With 'Lilo & Stitch's journey to live-action, at least one character didn't return from the original 2002 Disney animated film.

Stitch has become an unlikely star among Disney’s characters. The blue alien is so popular that he ranks in the top 10 bestselling Disney franchises, alongside stalwarts such as Mickey and Minnie Mouse, the princesses, Star Wars and Marvel, the company said.

Step aside, Moana, Elsa and Simba. In recent years, Stitch has quietly become one of Disney’s most popular — and most merchandised — characters.

A heartbreaking sacrifice and mid-credits scene give weight to the live-action "Lilo & Stitch," which makes major changes from the Disney original.