#FIRSTLOOK: “STAR WARS: TALES OF THE UNDERWORLD” DEBUTS MAY 2, 2025

Epic and Disney are embarking on their most expansive Star Wars collaboration in Fortnite to date with the first entirely Star Wars-themed Battle Royale Season and the in-game premiere of “Star Wars: Tales of the Underworld” on May 2, 2025 two days ahead of its Disney+ launch. This marks the first debut of a Disney+ series in a game.

Recently announced at Star Wars Celebration, Fortnite: GALACTIC BATTLE begins May 2 and introduces new Star Wars content and gameplay to Battle Royale each week. Fans can play as Darth Jar Jar or Emperor Palpatine, while piloting ships like X-wings and TIE Fighters. The season will culminate in an epic in-game live event, Death Star Sabotage.

The Star Wars Watch Party island will also go live on May 2, and beginning at 10am ET, players will have a chance to view the first two episodes of Lucasfilm Animation’s “Star Wars: Tales of the Underworld,” an all-new anthology series of animated shorts from creator Dave Filoni focusing on the criminal underbelly of the Star Wars galaxy through the experiences of two iconic villains: Asajj Ventress and Cad Bane. Beyond the Star Wars Watch Party theatre, players have the opportunity to fight off incoming waves of Stormtroopers using blasters and lightsabers. The standalone Star Wars Watch Party island was built in Unreal Editor for Fortnite (UEFN) and uses official Star Wars assets to create a breathtaking environment inspired by a galaxy far, far away.

To further bridge the worlds of Fortnite and Disney, starting today players and fans can link their Epic Games and MyDisney accounts. Eligible players who choose to link their Epic and MyDisney accounts will unlock a First Order Stormtrooper Outfit to further celebrate the upcoming Star Wars season of Battle Royale – with more benefits to come. This is a first step to enable Fortnite players and Disney fans to seamlessly move between Epic and Disney’s ecosystems, bringing more value to streaming subscribers as we work to build an all new Disney games and entertainment universe connected to Fortnite.

“For the first time, Disney+ is premiering a show inside a game, launching alongside our largest Star Wars collaboration with Fortnite to date – giving fans and players an exciting first look at the kinds of experiences they can expect as we shape a new future together,” said Sean Shoptaw, Executive Vice President, Disney Games & Digital Entertainment. “We’re building the next era of digital entertainment, where fans can play, watch, create and connect – and we’re just beginning to tap into what’s possible.”

“Disney and Epic are pioneering the future of social entertainment together, and this expansive Star Wars collaboration offers a glimpse into the type of interactive experiences we envision,” said Adam Sussman, President, Epic Games. “We are reimagining what’s possible with immersive storytelling in Fortnite with one of the world’s most beloved franchises – stay tuned for a lot more to come.”

You can read more about how to join the Star Wars Watch Party island and Epic and MyDisney account linking on the Fortnite Blog here.

About “Star Wars: Tales of the Underworld”

From creator Dave Filoni comes “Star Wars: Tales of the Underworld,” an all-new anthology series of animated shorts 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.

Produced by Lucasfilm Animation, “Star Wars: Tales of the Underworld” is executive produced by Dave Filoni, Athena Yvette Portillo, and Carrie Beck. Dave Filoni is supervising director, Josh Rimes is co-executive producer, Alex Spotswood is the senior producer, and Matt Michnovetz is the writer. “Star Wars: Tales of the Underworld” stars Nika Futterman, Corey Burton, Artt Butler, Lane Factor, AJ LoCascio, Clare Grant, Dawn-Lyen Gardner, and Eric Lopez.

#BOXOFFICE: “SINNERS” IS DEVILILSH AGAIN AT THE BOX OFFICE

It’s another Warner Bros. domination at the Box Office this weekend as SINNERS repeats its glory again, taking top spot with $30 million from 3,347 theates. This takes it to $107 million domestically.

Debuting in second spot is THE ACCOUNTANT 2 with $23 million from 3,610 theatres for Warner Bros. It gets a stellar 77% on the Tomatometer, far besting its predecessor which had a 53% score. That Film debuted with $24.7 million, and performs very close to that again.

STAR WARS: REVENGE OF THE SITH gets a re–release in time for its 20th anniversary, taking $20 million from 2,775 theatres for Disney. Prior, the Film grossed $380 million domestically upon its 2005 release.

In fourth is A MINECRAFT MOVIE with $18 million from 3,841 theatres for Warner Bros., a domestic total of $375 million.

UNTIL DAWN rounds this Top Five with $7 million from 3.055 theatres in its opening for Sony Pictures. The Horror gets 51% on the Tomatometer.

