This spring, The Walt Disney Company builds on powerful momentum from a record-breaking 2025, with an exciting slate that fans across Lucasfilm, Pixar Animation Studios, 20th Century Studios, and Searchlight Pictures won’t want to miss.

Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Zootopia 2 is now the No. 1 domestic release of 2025, also ranking as the No. 1 MPA animated film of all time worldwide. This milestone marks the second consecutive year that The Walt Disney Studios has delivered the top domestic release — and in 2025, Disney claimed three of the top four domestic films overall with Zootopia 2, Lilo & Stitch, and Avatar: Fire and Ash.

That strength extends to streaming. 20th Century Studios’ Predator: Badlands debuted as the No. 1 film premiere on Hulu since Prey, drawing nearly 9 million global views in its first five days across Disney+ and Hulu. In total, audiences have streamed more than 300 million hours of the Predator franchise globally on Disney’s streaming platforms.

Disney enters 2026 on a remarkable run, backed by a daring slate poised to captivate audiences around the world.

Here’s what’s coming to theaters this Spring 2026:

• Disney and Pixar’s Hoppers — March 6
• Searchlight Pictures’ Ready or Not 2: Here I Come — March 20
• 20th Century Studios’ The Devil Wears Prada 2 — May 1
• Lucasfilm’s The Mandalorian and Grogu — May 22

Disney and Pixar’s Hoppers

Release Date: March 6

Disney and Pixar’s next original animated comedy follows a young animal lover who “hops” her consciousness into a robotic beaver to communicate with animals and protect their habitat. The all-star ensemble features the voices of Piper Curda (Mabel), Bobby Moynihan (King George), Jon Hamm (Mayor Jerry), Meryl Streep (Insect Queen), Dave Franco (Titus), Kathy Najimy (Dr. Sam), and more. Hoppers delivers heart, humor, and a wholly original world to fans of all ages.

Searchlight Pictures’ Ready or Not 2: Here I Come

Release Date: March 20

Let the game begin! Moments after surviving an all-out attack from the Le Domas family, Grace (Samara Weaving) discovers she’s reached the next level of the nightmarish game — and this time with her estranged sister Faith (Kathryn Newton) at her side. Grace has one chance to survive, keep her sister alive, and claim the High Seat of the Council that controls the world. Four rival families are hunting her for the throne, and whoever wins rules it all. The unpredictable sequel raises the stakes on the deadly game that made the first film a breakout hit. Radio Silence’s Ready or Not 2 also stars Sarah Michelle Gellar, Shawn Hatosy, Néstor Carbonell, with David Cronenberg, and Elijah Wood.

20th Century Studios’ The Devil Wears Prada 2

Release Date: May 1

The Devil Wears Prada 2? This spring? Groundbreaking. After two decades, Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, and Stanley Tucci return to the fashionable streets of New York City and the sleek offices of Runway Magazine in the eagerly awaited sequel to the 2006 phenomenon that defined a generation.

Lucasfilm’s The Mandalorian and Grogu

Release Date: May 22

After more than 6 years since Star Wars was in theaters, the galaxy’s favorite duo is about to make their debut on the big screen. When dangerous warlords threaten a peaceful galaxy, the New Republic calls upon legendary Mandalorian bounty hunter Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal) and his young apprentice Grogu to protect everything the Rebellion fought for. Directed by Jon Favreau, The Mandalorian and Grogu also stars Sigourney Weaver and Jeremy Allen White and is produced by Jon Favreau, Kathleen Kennedy, Dave Filoni, and Ian Bryce, with music composed by Ludwig Göransson.

Following a record-setting year in theaters, Disney’s 2026 lineup raises the bar with fresh storytelling, fan-favorite worlds, and big-screen experiences designed to bring audiences together.

This summer, Disney and Pixar return with Toy Story 5 on June 19, followed by Disney Live Action’s highly anticipated reimagining of Moana on July 10. Searchlight Pictures keeps the energy high with the comedy Super Troopers 3 on August 7, before 20th Century Studios closes out the blockbuster season with Ridley Scott’s The Dog Stars on August 28.

The Walt Disney Company has won 22 Children’s & Family Emmy^® Awards across its content brands and studios: Disney Branded Television and The Walt Disney Studios (including Lucasfilm, Marvel Animation, National Geographic, and Pixar Animation Studios). Disney+ is the ultimate streaming destination for kids and families, home to 21 awards.

Descendants: Rise of Red and Win or Lose tied for the most wins, with five each, while Star Wars: Skeleton Crew — this year’s most-nominated program — won Outstanding Young Teen Series.

A complete list of all The Walt Disney Company wins follows:

Descendants: The Rise of Red (Disney+/Disney Channel/Disney Branded Television)
Streaming on Disney+
5 Wins

• Outstanding Fiction Special
• Outstanding Art Direction / Set Decoration / Scenic Design
• Outstanding Hairstyling and Makeup
• Outstanding Original Song for a Children’s or Young Teen Program – “Red Christmas”
• Outstanding Choreography

Win or Lose (Disney+/Pixar Animation Studios)
Streaming on Disney+
5 Wins

• Outstanding Children’s or Young Teen Animated Series
• Outstanding Writing for a Children’s or Young Teen Animated Series – “Pickle”
• Outstanding Directing for an Animated Series – “Home”
• Outstanding Editing for an Animated Program – “Mixed Signals”
• Outstanding Individual Achievement in Animation – Storyboard – Esteban Bravo, Storyboard Artist

Star Wars: Skeleton Crew (Disney+/Lucasfilm)
Streaming on Disney+
4 Wins

• Outstanding Young Teen Series
• Outstanding Editing for a Young Teen Live Action Program – “The Real Good Guys”
• Outstanding Sound Mixing and Sound Editing for a Live Action Program – “You Have a Lot to Learn About Pirates”
• Outstanding Visual Effects for a Live Action Program

A Real Bug’s Life (National Geographic)
Streaming on Disney+
2 Wins

• Outstanding Informational Program
• Outstanding Editing for a Preschool or Children’s Live Action Program – “Love in the Forest”

BUNK’D: Learning the Ropes (Disney Channel/Disney Branded Television)
Streaming on Hulu
1 Win

• Outstanding Cinematography and Technical Arts for a Multiple Camera Live Action Program – “Happy Trails”

Dream Productions (Disney+/Pixar Animation Studios)
Streaming on Disney+
1 Win

• Outstanding Casting for an Animated Program

Rise Up, Sing Out (Disney Jr./Disney Branded Television)
Streaming on Disney+
1 Win

• Outstanding Original Song for a Preschool Program – “Grow Your World”

RoboGobo (Disney Jr./Disney Branded Television)
Streaming on Disney+
1 Win

• Outstanding Voice Performer in a Preschool Program – Ana Gasteyer

Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures (Disney+/Lucasfilm/Disney Jr.)
Streaming on Disney+
1 Win

• Outstanding Sound Mixing and Sound Editing for a Preschool Animated Program – “The Battle of Tenoo”

Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man (Disney+/Marvel Animation)
Streaming on Disney+
1 Win

• Outstanding Voice Directing for an Animated Series – “If This Be My Destiny…”

Coming April 29, 2026, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Resort will welcome an expanded timeline that introduces classic, iconic characters — such as Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker — alongside new narrative layers in the award-winning land. These updates will enable guests to experience the classic-era storytelling spanning Return of the Jedi, The Mandalorian, and Ahsoka.

Developed through close collaboration among Walt Disney Imagineering, Disney Live Entertainment, Disneyland, and Lucasfilm, this evolution marks a bold new chapter in how guests step into the Star Wars galaxy.

Extra care was taken in crafting an expanded story for the land as engaging and authentic as the films and streaming series, because, as Asa Kalama, Executive, Creative & Interactive Experiences at Walt Disney Imagineering, explained, “Your first experience with Star Wars might be a film, but it honestly might also be a theme park experience.”

“A Platform for Storytelling”

“Since the very inception of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, we envisioned it as a platform for storytelling,” Kalama noted.

