Maia Kealoha is a 9-year-old Native Hawaiian child actress who rose to international recognition in 2025 after starring as Lilo in Disney’s highly anticipated live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch. With her breakout role, Kealoha didn’t just win hearts — she made history as the youngest Native Hawaiian lead in a major Disney production.
In a year full of reboots and rising young talent, Maia’s performance stood out for its sincerity, emotional range, and cultural authenticity. Critics and fans alike praised her for bringing Lilo to life with remarkable depth, while hashtags like #MaiaKealoha and #RealLifeLilo trended across platforms. Entertainment Weekly even described her portrayal as “the heart of the film.”
Now a rising icon in both Hollywood and her home state of Hawaii, Maia Kealoha’s story is one of cultural pride, grounded upbringing, and undeniable talent — and it’s only just beginning.
Early Life and Education of Maia Kealoha
Maia Kealoha was born in 2016 in Honolulu, Hawaii. As of 2025, she is 9 years old. Though her full birth date has not been officially confirmed, it is believed she was born in the spring, making her zodiac sign either Taurus or Gemini.
She comes from a culturally rich Native Hawaiian background, and her family has deep ancestral roots in the islands. Raised in a close-knit community, Maia grew up with traditional Hawaiian values — respect for elders, love for the land (aloha ʻāina), and a strong connection to local heritage. According to a family friend interviewed by KITV Island News:
“Maia’s family made sure she stayed grounded. She’s been raised with traditional values — love for the land, respect for elders, and a strong sense of community.”
Her Native Hawaiian ethnicity played a pivotal role in her casting as Lilo, as Disney specifically prioritized cultural authenticity in the remake.
Currently standing at around 4 feet 3 inches and weighing approximately 55 pounds, Maia is an energetic and expressive child actress whose presence on screen feels both vibrant and sincere.
As of now, Maia Kealoha is enrolled in elementary school on the island of Oahu. While filming, she continues her education with private tutors — a common practice for child actors — and her family has chosen not to disclose her school’s name for safety and privacy.
Maia Kealoha’s Personal Life & Family Values
As a minor, Maia Kealoha’s personal life is rightfully kept private and protected by her parents and legal team. She does not operate her own social media accounts; however, there is an official Instagram page (@maia.kealoha.official) run by her team, which shares safe, family-approved updates and behind-the-scenes moments from her projects.
She is currently single, of course, and any speculation about her personal relationships is strictly off-limits. Her public image is carefully managed to reflect her youthful innocence, creative spirit, and cultural pride.
In a 2024 local interview, her mother was quoted as saying:
“Our job is to protect her childhood. Acting is what she does, not who she is.”
She often participates in local Hawaiian events, including cultural festivals and community service projects. Her family continues to reside in Oahu, and they maintain a relatively quiet lifestyle away from the glare of Los Angeles, commuting only when necessary for filming.
Maia Kealoha’s Career: From Hula Dancer to Disney Star
Maia Kealoha’s acting career began not on the big screen, but in the heart of her Hawaiian community. Long before her Hollywood debut, she participated in local hula competitions, school plays, and children’s pageants — activities that shaped her natural stage presence and confidence.
In 2022, Disney announced an open casting call in Hawaii for the live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch. The studio specifically sought Native Hawaiian child actresses for the lead role. Maia’s audition, which included a heartfelt hula dance and dialogue in both English and Hawaiian Pidgin, immediately set her apart from thousands of hopefuls.
In March 2023, The Hollywood Reporter confirmed that Maia Kealoha had officially been cast as Lilo. Her selection was praised by critics and audiences alike as a culturally respectful move, aligning with Disney’s renewed commitment to authentic representation in its remakes.
Director Dean Fleischer Camp told Variety:
“The moment Maia walked in, we knew we found our Lilo. She had the spunk, the heart, and most importantly — the soul of the character.”
Following the announcement, Maia quickly rose to fame. She was featured in major outlets like People, E! News, and made a virtual appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show in a special segment about child actors.
As of 2025, Maia Kealoha is considered one of the most promising young stars in Hollywood. Her management team has confirmed ongoing discussions with major studios. She is rumored to be in talks for a lead role in an upcoming streaming series — a project expected to be announced later this year.
Maia Kealoha’s Net Worth, Salary, and Lifestyle in 2025
As of 2025, Maia Kealoha’s estimated net worth is reported to be between $100,000 to $300,000, primarily based on her Disney contract, brand endorsements, and appearance fees.
Her income sources include her acting salary from Lilo & Stitch, which is reportedly in the low six-figure range for a lead child role. Additionally, Maia earns through endorsements from kid-friendly and culturally conscious brands, as well as through appearances at red carpets, press events, and fan conventions.
Unlike many child stars, Maia does not flaunt a lavish lifestyle. Her public presence is modest and grounded. She wears local Hawaiian designers and is often seen in traditional clothing at cultural events. Her parents have not moved to Hollywood, and instead keep their life rooted in Hawaii.
According to a family friend speaking to Pacific Island News:
“They’re not chasing stardom. They’re nurturing a legacy.”
There is no record of lavish purchases or unnecessary extravagance. Her family appears committed to managing her career in a balanced, age-appropriate way, with a focus on longevity over spotlight.
Quick Facts: Who is Maia Kealoha?
Maia Kealoha is a 9-year-old Native Hawaiian actress who made global headlines as the star of Disney’s 2025 Lilo & Stitch live-action remake. With deep roots in Hawaiian culture, a grounded upbringing, and a breakout performance praised by critics and fans alike, Maia is now one of the most promising young faces in film. She represents more than just a Hollywood debut — she’s a cultural milestone.
Frequently Asked Questions Of Maia Kealoha
How old is Maia Kealoha in 2025?
Maia Kealoha is 9 years old as of 2025.
What is Maia Kealoha famous for?
She is best known for playing Lilo in the live-action Disney remake of Lilo & Stitch (2025).
Where is Maia Kealoha from?
She was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Is Maia Kealoha on Instagram?
Yes, she has an official account managed by her team: @maia.kealoha.official
What is Maia Kealoha’s ethnicity?
She is Native Hawaiian.
What is Maia Kealoha’s net worth in 2025?
Her estimated net worth is between $100,000 to $300,000.
Does Maia Kealoha have siblings?
No verified public information has been released about her siblings.