Star Wars Celebrationhas been raging all weekend long, bringing fans of this galaxy far, far away some big reveals over the last few days. But things are starting to wind down, and they may have saved the best for last. Today, we finally get a first look atThe Mandalorian, which brings theStar Warsuniverse back to the small screen in a big way.
The Rise of Skywalkerwill bring closure to theStar Warsuniverse on the big screen, wrapping up the entire Skywalker saga that started way back in 1977 withA New Hope. But now a new chapter is about to begin, as Disney+ launches the first in what should be many live-action TV shows based around the space epic.
The Mandalorianpanel is being streaming live direct fromStar Wars Celebrationthis morning, as those in Chicago get a last chance at seeing something fun from the main stage. Those not in attendance don’t have to worry about missing out, with everything kicking off at 11 am.
Scheduled to appear on stage will be showrunner and series overlord Jon Favreau, who has become quite the fixture atDisney. He has appeared in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Happy Hogan, and will next be seen inAvengers: EndgameandSpider-Man: Far From Home. He also directedThe Jungle Bookand hasThe Lion Kingremake coming out this summer. ButThe Mandalorianmay be his most ambitious new project for the house of mouse.
Joining him will be executive producer Dave Filoni. And there are expected to be some big surprises rolled out. Pedro Pascal is expected to appear. He plays the title character, a lone gunslinger on the outer rim of the galaxy, waging his own private Star Wars against unknown forces in the time shortly afterReturn of the Jedi, which will allow for some old favorites to show up. It’s confirmed that classic bounty hunter IG-88 will be on hand, as will the original Stormtroopers.
The cast includes Nick Nolte, Giancarlo Esposito, Gina Carano, Omid Abtahi, Emily Swallow, and Werner Herzog. It isn’t yet announced who will be making an appearance. Jon Favreau says this.
“We’re having a great time working with this incredibly talented group and excited for everyone to see what we’re up to.”
Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy previously shared this in a statement announcing the series.
“I couldn’t be more excited about Jon coming on board to produce and write for the new direct-to-consumer platform. Jon brings the perfect mix of producing and writing talent, combined with a fluency in the Star Wars universe. This series will allow Jon the chance to work with a diverse group of writers and directors and give Lucasfilm the opportunity to build a robust talent base.”
Directors for Season 1including Dave Filoni, Bryce Dallas Howard, and Taika Waititi, who is also playing IG-88. About the show, Waititi says this.
“Star Wars is very different to Marvel style. They know that the tone of the first films really should be kind of adhered to. That’s what the fans like and you may’t really disrespect it, I guess is a nicer way of saying, ‘Can’t put too many jokes in.’ There’s a bit, definitely, my tone is in there, the dialogue and stuff like that.”