Upon opening in 2019, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge immediately transported guests to Black Spire Outpost on Batuu — a trading port alive with adventure, resistance activity, and the unmistakable hum of starships overhead.

But, the stories within Black Spire Outpost didn’t need to remain static.

“One of the great things about the Star Wars universe and the Star Wars canon is that it is expansive and it continues to grow.”

So, as new Star Wars stories are released across film and television — such as with Lucasfilm’s The Mandalorian and Grogu on May 22 — the concept of expanding the story of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge has developed into an abundance of creative opportunities.

As Kalama states, Disney’s unique ability to bring stories on screen to life in physical environments, “allows us to continue to expand the storytelling and the world building.”

And not only are there new stories to incorporate, but the franchise will also be celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2027, which will include a rerelease of the film that started it all, Star Wars: A New Hope.

Given these upcoming moments celebrating the entire breadth of the Star Wars saga, “There was this sort of critical mass of more classic leaning characters, and it felt like the right time to celebrate those in the land as well,” Kalama stated.

Disneyland is celebrating these moments with more than just an expanded timeline at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Starting the same day The Mandalorian and Grogu arrives in theaters, guests will also be able to team up with Din Djarin and Grogu on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run at both Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, showcasing Disney’s unrivaled ability to simultaneously bring stories to fans across linear and experiential storytelling.

A Deep Collaboration with Lucasfilm

Every detail — visual, written, structural, and sonic — has been developed in close partnership with Lucasfilm.

“Since the very beginning, we’ve had the most incredible integrated and blended team with Lucasfilm,” Kalama said.

Rather than Imagineering ideating and then sending proposals to Lucasfilm for approval, the collaboration functioned as true co-creation between the units. “It was the same writing team, the same production design team — everybody was working together,” he explained.

That partnership was especially essential when expanding the land’s timeline.

“We spent a lot of time on every last possible detail,” Kalama noted, ensuring the meticulously crafted original story remained cohesive as it expanded.

The timeline evolution goes far beyond the introduction of beloved characters such as Princess Leia and Han Solo. From architecture and props to background dialogue, Imagineering revisited myriad story cues to ensure alignment with the expanded eras.

As a result, guests will step into a land that “feels refreshed and full of new elements for guests to discover,” according to Kalama.

Key Updates Coming to the Land

• Revitalized Locations and Expanded Backstories
  Several in-land locations will be reimagined to better reflect the broader Star Wars canon. First Order Cargo, will be rethemed as Black Spire Surplus, and will feature artifacts from both the Empire and the Rebel Alliance.
• New Artifacts and Screen-Used Props
  Speaking of artifacts, at Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities, the expanded timeline will unlock new treasures. Working closely with Lucasfilm, Imagineering is curating authentic, screen-used props from recent streaming series, further grounding the land in the on-screen saga. As Kalama puts it, the props “literally came directly off the screen.”
• An All-New Sonic Landscape
  Music — long central to Star Wars storytelling — will also evolve. Guests will hear a new celebratory soundscape that includes themes from John Williams’ iconic scores from the first six films, adding emotional depth throughout the land. “I think it will take on a different emotional resonance for fans,” Kalama said.

A Park Experience Only Disney Can Deliver

The timeline expansion underscores something uniquely Disney: the ability to bring evolving stories on screen into fully immersive physical environments.

Kalama described Disney as one of the few entertainment companies capable of delivering both linear media and experiential storytelling at this scale.

Through Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, guests don’t just witness the saga — they step inside it.

“The theme park is about embodying a character and truly living the story through your own eyes,” Kalama said.

While the updated timeline will debut only at Disneyland Resort, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Walt Disney World Resort will continue to celebrate the sequel era throughout the land — giving fans distinct ways to experience the saga on each coast.

“Our guests now have two different experiences on either coast where they can explore the full breadth of the canon,” Kalama said.

East Coast guests can engage with stories inspired by The Force Awakens (which takes place during the Rise of the First Order) and beyond, while West Coast fans can immerse themselves in eras of the Galactic Civil War and the New Republic, as well as the Age of the Resistance and the First Order.

Ultimately, the evolution of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge reflects a broader Imagineering philosophy: attractions don’t just bring stories to life — they extend them.

Disney parks exist, Kalama notes, “in the business of creating emotion and memories.” And beginning in late April, guests will discover a reimagined Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge that feels both timeless — and new.

In a collaboration that bridges generations and fandoms, Disney, Lucasfilm, and GoNoodle are joining forces to bring the world of Star Wars to classrooms, living rooms, and learning spaces across the country through short, engaging content that blends movement and mindfulness.

Designed to help kids refocus, move, and build healthy habits, this new initiative blends GoNoodle’s beloved developmental programming with the iconic characters and stories of Star Wars — launching a playful, educational adventure that parents and teachers can access anytime, anywhere.

“At Disney and Lucasfilm, we believe great stories spark curiosity and creativity. Bringing Star Wars into the GoNoodle platform lets kids experience the characters and stories they love in a way that’s active, joyful, and meaningful,” Jeff Benjenk, Vice President of Brand Marketing at The Walt Disney Company, said. “Together, we’re giving families and educators simple tools they can rely on to inspire movement, mindfulness, and imagination every day.”

Making Mindfulness Fun with the Force

The debut video in the series features none other than Grogu, one of the most beloved characters in the Star Wars galaxy. In this short, Grogu guides children through a mindful breathing exercise — inviting them to slow down and center themselves using Jedi training tricks.

“Grogu embodies the qualities we want every child to build: curiosity, balance, and kindness, making him a natural fit for GoNoodle’s mission to transform how mindfulness shows up in classrooms and school communities,” KC Estenson, CEO of GoNoodle, said.

This video helps kids practice important developmental skills like self-regulation, focus, and healthy daily habits. This program was developed with an understanding of the roles that movement and mindfulness play in helping kids to regulate and optimize student learning — two of the core principles that GoNoodle was founded on.

The video will be freely available on GoNoodle’s website on a designated Star Wars channel as well as on YouTube, ensuring that teachers and parents can integrate it effortlessly into routines at school or at home.

“Through the new Star Wars channel, mindfulness content, and curriculum-paired activity, we’re equipping educators with trusted tools that help students focus, settle, and find their balance in ways that feel joyful and familiar,” Estenson said. “By weaving mindfulness into movement and play, we’re helping kids build emotional regulation skills they can carry with them for a lifetime.”

This partnership brings together two brands that families know and trust. For nearly a decade, Disney and GoNoodle have worked side by side to create memorable content rooted in movement, joy, and developmental support for young learners. This latest collaboration builds on that relationship by introducing the legendary Star Wars characters and stories to a new generation in a way that is energetic and educational, encouraging connection between young fans and the stories their parents and teachers grew up loving.

A Galaxy Reimagined for the Classroom and Living Room

Teachers have long relied on GoNoodle’s activities to support transitions, reenergize students, or help them reset between lessons. This new collaboration is crafted to make those moments even more captivating — helping young learners stay engaged while building the social-emotional skills that will stay with them throughout their lives.

At home, Grogu can help kids refocus their energy as they come back from school, finish homework, get ready for dinner, or even prepare for bedtime. This effort also highlights Disney’s commitment to storytelling that supports children’s development — infusing familiar characters into platforms that nurture creativity, calm, and confidence.

This first video marks only the beginning. Star Wars and GoNoodle are planning additional content drops all year long, expanding the collaboration with more characters, more movement, and more opportunities for kids to practice Jedi skills. Parents, educators, and fans can expect additional playful, purpose-driven programming that showcases the vibrant world of Star Wars in new and meaningful ways.

The initiative arrives at an exciting moment in the Star Wars universe as anticipation builds for The Mandalorian & Grogu, premiering May 22, 2026, where Grogu’s journey continues alongside the legendary bounty hunter Din Djarin. Starting on May 22, guests will also be able to team up with Grogu and Din Djarin on Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at both Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort.

