kumu Hula Mark Keali'i Ho'omalu and Kamehameha Schools Children’s Chorus, as well as the addition of 

 singing a song reproduced by their uncle, Bruno Mars. 

Kaipo Dudoit

<title>ASD interviews Kaipo Dudoit, an actor in Disney’s live action “Lilo & Stitch”</title>

Oʻahu-based actor Kaipo Dudoit surfs, fire dances and has a crush on his neighbor in Disney’s live action version of “Lilo & Stitch.” The movie, which was filmed on Oʻahu, is set to debut in theaters on May 23.

ASD interviews Kaipo Dudoit, an actor in Disney’s live action “Lilo & Stitch”

ASD Staff

Originally found in Hāna, Princess Tip Taps has been waiting more than two years for a forever home.

Princess tip taps

Adopt-a-Pet Maui May 29, 2025: Princess Tip Taps has her very own dance

Cream Puff is hearing impaired but has a big heart, say Maui Humane Society.

Cream Puff

Adopt-a-Pet May 23, 2025: Maui's Cream Puff seeks home

"With his bright smile ad big heart, Batman is sure to show you the true meaning of true companionship," said the Hawaiian Humane Society. "Could your home be his new Batcave?"

5 16 2025 Batman

Adopt-a-Pet May 20, 2025: I'm Batman, your trusted companion

According to the Hawaiian Humane Society, "She is a dog with a heart as big as her personality, always ready to make you laugh."

5 15 2025 Noelani

Adopt-a-Pet May 19, 2025: Noelani makes even the gloomiest days brighter

"With soulful brown eyes, adorable speckled ears and a playful energy, Belle is every bit as beautiful as her name implies," the Hawaiian Humane Society said.

5 14 2025 Belle

Adopt-a-Pet May 16, 2025: 'I want adventure in the great wide somewhere!' — Belle

She's "a 5-year-old sweetheart who’s been patiently waiting for [her] forever ‘ohana for over a year now," the Maui-based nonprofit said.

Celine

Adopt-a-Pet May 15, 2025: Celine from Maui Humane Society has all you need

"Her playful energy and affectionate nature make her the perfect match for active individuals or families looking for a fun-loving companion," says the Hawaiian Humane Society.

5 13 2025 Nyla

Adopt-a-Pet May 14: Nyla, a goofy gal who loves a good treat

The Hawaiian Humane Society said, "Snuggles is a recipient of the Reid Krucky Memorial Fund, which means his adoption fee is waived and he will be going home with a special adoption package filled with goodies to help him settle in with his new ʻohana."

5 12 2025 Snuggles

Adopt-a-Pet May 13, 2025: Meet Snuggles, an affectionate pooch that loves to play fetch

This "tri-pawd" pooch is a joy on leash walks and can't wait to find a peaceful home where she can receive the love and attention she deserves, the Hawaiian Humane Society said.

Willow 5 9 2025

Adopt-a-Pet May 12, 2025: Graceful Willow wants to flourish

"This sweet girl is just waiting for the right person to 'un-leash' her heart," says the Hawaiian Humane Society.

Toni 5 8 2025

Adopt-a-Pet May, 9, 2025: Meet Toni, a cute couch potato who loves a good adventure

This 2-year-old Pit Bull Terrier mix is the perfect companion, according to Hawaiian Humane Society.

Lola 5 7 2025

Adopt-a-Pet May 8, 2025: Lola looks for her forever home

Princess of Genovia is Maui Humane Society's Pet of the Week. Learn more about this playful pup with a royal personality.

Princess Of Genovia

Adopt-a-Pet May 7, 2025: Introducing her majesty, Princess of Genovia

"Ember will always greet you with a happy smile and a wagging tail – she only asks for love, treats and plenty of belly rubs in return," says Hawaiian Humane Society.

Ember 5 6 2025

Adopt-a-Pet May 6, 2025: Let Ember warm your heart

"This handsome boy’s smile is brighter than the sun," says Hawaiian Humane Society.

El Pollo 5 5 2025

Adopt-a-Pet May 5, 2025: Say hello to El Pollo, 'the life of the party'

This 4-year-old Terrier mix is eager to keep learning and add to his repertoire.

Ralphie 5 2 2025

Adopt-a-Pet May 2, 2025: Ralphie knows tricks like 'sit'

Miracle is a 42-pound, 5-year-old Hound mix, who is sweet and affectionate with everyone she encounters.

Miracle 5 1 2025

Adopt-a-Pet May 1, 2025: Miracle is resilient and curious

Kau'i Boy is "a 4-year-old pup with a big heart and an even bigger love for adventure," MHS said.

Kaui boy 1

Adopt-a-Pet April 30, 2025: Kau'i Boy, the explorer, from Maui Humane Society

According to Hawaiian Humane Society, this pup will keep you entertained with his hilarious zoomies to show you just how happy he is — tail-wagging and all.

Engky 4 30 2025

Adopt-a-Pet April 30, 2025: Engky has an 'endless zest for life'

This cuddly American Pit Bull Terrier mix is up for adoption at the Hawaiian Humane Society’s Mōʻiliʻili Campus.

Mama Mia 4 29 2025

Adopt-a-Pet April 29, 2025: Take a chance on Mama Mia

"He’s a smart pup who thrives on treats while learning new skills," says Hawaiian Humane Society.

Bam Bam 4 25 2025

Adopt-a-Pet April 28, 2025: BamBam, who loves beach days

"Like his namesake, Burger is extremely food-motivated," says the Hawaiian Humane Society.

Burger 4252025

Adopt-a-Pet April 25, 2025: Pup named Burger loves to eat

Meet your ultimate companion, Jeffrey, at the Hawaiian Humane Society’s Mōʻiliʻili Campus, which is open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Jeffrey 4 24 2025

Adopt-a-Pet April 24, 2025: Joyful Jeffrey needs a home

Charlie is trained to walk on a leash and has a blast running free in the yard. MHS is looking for an ‘ohana that will show Charlie the kind, patient love he's been waiting for.

Charlile

Adopt-a-Pet April 23, 2025: How sweet is chocolate-eared Charlie from Maui Humane Society

If you’re looking for a loyal and loving companion, she can’t wait to meet you at the Hawaiian Humane Society’s Kosasa Family Campus at Hoʻopili.