Kathleen Kennedy to Step Down as Lucasfilm President and Return to Full-Time Producing

Dave Filoni to Lead Lucasfilm as President and Chief Creative Officer Alongside Lynwen Brennan as Co-President

The Walt Disney Studios announced today that, after nearly 14 years of leading Lucasfilm, President Kathleen Kennedy is stepping down from her role and will transition back to full-time producing, including the studio’s upcoming feature films The Mandalorian and Grogu and Star Wars: Starfighter. Going forward, Dave Filoni will take on creative leadership of Lucasfilm as President and Chief Creative Officer, Lucasfilm, and Lynwen Brennan will serve as Co-President, Lucasfilm, with each having held senior executive roles at the studio for more than 15 years. The two will report to Disney Entertainment Co-Chairman Alan Bergman, and their close collaboration will carry Lucasfilm into its next chapter of storytelling, with a strong foundation of creative vision and operational leadership guiding the studio forward.

“When we acquired Lucasfilm more than a decade ago, we knew we were bringing into the Disney family not only one of the most beloved and enduring storytelling universes ever created, but also a team of extraordinary talent led by a visionary filmmaker – someone who had been handpicked by George Lucas himself, no less,” said Bob Iger, Chief Executive Officer, The Walt Disney Company. “We’re deeply grateful for Kathleen Kennedy’s leadership, her vision, and her stewardship of such an iconic studio and brand.”

“Kathleen Kennedy has been a tremendous force in the industry for 50 years, and it’s been our privilege to have her here at Disney leading Lucasfilm for nearly 14 of them,” said Bergman. “She has steered Star Wars to incredible box office heights and brought a new generation of fans into the fold. We appreciate having her on board to produce our next couple of films, and the studio remains in extraordinarily capable hands with Dave Filoni, who’s a brilliant storyteller, and Lynwen Brennan, an avid innovator and business leader. They are deeply passionate and experienced executives who will continue to drive the studio and Star Wars forward in exciting new directions.”

“When George Lucas asked me to take over Lucasfilm upon his retirement, I couldn’t have imagined what lay ahead,” said Kennedy. “It has been a true privilege to spend more than a decade working alongside the extraordinary talent at Lucasfilm. Their creativity and dedication have been an inspiration, and I’m deeply proud of what we’ve accomplished together. I’m excited to continue developing films and television with both longtime collaborators and fresh voices who represent the future of storytelling.”

“My love of storytelling was shaped by the films of Kathleen Kennedy and George Lucas,” said Filoni. “I never dreamed I would be privileged to learn the craft of filmmaking from both of them. From Rey to Grogu, Kathy has overseen the greatest expansion in Star Wars storytelling onscreen that we have ever seen. I am incredibly grateful to Kathy, George, Bob Iger, and Alan Bergman for their trust and the opportunity to lead Lucasfilm in this new role, doing a job I truly love. May the Force be with you.”

“Lucasfilm has played such a meaningful part in my life,” said Brennan. “It’s a community of inspiring storytellers with a rebel spirit like no other, and I am honored to join Dave Filoni in leading us forward. I have been so fortunate to learn from George Lucas, Kathy Kennedy, and Alan Bergman and have unwavering faith in Dave’s creative vision for the next chapter in this storied studio’s legacy.”

Filoni joined Lucasfilm in 2005 and has played a pivotal role in shaping the creative direction of the Star Wars universe. Working closely with George Lucas, Filoni was instrumental in establishing the company’s animation studio and has since expanded the franchise into new and compelling territory. His storytelling contributions span acclaimed series such as Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Rebels, and The Mandalorian, earning multiple Emmy Awards and nominations. Filoni currently serves as showrunner for Ahsoka, now in production for its second season, and is teaming with Jon Favreau on The Mandalorian and Grogu.

Brennan has been with Lucasfilm since 1999, beginning at Industrial Light & Magic where she rose through the ranks to become its leader in 2009. She was appointed General Manager of Lucasfilm in 2015 and President & General Manager of Lucasfilm Business in 2024. During her tenure, she has guided the company through transformative technological shifts with a clear strategic vision and a commitment to innovation, and her industry leadership has been recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Visual Effects Society and the honor of Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire.

Since being named head of Lucasfilm in 2012, Kennedy has guided a new era of storytelling, expanding Star Wars and Indiana Jones while championing bold creative directions and exciting new voices. She oversaw the record-shattering release of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, the first in a new trilogy of billion-dollar Skywalker Saga films, as well as Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, which also grossed over $1 billion worldwide and led to the creation of the Emmy-winning Andor series. She also led Lucasfilm’s foray into live-action Star Wars series, including three seasons of The Mandalorian as well as Obi-Wan Kenobi, Ahsoka, and others, alongside popular animated shows such as Star Wars: The Bad Batch and Star Wars: Visions. Kennedy is currently producing the feature film The Mandalorian and Grogu and director Shawn Levy’s Star Wars: Starfighter, set for theatrical release in 2026 and 2027, respectively.

As Kennedy transitions back to producing, broadening her portfolio with new collaborations across genres and platforms, she builds on a remarkable 50-year career as one of the most accomplished producers in film history. As co-founder of Amblin Entertainment with Steven Spielberg and Frank Marshall, she helped bring to life iconic films including E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Jurassic Park, Back to the Future, Schindler’s List, The Sixth Sense, and Lincoln. Her 70+ films have earned 25 Academy Awards® among more than 120 nominations, along with billions at the global box office. She was honored with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ coveted Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award in 2018 and the Producers Guild of America’s Milestone Award in 2022.

Today, to mark the start of production on Star Wars: Starfighter, Lucasfilm has announced the full cast for the upcoming feature film from Shawn Levy. Joining the previously announced Ryan Gosling, the film stars Flynn Gray, Matt Smith, Mia Goth, Aaron Pierre, Simon Bird, Jamael Westman, Daniel Ings, and Amy Adams.

Star Wars: Starfighter is an all-new standalone adventure. The film, which has begun production, is an entirely original story set in a period of time never before explored in Star Wars. Starfighter will be released theatrically May 28, 2027.

“I feel a profound sense of excitement and honor as we begin production on Star Wars: Starfighter,” says filmmaker Shawn Levy. “From the day Kathy Kennedy called me up, inviting me to develop an original adventure in this incredible Star Wars galaxy, this experience has been a dream come true, creatively and personally. Star Wars shaped my sense of what story can do, how characters and cinematic moments can live with us forever. To join this storytelling galaxy with such brilliant collaborators onscreen and off, is the thrill of a lifetime.”

Directed by Shawn Levy, the film is produced by Levy and Kathleen Kennedy. Executive producers are Ryan Gosling, Dan Levine, Mary McLaglen, and Josh McLaglen. The script is by Jonathan Tropper.

Darth Vader, the infamous villain from Star Wars, appeared in Fortnite on Friday in an entirely new way as a conversational AI-experience, powered by the iconic voice of Disney Legend James Earl Jones.

In close consultation with the family of James Earl Jones (who passed away last year), Disney, and Lucasfilm, Epic Games used groundbreaking AI technology to allow fans to interact with this renowned character in ways that wouldn’t otherwise be possible.

“James Earl felt that the voice of Darth Vader was inseparable from the story of Star Wars, and he always wanted fans of all ages to continue to experience it,” the family of James Earl Jones said. “We hope that this collaboration with Fortnite will allow both longtime fans of Darth Vader and newer generations to share in the enjoyment of this iconic character.”

Epic Games and Disney have worked together to thoughtfully develop this innovative feature with a strong focus on transparency, consent, and safety — ensuring that creators, Disney IP, and players are protected in interactive experiences.

“James Earl Jones’ legendary vocal performance is a defining element of what makes Darth Vader one of the most iconic characters in cinematic history,” Sean Shoptaw, EVP, Disney Games and Digital Entertainment, said. “Disney, Lucasfilm, and Epic Games are honored to bring his voice to Fortnite for millions of players to experience — showcasing how we responsibly embrace emerging technologies to expand storytelling while keeping people at the heart of the creative process.”

“We just launched the most expansive Star Wars collaboration Epic and Disney have ever done, and we are excited to introduce a new and immersive way for players to interact with a legendary Star Wars character,” said Adam Sussman, President of Epic Games. “Now players have a chance to chat in real time with Darth Vader in Fortnite, one of the most memorable characters in cinematic history.”

Players under the age of 13, or below their country’s digital age of consent (whichever is higher), will need parental permission to engage in conversation with the character. When players talk to Vader, Epic Games securely processes the voice audio to generate Vader’s responses, but audio and transcriptions of the conversation are not stored. Players can also report anything Darth Vader says.

To learn more, head to Fortnite.

The Force is strong with Revenge of the Sith at the box office.

This weekend, two decades after its initial theatrical release, Star Wars: Episode III — Revenge of the Sith proved its lasting audience appeal by taking in an estimated $42.2 million at the global box.

Revenge of the Sith — which was re-released Friday in celebration of its 20 anniversary — made an estimated $25.2 million domestically, helping it take the No. 2 spot at the box office. It played in 2,775 domestic theaters, and was shown in several formats, including, for the first time, 4DX. Outside of the U.S., it also played in select theaters within many markets — including Germany (where it opened No. 1), France, Spain, UK, Australia, Brazil, and Mexico — on its way to an estimated $17 million internationally.

This is one of the top-grossing re-release weekends in domestic industry history, playing behind Star Wars: Episode IV — A New Hope ($36 million from the January, 1997 Special Edition release) and The Lion King ($30 million from September, 2011 3D release). Last year, Star Wars: Episode I — The Phantom Menace proved it was still a box office Force by making $14.5 million at the global box office for its 25 anniversary re-release, with $8.1 million coming domestically.

Prior to this weekend, Revenge of the Sith had already earned $850 million globally.

Stars of the film, such as Hayden Christensen and Ewan McGregor, have seen continued success reprising their iconic roles in various Star Wars projects since the initial prequel trilogy was released.

In the Emmy®-nominated limited series Obi-Wan Kenobi on Disney+, McGregor reprised the titular role, with Christensen returning as Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader. Christensen can also be seen as Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader in the Emmy®-winning Disney+ series Ahsoka.

Christensen and Samuel L. Jackson, who played Mace Windu in the prequel trilogy, surprised fans at a sold-out screening on Friday night at the El Capitan Theatre in downtown Hollywood. The duo was met with rapturous applause by the audience.

Last weekend, Christensen appeared at Star Wars Celebration Japan, the biggest international Star Wars Celebration ever, which was attended by over 105,000 fans from more than 125 countries. At the event, Christensen announced that he would be reprising his role for the second season of Ahsoka, starring alongside Rosario Dawson.

Other news from Star Wars Celebration Japan included major announcements, like an all-new theatrical release — Star Wars: Starfighter, starring Ryan Gosling and directed by Shawn Levy, set to hit theaters May 28, 2027, a new series from Lucasfilm Animation — Maul: Shadow Lord set to debut in 2026, an all-new collaboration between Star Wars and Fortnite, and a new update coming to Millenium Falcon: Smugglers Run at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort on May 22, 2026, the same day The Mandalorian and Grogu is set to hit theaters.

And, there are other exciting Star Wars stories currently available for fans to enjoy, such as the return earlier this week of the critically-acclaimed series Andor to Disney+, which takes place between the events of Revenge of the Sith and Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. There’s also Lucasfilm Animation’s Star Wars: Tales of the Underworld, which is set to debut on Disney+ on the ultimate Star Wars holiday, May the 4.

Revenge of the Sith — written and directed by Star Wars creator George Lucas — takes place years after the onset of the Clone Wars, when the noble Jedi Knights lead a massive clone army into a galaxy-wide battle against the Separatists. When the sinister Sith unveil a thousand-year-old plot to rule the galaxy, the Republic crumbles and from its ashes rises the evil Galactic Empire. Jedi Hero Anakin Skywalker is seduced by the dark side of the Force to become the Emperor’s new apprentice — Darth Vader. The Jedi are decimated, as Obi-Wan Kenobi and Jedi Master Yoda are forced into hiding.

Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith and the entire Star Wars saga is currently streaming on Disney+.

Star Wars Celebration 2025 came to a close last night in Tokyo, after three days of nonstop excitement celebrating Lucasfilm’s impressive slate of major theatrical titles and live action and animated series and specials on Disney+. The weekend featured numerous big announcements, surprise celebrity appearances, and exclusive details and first looks at Lucasfilm’s landmark productions, all of which will continue to deliver unparalleled adventure and entertainment that is truly out of this world.

2025 marks the 16^th occurrence of the bi-annual global event, and this year’s event was the biggest international Star Wars Celebration ever, with over 105,000 guests from 125 countries in attendance, which is an 8 percent increase in overall attendance from the last Celebration, which took place in 2023 in London. It was also the fastest Celebration to sell out. The three-day event, which took place at Makuhari Messe Convention Center in Tokyo, featured 26 hours of programming across the three main stages, and 100 hours of fan panel and podcast content.

The weekend got off to a big start on Friday, with news of an all-new theatrical release set in the Star Wars Galaxy. Lucasfilm’s president Kathleen Kennedy and chief creative officer Dave Filoni brought director Shawn Levy and Ryan Gosling to the stage to discuss Star Wars: Starfighter, an all-new standalone adventure taking place approximately five years after the events of 2019’s Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker. The film, which will begin production this Fall, is an entirely new adventure featuring all-new characters set in a period of time that has not been explored on screen yet. Star Wars: Starfighter will be released theatrically May 28, 2027.

The excitement continued when director/co-writer Jon Favreau took to the stage to talk about Lucasfilm’s highly anticipated theatrical release The Mandalorian and Grogu, set to hit theaters May 22, 2026. Joining him were Kathleen Kennedy, Dave Filoni and the film’s stars, Pedro Pascal, Sigourney Weaver, and Grogu himself, for a brief discussion of what fans can look forward to when the characters from the Emmy Award®-winning Disney+ series bring their biggest adventure yet to the big screen. In the film, the Mandalorian and his young apprentice, Grogu, embark on a thrilling adventure as they travel the galaxy. Behind-the-scenes images and an exclusive first look at the film were shared with the audience.

Friday’s festivities also included a special panel to celebrate Industrial Light & Magic’s contributions to the entertainment industry, as 2025 marks the 50^th anniversary of the groundbreaking visual effects company. The filmmakers from Light & Magic came to the stage to talk about the second season of the acclaimed documentary series, which first premiered in 2022 and is now streaming on Disney+. Lucasfilm’s Light & Magic Season 2 is a three-part series produced by Imagine Documentaries that follows Lucasfilm’s visual effects company, Industrial Light & Magic, as it enters its most challenging and revolutionary period: the dawn of digital. From creating the first fully realized CG character to solving the challenge of digital water, it is an era that finds ILM scaling new heights of innovation despite dramatic setbacks. The director is Joe Johnston, and the executive producers are Brian Grazer, Ron Howard, Justin Wilkes, Sara Bernstein, Joe Johnston, Lawrence Kasdan, Kathleen Kennedy, and Carrie Beck. Jacqui Lopez, Ted Schillinger and Michael Garcia serve as co-executive producers. The series producers are Meredith Kaulfers and Christopher St. John, and Nicole Pusateri is the supervising producer.

Attendees heard from director Joe Johnston and producer Ron Howard via videotaped greetings, and Sam Witwer (voice of Maul) moderated a panel discussion comprised of Ahmed Best (Jar Jar Binks), Lynwen Brennan (president and general manager Lucasfilm Business), Doug Chiang (senior vice president and executive design director, Lucasfilm), Janet Lewin (senior vice president, general manager and head of ILM), John Knoll (ILM executive creative director, senior visual effects supervisor), and Rob Coleman (ILM creative director and senior animation supervisor). Filmmakers then unveiled the trailer and key art.

Also on Friday, a special Lucasfilm Animation Panel to celebrate the 20^th anniversary of the division that created fan-favorite and critically acclaimed shows like Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Star Wars: Rebels, and more. The panel wasmoderated by David Collins and included panelists Dave Filoni and Athena Yvette Portillo (vice president, animation production, Lucasfilm), and surprise guest Sam Witwer (voice of Maul).

Fans were treated to the world-premiere of the first episode of Lucasfilm Animation’s Star Wars: Tales of the Underworld, an all-new anthology series of animated shorts from creator Dave Filoni, which will premiere May 4, 2025, exclusively on Disney+. The popular series, which began in 2022 with Tales of the Jedi and continued in 2024 with Tales of the Empire, this time focuses on the criminal underbelly of the Star Wars galaxy through the experiences of two iconic villains. Former assassin and bounty hunter Asajj Ventress is given a new chance at life and must go on the run with an unexpected new ally, while outlaw Cad Bane faces his past when he confronts an old friend, now a Marshal on the opposite side of the law.

The panel ended with an announcement many fans have been waiting for: a brand-new series from Lucasfilm Animation, this one focusing on Maul: Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord, premiering on Disney+ in 2026, starring Witwer. Guests were then treated to an exclusive first look at the series, and gifted an exclusive Lucasfilm Animation special 20^th anniversary poster.

Later that day, everyone’s favorite Pooba, Nubs, then came to the Star Wars LIVE! stage, where it was announced that the third season of Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures will debut this Fall on Disney+ and Disney Jr.

Set 200 years before Star Wars: The Phantom Menace, during the High Republic era, Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures follows Jedi Younglings Kai Brightstar, Lys Solay, and Nubs, as they study the ways of the Force, learn from Jedi Master Yoda, explore the galaxy, and help citizens and creatures in need. The upcoming episodes will see the Jedi kids embark on a journey into the delightful world of droid care, where they will befriend the lovable and quirky droid owner of a local shop, Dotti, and three adorable new droid friends: Beepers, Dozer, and Gigi.

The day ended with a photo call at Tokyo’s Zojoji Temple featuring Lucasfilm talent and filmmakers, including Kathleen Kennedy, Dave Filoni, Jon Favreau, Pedro Pascal, Sigourney Weaver, Tony Gilroy, Diego Luna, Rosario Dawson, Hayden Christensen, Shawn Levy, and Ryan Gosling, as well as Grogu and the iconic Stormtroopers.

Saturday was devoted to the return of two of Disney+’s most popular series, as well as exciting news about a new LEGO® Star Wars animated project.

Hosts Sascha Boeckle and DJ Taro took to the stage to kick off the day with a thrilling look at the highly anticipated Season 2 of the Emmy®-nominated drama Andor, which returns to Disney+ for its long-awaited conclusion on April 22. The excitement started off with an exclusive look at a recap of Season 1. The duo then welcomed creator/writer/director Tony Gilroy and executive producer and Cassian Andor himself, Diego Luna, to the stage. They were joined by executive producer Sanne Wohlenberg and cast members Genevieve O’Reilly, Denise Gough, Kyle Soller, Adria Arjona, and Alan Tudyk, for a lively discussion of what fans have to look forward to in Season 2.

The 9,000 guests in attendance were treated to a screening of the first episode, followed by an exclusive preview of Season 2, and a special Andor celebration poster.

The second season of Andor takes place as the horizon of war draws near and Cassian becomes a key player in the Rebel Alliance. Everyone will be tested and, as the stakes rise, the betrayals, sacrifices, and conflicting agendas will become profound. Rife with political intrigue and danger, the series is a prequel to Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, which portrayed a heroic band of rebels who steal the plans to the Empire’s weapon of mass destruction — The Death Star — setting the stage for the events of the original 1977 film. Andor sets the clock back five years from the events of Rogue One to tell the story of the film’s hero, Cassian Andor, and his transformation from disinterested, cynical nobody into a rebel hero on his way to an epic destiny. The final season will unfold over 12 episodes broken down into four chapters of three episodes each. The first chapter of Season 2 will premiere April 22, with subsequent chapters debuting each week, exclusively on Disney+.

Also on Saturday, Celebration attendees were treated to an exclusive look back at the first season of Ahsoka with guests Dave Filoni, Jon Favreau, Rosario Dawson, and Hayden Christensen. Panelists shared never-before-seen photography from Season 1 and early production photography from Season 2. Filmmakers officially confirmed that Rory McCann has been cast in the role of fan-favorite character Baylan Skoll, originated by the late Ray Stevenson, and that Hayden Christensen will return as Anakin Skywalker in the upcoming season. The panel ended with an exclusive concept art preview of what audiences can expect from Ahsoka, Season 2, which officially begins production next week.

Later that day at the Star Wars LIVE! Stage, Ahmed Best thrilled attendees with the announcement of a new LEGO Star Wars animated sequel series, LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild Galaxy – Pieces of the Past, and an all-new teaser poster. In Pieces of the Past, a new threat rises in the galaxy, and Sig Greebling and Darth Dev must combine their powers of Force Building and Sith Breaking to stop it. Alongside Jedi Bob, Yesi Scala, and Servo, they will journey into the deepest corners of LEGO Star Wars lore, uncovering pieces of all the galaxies that have come before…

On Sunday, hosts Sascha Boeckle and DJ Taro provided fans a first look at Volume 3 of Star Wars: Visions, which will debut October 29, 2025, exclusively on Disney+, followed by a panel discussion featuring filmmakers from david production, Kamikaze Douga, Kinema citrus Co, Polygon Pictures, Production I.G, Project Studio Q, TRIGGER, and WIT Studio.

Volume 1 of Star Wars: Visions, which premiered in 2021, received an Emmy® nomination for the short, “The Duel.” The Emmy, Lumierre, and Annie Award-winning second volume was released in 2023, and featured shorts by global animation studios, including Aardman, Cartoon Saloon, Triggerfish, and Punkrobot.

With Volume 3, the animated anthology returns to where it all began with nine shorts from nine different anime studios to further demonstrate the diversity and creativity of Japanese animation.

The titles of each studio’s short, the directors, and key details were revealed for all nine shorts:

David Production – “BLACK”

Directed by Shinya Ohira

A psychedelic battle between past and present, light and dark, and life and death plays out in the haunted psyche of an Imperial trooper who is on the cusp of defeat.

Kamikaze Douga + ANIMA – “The Duel: Payback”

Directed by Takanobu Mizuno

With the help of some unexpected allies, Ronin faces off against his greatest foe – a twisted Jedi known as the Grand Master who is bent on revenge.

Kinema Citrus – “The Lost Ones”

Directed by Hitoshi Haga

After assisting refugees escape a natural disaster, an incognito F is forced to confront the ghosts of her past when their refugee ship is intercepted by the Empire.

Kinema Citrus – “Yuko’s Treasure”

Directed by Masaki Tachibana

A sheltered orphan teams with a street rat kid to rescue his droid caregiver and find a long lost treasure.

Polygon Pictures – “The Bird of Paradise”

Directed by Tadahiro Yoshihira

After she is blinded in battle, a hot headed Jedi padawan must undergo a series of spiritual trials in order to overcome the temptation of the Dark Side.

Production I.G – “The Ninth Jedi: Child of Hope”

Directed by Naoyoshi Shiotani

Pursued by Jedi Hunters, and blasted adrift into space, Kara encounters a seemingly abandoned ship tended to by a mysterious droid.

Project Studio Q – “The Song of Four Wings”

Directed by Hiroyasu Kobayashi

A princess-turned-rebel protects a child from the might of the Empire on a snowbound planet.

TRIGGER – “The Smuggler”

Directed by Masahiko Otsuka

A smuggler, desperate for a quick payday, agrees to take on a job to bring a wanted young prince to safety as the Empire pursues.

WIT Studio – “The Bounty Hunter”

Directed by Junichi Yamamoto

A rogue bounty hunter takes on a job for a shady industrialist that has unexpected consequences for her and her droid.

While complete cast details have not been announced, an exclusive sizzle was screened for fans in room (and on the Star Wars LIVE! Stream), which featured the voices of Ami Maeshima, Yasuko Hatori, Takako Honda, Yume Miyamoto, Makoto Koichi, and Chinatsu Akasaki from the Original Language cast, and George Takei, Sonoya Mizuno, Nick Kishiyama, Lincoln Bonilla, Jimmie Yamaguchi, Mike Bodie, and Stephanie Hsu from the English dub.

The day ended with an announcement from James Waugh, Lucasfilm’s senior vice president, franchise content and strategy, who also serves as an executive producer on Star Wars: Visions, that the series will continue with the creation of an all-new banner Star Wars: Visions Presents, which will be used to tell longer-form Star Wars: Visions stories. Kenji Kamiyama, who directed The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim, joined Waugh on stage to announce the first title to be released under the new banner: Star Wars: Visions Presents – The Ninth Jedi. Kamiyama will serve as supervising director of the limited series, which will continue the story of Lah Kara that first debuted in Star Wars: Visions, Volume 1. Star Wars: Visions Presents – The Ninth Jedi, a new Star Wars: Visions Presents limited series, will premiere on Disney+ in 2026.

Be sure to check out the 20^th anniversary release of Lucasfilm’s Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith, in theaters on April 25. The film will run in U.S. theaters and select international territories for one week only, and will be available in several formats, including, for the first time, 4DX. Tickets are on sale everywhere tickets are sold.

This weekend, over 100,000 fans from more than 125 countries are gathering for Star Wars Celebration Japan 2025. The sold-out, three-day event is a unique opportunity for fans to convene around the nearly 50-year-old iconic and beloved franchise.

Fans will have access to first-hand panels with creative talent, opportunities to meet the stars of their favorite Star Wars movies and shows — such as Diego Luna (Cassian Andor), Rosario Dawson (Ahsoka Tano), Hayden Christensen (Anakin Skywalker), and many others — and be able to immerse themselves in the galaxy far, far away.

Not to mention, they’ll be able to get all the latest Star Wars news and updates, such as the release date of Star Wars: Starfighter and the Season 2 trailer for Light & Magic.

Star Wars Celebration has taken place all over the world since its beginnings in 1999. But, for the second time, it’s landing in Japan, a nation that has “a very special symbiotic relationship” with the Star Wars franchise, according to Carol Choi, EVP, APAC Integrated Marketing & Japan Managing Director at Disney.

“Japan’s rich storytelling, history, art, and popular culture have influenced Star Wars for nearly 50 years, and Star Wars has made its own mark in Japanese storytelling,” Choi said.

Central to the Saga

Japanese popular culture, history, and cinema had a deep influence on George Lucas as he embarked on creating Star Wars. Lucas famously drew from samurai films like Akira Kurosawa’s The Hidden Fortress to influence a narrative structure and character archetypes for Star Wars. And of course, Darth Vader’s imposing helmet found part of its origin in historic samurai armor.

“Elements like the Jedi, modeled after samurai, and the spiritual aspects of the Force, influenced by Bushido, highlight the profound impact of Japanese culture on the series,” Choi explained. “There is so much love and respect amongst Lucasfilm executives and creators towards Japanese creators, films, anime, and manga, as we will undoubtedly experience at the Celebration this year.”

Lucas Seastrom, Historian at Lucasfilm, noted that this influence continues to this day, “with series like Star Wars: The Clone Wars evoking elements of the Godzilla films or The Mandalorian taking inspiration from Japanese manga.”

Not only has Japan influenced Star Wars, but the success of Star Wars has created a feedback loop to Japanese storytelling

“The success and popularity of Star Wars on both sides of the Pacific helped bring Japanese anime to American audiences, and likewise inspired the growth of science-fantasy anime stories in Japan itself,” Seastrom said. “With the production of Star Wars: Visions in recent years, this has come full circle, with Japanese filmmakers bringing their distinct points of view to create Star Wars stories directly in the anime medium.”

And it isn’t just a connection between the U.S. and Japan, but the whole world, too.

“Star Wars has drawn deep inspiration from Japan and through its storytelling and visual design, introduced aspects of Japanese culture to global audiences across generations,” Choi said.

A Gateway to APAC

“Star Wars Celebration continues to grow year over year. It’s a testament to not only the incredible generational appeal of the saga but also to the lifelong memories that are created at an event like this,” Chris Argyropoulos, VP, Franchise Assets & Publicity, Lucasfilm, said.

This event is a tangible way that fans across APAC can connect with the brand that they love. For instance, many attendees to this year’s Celebration are flying in from Australia and New Zealand, as well as from Southeast Asia.

And fans in the APAC region have that connection to Star Wars due to a variety of touch points with the Star Wars franchise. The films and television series are, of course, global. And series like Star Wars: Visions — a special Disney+ anthology series that was created in collaboration with local Japanese anime studios, have, according to Choi, “really resonated with Japanese and Asian viewers.”

On top of that, Disney Consumer Products collaborates with global and local partners to create a diverse portfolio of products that blend the creative excellence of Japanese manufacturing with the iconic storytelling of Star Wars, so fans can carry the story with them wherever they go.

A Galaxy of Celebration

While there’s always so much Star Wars to celebrate, this year’s Star Wars Celebration will hold space for tons of exciting moments in the coming weeks.

There will be panels on the highly anticipated second season of Andor on April 22; the 20 anniversary of Revenge of the Sith, which is returning to movie theaters in a limited engagement on April 25; a look at Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), the groundbreaking visual effects house that is the subject of a second season of the seriesLight & Magic, and which celebrates its 50 anniversary in May.

There’s all that and so much more at Star Wars Celebration, which will keep fans interested and in the know as the latest Star Wars projects — like next year’s The Mandalorian and Grogu — come to a galaxy not so far away.

“For Lucasfilm, it’s important that we give fans from all over the world the opportunity to participate in an event like Star Wars Celebration to keep them engaged and get them excited about what the next 50 years will bring,” Argyropoulos said.

Today at Star Wars Celebration 2025 in Japan, Lucasfilm’s President Kathleen Kennedy and Chief Creative Officer Dave Filoni announced an all-new theatrical release set in the Star Wars Galaxy. Star Wars: Starfighter will open exclusively in theaters May 28, 2027.

Star Wars: Starfighter, which will be directed by Shawn Levy and star Ryan Gosling, is a standalone adventure taking place approximately five years after the events of 2019’s Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker. The film, which will begin production this fall, is an entirely new adventure featuring all-new characters set in a period of time that has not been explored on screen yet.

Star Wars: Starfighter comes to theaters on May 28, 2027. #StarWarsCelebration pic.twitter.com/dsbVb3VdBY

— Star Wars (@starwars) April 18, 2025

Levy is a director and producer of both film and television series, including Deadpool & Wolverine and Stranger Things.

Gosling most recently starred in the 2024 blockbuster Barbie, for which he received Oscar and Golden Globe nominations. Other credits include La La Land, The Notebook, and Crazy Stupid Love.

Today, Disney+ released the trailer for Lucasfilm Animation’s Star Wars: Tales of the Underworld, an all-new anthology series of animated shorts from creator Dave Filoni, premiering exclusively on Disney+ just in time for the ultimate Star Wars holiday, May the 4th.

The popular series, which began in 2022 with Tales of the Jedi and continued in 2024 with Tales of the Empire, this time focuses on the criminal underbelly of the Star Wars galaxy through the experiences of two iconic villains. Former assassin and bounty hunter Asajj Ventress is given a new chance at life and must go on the run with an unexpected new ally, while outlaw Cad Bane faces his past when he confronts an old friend, now a Marshal on the opposite side of the law.

Filoni created the series and is the supervising director. He is also an executive producer along with Athena Yvette Portillo and Carrie Beck. Josh Rimes is the co-executive producer, Alex Spotswood is the senior producer, and Matt Michnovetz is the writer.

The voice cast includes Nika Futterman, Corey Burton, Artt Butler, Lane Factor, AJ LoCascio, Clare Grant, Dawn-Lyen Gardner, and Eric Lopez.

Star Wars: Tales of the Underworld joins an expansive collection of Star Wars films and series on Disney+, just in time for May the 4th.

Today, Lucasfilm announced the return of Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith to the big screen on April 25 to celebrate the film’s 20th anniversary. The film will run in U.S. theaters and select international territories for one week only and will be available in several formats, including, for the first time, 4DX. 4DX features high-tech motion chairs that sync with over 21 effects, all designed to complement the narrative of the film.

Renowned graphic artist Matt Ferguson created an exciting new poster for the re-release event.

Revenge of the Sith takes place years after the onset of the Clone Wars, when the noble Jedi Knights lead a massive clone army into a galaxy-wide battle against the Separatists. When the sinister Sith unveil a thousand-year-old plot to rule the galaxy, the Republic crumbles and from its ashes rises the evil Galactic Empire. Jedi Hero Anakin Skywalker is seduced by the dark side of the Force to become the Emperor’s new apprentice — Darth Vader. The Jedi are decimated, as Obi-Wan Kenobi and Jedi Master Yoda are forced into hiding.

The film stars Ewan McGregor, Natalie Portman, Hayden Christensen, Ian McDiarmid, Disney Legend Frank Oz as Yoda, Jimmy Smits, Peter Mayhew, Ahmed Best, Oliver Ford Davies, Temuera Morrison, Anthony Daniels, Silas Carson, Kenny Baker, with Samuel L. Jackson as Mace Windu and Christopher Lee as Count Dooku. Disney Legend George Lucas wrote and directed the film.

After taking a lightspeed trip to 4.8 million views in one day, The Acolyte‘s premiere episode drove 11.1 million views* globally based on five days of streaming, maintaining its status as the biggest series premiere on Disney+ of 2024.

Set during the High Republic Era of the Star Wars saga, The Acolyte tells the story of an investigation into a shocking crime spree that pits a respected Jedi master against a dangerous warrior from his past.

The first episode thrusts viewers right into the action with a gripping fight scene that sets off the central mystery of the series.

“I was very interested in telling a story about the Sith,” Leslye Headland, creator and executive producer of The Acolyte, said. “The logical conclusion would be to set this show in a time period where the Sith are the underdogs.”

The first two episodes of The Acolyte are currently streaming on Disney+, and new episodes will debut every Tuesday through July 16.

Star Wars fans can find the rest of the sprawling saga — from the original trilogy to the latest series — on Disney+.

Created and executive produced by Headland, The Acolyte stars Lee Jung-jae, Amandla Stenberg, Charlie Barnett, Manny Jacinto, Jodie Turner-Smith, and Carrie-Anne Moss.

* A view is defined as total stream time divided by runtime.

Leslye Headland was “very interested in telling a story about the Sith” when it came to The Acolyte — the new Star Wars series on Disney+.

However, in a saga known for heroes like Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Han Solo, how would the creator and executive producer of the series focus on the bad guys that make up the galaxy far, far away?

One solution: set The Acolyte a long, long time ago.

“The logical conclusion would be to set this show in a time period where the Sith are the underdogs,” Headland said.

And that’s what she did.

A Story from the High Republic Era

The Acolyte — which begins streaming Tuesday on Disney+ — takes audiences into the dark underside of the High Republic Era — a time long before the Skywalker Saga that was filled with peace and hope. During that period of prosperity, Headland crafts a Star Wars story that follows an investigation into a shocking crime spree against Jedi.

The mystery at the heart of the series pits a respected Jedi Master, played by Lee Jung-jae, against a dangerous warrior from his past, played by Amandla Stenberg.

Since this era hasn’t been seen in live action before, that gave Headland leeway for creative freedom.

“We actually can explore something new here and we don’t have to worry about stepping on anything else and preserving something else,” Headland said. That allowed her to tell “a version of Star Wars from the bad guys’ perspective.”

However, one challenge did present itself to Headland as the show came together.

“There’s a lot tonally to try to accomplish,” Headland explained. “I was hoping to have a combination of a darker tone, but still there would be a decent amount of fun and games, and then also an intriguing mystery.”

Fights as emotional scenes

Headland worked closely with action designer and second unit director Chris Cowan to make sure that each fight was — first and foremost — “an emotional scene.”

She added that the fights would be broken down into sequences, so that by the third part of a confrontation “something is revealed, and you have a shift in who’s in control, who’s in power.”

That lends narrative propulsion to each action sequence, rather than stopping the development of the characters and plot. The fight scenes are also often depicted in wide shots where the actors’ entire bodies can be seen executing the fight choreography, lending real-world weight and plausibility to those moments.

Walking the tightrope with support from Lucasfilm

Creating an eight-part installment in one of the most well-known franchises in this or any galaxy was a significant change for Headland, who had mainly worked in independent films prior to collaborating with the teams at Lucasfilm and Disney.

Headland described being “overwhelmed by the support that I got from Lucasfilm,” adding that due to her time making smaller projects, she was “always fighting uphill to get something made. I had never been in the position where there were a dozen people cheering you on.”

She added that she had “a lot of people at Lucasfilm supporting me, my designers, my writers, my cast.”

“I felt like I had a vision and I had something that had a lot of merit and could work really well in this world,” Headland noted. “But I think without that level of support, it would have been difficult to walk that that tightrope.”

At the end of the first episode of The Acolyte, the first name in the credits is Headland’s. The second is that of Disney Legend and Star Wars creator George Lucas.

“Don’t think I didn’t notice that,” Headland, who is a long-time Star Wars fan, said. “When I first saw that, my heartbeat quickened. That was one of the moments where it really felt real.”

After 25 years, the Force is still strong with The Phantom Menace.

Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace made an estimated $14.5 million at the global box office this weekend — an impressive total for a re-release of a film that is a quarter century old.

The film — which released on Friday in celebration of its 25th anniversary and timed to May the Fourth, also known as Star Wars Day — made $8.1 million domestically, which helped it take the No. 2 spot at the box office. It was shown in 2,700 domestic theaters, including 150 Premium Large Format screens and 130 specialty motion D-Box/4D auditoriums.

For comparison, the 40th anniversary re-release of Star Wars: Return of the Jedi opened to $5.1 million in April of last year.

The Phantom Menace opened in 1999 and was instantly a pop culture sensation.

The film — which was directed by Star Wars creator George Lucas and starred Liam Neeson, Ewan McGregor and Natalie Portman — broke box office records and has since found a new generation of fans, growing its popularity over the last two decades.

The film tells the origins of Anakin Skywalker who would eventually become the sinister Darth Vader. The science fiction fantasy classic is full of cinematic innovations, creative storytelling, and iconic moments, which are hallmarks of the Star Wars series.

The re-release of The Phantom Menace was paired with an exclusive sneak peek of the upcoming Disney+ series Star Wars: The Acolyte, which premieres June 4.

A significant number of international markets are also playing the film including the UK, Germany, France, Spain, Australia, Japan, Mexico and Brazil.

Star Wars: The Phantom Menace and the entire Star Wars saga is currently streaming on Disney+.

The Star Wars ‘March to May the 4th’ campaign began Thursday, March 21 in New York City, with new product announcements including toys, apparel, accessories, collectables and more. The march started with a takeover of the Empire State Building, including a lighting ceremony by Hayden Christensen, who portrays one of the most recognizable antagonists of all time, Darth Vader.

The spectacle was synched to John Williams’ “The Imperial March (Darth Vader’s Theme),” and culminated in a showstopping dynamic light show displayed on the façade of the world-famous New York landmark. The five-minute light show featured scenes from the Star Wars saga, with a special focus on fan-favorite villains including Darth Vader, Emperor Palpatine, stormtroopers and more.

The takeover of the Empire State Building includes interactive photo moments, which highlight new Star Wars consumer products in window and observatory deck displays. On the iconic 86th Floor Observatory, Star Wars fans can pose with a life-size Funko POP! Darth Vader figure with a backdrop of unmatched New York City skyline views.

To celebrate the 25th anniversary of LEGO® Star Wars, the LEGO Group is featuring a museum-quality display of life sized Star Wars villains built from LEGO bricks, including six-foot tall, brick-built recreations of Darth Vader and Darth Maul on the building’s 80th floor.

The building’s iconic Fifth Avenue Lobby windows feature a special Star Wars display that depicts imagery of Darth Vader, Darth Maul and stormtroopers amid an array of Star Wars merchandise.

Select activations throughout the building and within the Observatory Experience will remain open to the public through April 29.

Additionally, Hasbro and Amazon have teamed up to create a Star Wars experience with something for every Star Wars fan on the first floor of the Empire State Building. The immersive retail experience offers visitors photo opportunities with costumed characters, including Darth Vader, and photo backdrops featuring iconic scenes inspired by the films.

Visitors will be able to check out the latest Hasbro Black Series helmets or wield their favorite character’s FX Elite or Kyber Core LIGHTSABER adult and kid collectibles. The Hasbro and Amazon experience will remain open to the public through Saturday, March 23.

Senior Vice President, Global Brand Commercialization, Lucasfilm, Disney Experiences, Paul Southern, commented: “We’re excited to unveil a broad range of new products for fans of all ages with our extensive roster of licensees and retailers as we all march to May the 4th. We really brought the power of the Empire to the Empire State Building with this Star Wars takeover, creating a moment only fit for one of the strongest entertainment brands and most enduring franchises in the world.”

New Star Wars Products

New products include the first of three new Star Wars dark side timepieces from Citizen Watch – STAR WARS | Citizen Imperial Stormtrooper, the LEGO Group’s Invisible Hand and Boarding the Tantive IV, together with products from Just Play and Panasonic.

The Disney Store collections launching in the weeks leading up to May the 4th including the dated May the 4th collectable pin and tumbler, and a thrilling collection created in honor of the 25th anniversary of Star Wars: The Phantom Menace.

Disney Store also announced The Sith Apprentice: Darth Maul Legacy LIGHTSABER Set – Limited Edition, complete with light and musical effects, launching on May 4, 2024. For photos from the event, please view our media gallery.

Breaking news from a galaxy far, far away…

As previously announced, Star Wars Celebration will take place at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan, between April 18–20, 2025, marking the first Star Wars Celebration held in the country since 2008. Fans of all ages—and from all over the world—are invited to come together and immerse themselves in the cultural phenomenon that is Star Wars.

Today, Lucasfilm Ltd. and ReedPop debuted the key art for Star Wars Celebration Japan on StarWars.com. Inspired by the traditional Japanese ink painting style known as sumi-e, the 2025 key art features the looming presence of Darth Vader accompanied by beautiful cherry blossoms and sweeping ink strokes. X-Wings, TIE Fighters, and Imperial AT-ATs are featured prominently in the foreground, while the Rising Sun—Mount Fuji contained within—completes the spectacular piece.

Tickets will go on sale Thursday, May 2, at 7 p.m. EST (U.S. Time) and Friday, May 3, at 8 a.m. JST (Japan Time), with travel packages available for non-local fans who are planning to attend. Star Wars Celebration revels in the excitement of new films, television series, books, art, and comics, while also commemorating the vast history of the ever-expanding Star Wars galaxy. It encompasses three full days that include major announcements, immersive exhibits, an interactive show floor, screenings, exclusive merchandise, celebrity guests, panels, autograph sessions, fan-inspired activities, costumes, and more Star Wars surprises.

Subscribe to the Star Wars Celebration newsletter for more updates.

The Mandalorian and his little green friend Grogu—the stars of the hit Disney+ Star Wars series The Mandalorian—have taken many adventures in the galaxy far, far away. Now, they’re heading somewhere completely different: the big screen.

A new theatrical film directed by Jon Favreau—the creator of The Mandalorian—and produced by Favreau, Kathleen Kennedy—the President of Lucasfilm—and Dave Filoni is set to go into production this year starring the galactic pair.

“I have loved telling stories set in the rich world that George Lucas created,” Favreau said. “The prospect of bringing the Mandalorian and his apprentice Grogu to the big screen is extremely exciting.”

Kennedy added that “Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni have ushered into Star Wars two new and beloved characters and this new story is a perfect fit for the big screen.”

The new film will lead Lucasfilm’s ongoing feature-development slate including projects helmed by Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, James Mangold and Filoni, among those in the works.

Filoni is also currently developing the second season of the popular Disney+ series, Ahsoka.

Ahsoka—the latest Star Wars Disney+ series—premiered last week and with it came a lot of fanfare. Part one of the series, Master and Apprentice, was the most-watched title on Disney+ this past week, notching 14 million views.

It makes sense why. Ahsoka Tano—the titular character and double lightsaber wielding Jedi of the series—is one of the most popular characters from the galaxy far, far away. Ever since her debut as Anakin Skywalker’s Padawan apprentice in 2008’s The Clone Wars, Ahsoka has made a lot of fans along the way as a beloved female hero.

With the new live-action series starring Rosario Dawson putting the character front and center, we asked Brittney Todd—Disney’s VP of Marketing Strategy—and Kyle Rodri—VP of Creative Advertising—how they marketed the new series to not only expand the Star Wars universe but introduce Ahsoka to whole new galaxy of fans.

Star Wars is one of the most beloved brands. The name Star Wars itself is a marketing tool. With Ahsoka, how do you use the brand to market the series?  Brittney: Lucasfilm and Star Wars has built such a strong brand and reputation. Just seeing the Lucasfilm and Star Wars name stirs all these emotions and nostalgia, and it’s really just about taking care of that and knowing that people have these memories—these core memories—that are connected to the brand. You have to go into it knowing that people feel so close to this story, and it’s just about keeping that top of mind with everything that you do from beginning to end. Ahsoka just falls within that world but knowing that people feel really connected to this universe is something we have to be aware of throughout everything we do on the project.

Kyle: Obviously, these filmmakers have crafted a story that is new, and so you can’t rest on what we’ve done in the past. I think we have to establish that this is an event that is here to excite fans. I think fans deserve to know that a character like this—which has had such a long history in animation—is getting her own series. And I think that the event nature of it deserves a marketing campaign that is specific to it.

Ahsoka is set around a female character. In fact, multiple female characters. How does that impact the marketing strategy around it?Brittney: I think that females have always been a part of the Star Wars galaxy. They’ve always been a part of the stories that Lucasfilm and Star Wars have told. But truly being centered in this story, I think is something that’s been very unique and something that we want to be able to celebrate in all of our marketing. Not necessarily pivot from anything that we’ve done in the past or totally go outside of what we would do for the Star Wars fandom, but really be able to celebrate it as an opportunity to bring in some new fans and maybe find some new champions for the series as well.

Ahsoka Tano is one of the most popular characters in Star Wars history. Does that make it challenging to tell her story to fans in Ahsoka?Brittney: Anytime you’re dealing with a character that’s beloved, well known, has a history and a connection, it just takes that extra bit of care. And you have to take that into consideration in anything that you’re doing in the marketing realm. You want to make sure that you have those Easter eggs. You don’t spoil anything. You keep it exciting for the people that are already those core fans, but then also offering an opportunity for someone new who is maybe on the outside.

Kyle: Also, I think at this point the character has earned this level of attention in the series and in the marketing.

Why is it important to expand the Star Wars brand to people who may not already be fans? And how does Ahsoka help that cause?Brittney: It goes without saying that it will help the fandom to live on. It’s a truly multi-generational property. It’s great to be able to build something that’s going to mean something so specific to audiences of a certain generation and now have an opportunity to bring in a new generation that will grow that same love and affinity. I think it’s important for us to bring in an audience of a younger generation so that we can build on that great storytelling that’s been already set for us. Ahsoka is just the next story in that legacy.

Kyle: Star Wars has permeated culture. It’s transcended whether you know who Darth Vader is or not. We can all relate in some way to the characters in the stories. We know that Star Wars—as a marketing term—is “for everyone.” If you’re a fan of action, if you’re a fan of science fiction, we have that, but also if you’re a fan of storytelling. It echoes our day-to-day relationship. These stories, especially these series, are really drilled down into the intimacy of the characters. For me, that makes it feel like this galaxy that’s far, far away is actually closer than we think. We also have to remember it’s a galaxy. There are a multitude of stories, and you don’t necessarily need to know all of them to be able to relate to whatever you find. You can come in to Ahsoka and understand that it is a standalone story. You don’t have to have any preconceived notions of the past. So—for me—people that might not already be fans, I think there’s a huge opportunity to bring them in.

Ahsoka is now streaming on Disney+