#SPOTTED: STELLAR SKARSGÅRD AND GENEVIEVE O’REILLY IN TORONTO FOR “ANDOR” SEASON TWO

The Red Carpet was rolled out at TIFF Lightbox last night as Fan Expo Canada and Walt Disney Studios Canada brought us a special fan screening of ANDOR Season 2. The first three episodes of the season are now available on Disney+!

This season sees relationships intensify and alliances get tested in this final season.

Stars Stellan Skarsgård (Luthen Rael) and Genevieve O’Reilly (Mon Motha) came out to celebrate and promote the season, walking the Red Carpet, greeting fans and doing a Q&A with Richard Crouse following the screening, which saw several fans costumed and dressed thematically. The Series continues to see rave reviews.

Also launching was Andor Season 2 Declassified: Time on Disney+ in the series’ Extras section and YouTube. The “Declassified” specials are behind-the-scenes looks and commentary with cast and crew that follow each block of three episodes every week.

Some highlights:

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#FIRSTLOOK: LUCASFILM ANNOUNCE THEATRICAL SLATE AT STAR WARS CELEBRATION 2025

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 16th 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 (see photo above),” 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 theatres 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 50th 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 20th 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 was moderated 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 20th 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 20th anniversary release of Lucasfilm’s “Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith,’’ in theatres on April 25. The film will run in theatres 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.

#FIRSTLOOK: HIGHLIGHTS FROM STAR WARS CELEBRATION 2025

Star Wars Celebration 2025 continued in Japan today, with details and exclusive first looks at the return of two of Disney+’s most popular series, as well as exciting news about a new LEGO® Star Wars sequel special. The weekend-long convention, which is being held at Makuhari Messe Convention Center in Tokyo, runs from April 18-20.

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 then treated to a screening of the first episode, followed by an exclusive preview of Season 2, and everyone received a special “Andor” celebration poster as well.

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+.

Celebration attendees were then 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-favourite character Baylan Skoll, originated by the late Ray Stevenson, and 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…

Returning voice cast includes Gaten Matarazzo (Sig Greebling), Tony Revolori (Darth Dev), Bobby Moynihan (Jedi Bob), Marsai Martin (Yesi Scala), Michael Cusack (Servo), Ahmed Best (Death Jar Jar), and a special appearance by Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker). The four-piece sequel series welcomes Ashley Eckstein as LEGO BrickHeadz Ahsoka Tano and Ben Schwartz as Jaxxon.

“LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild Galaxy – Pieces of the Past” is written by Dan Hernandez and Benji Samit, directed by Chris Buckley, and debuts on Disney+ September 19, 2025.

#FIRSTLOOK: STAR WARS CELEBRATION 2025 HIGHLIGHTS IN JAPAN | “STAR WARS: STARFIGHTER” ANNOUNCEMENT

Star Wars Celebration 2025 kicked off in Japan earlier today, with an impressive slate of upcoming Lucasfilm productions, including both theatrical titles and Disney+ series. The weekend-long convention, which takes place at Makuhari Messe Convention Center in Tokyo from April 18-20, 2025 is an opportunity for fans from all over the world to come together to celebrate the cultural phenomenon that is Star Wars. 2025 marks the 16th occurrence of the bi-annual global event. The opening day presentation included several major announcements, first looks at new and returning series, and a non-stop parade of talented actors and filmmakers.

The festivities started with a video highlighting the company’s landmark titles and beloved characters, which have captivated audiences around the globe for the past four decades, followed by an official welcome to the 9,000 fans in attendance from everyone’s favorite droids, C3PO and R2D2. They were joined by Lucasfilm’s president Kathleen Kennedy and chief creative officer Dave Filoni, who thanked the fans for their continued support, and brought the entire auditorium to their feet with the announcement of an all-new theatrical release, “Star Wars: Starfighter,” which will be directed by Shawn Levy and star Ryan Gosling.

Kennedy chatted with the actor and director, offering some exclusive insight as to what fans can expect from the 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 theatres May 22, 2026. Joining him were 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.

As 2025 marks Industrial Light & Magic’s 50th anniversary, a special panel was up next to celebrate the groundbreaking visual effects company’s contributions to the entertainment industry. 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.

Up next was a special Lucasfilm Animation Panel, celebrating the 20th anniversary of the division that created fan-favourite and critically acclaimed shows like “Star Wars: The Clone Wars,” “Star Wars: Rebels,” and more. The panel was moderated by David Collins and included panelists Dave Filoni (chief creative officer, Lucasfilm) and Athena Yvette Portillo (vice president, animation production, Lucasfilm), and surprise guest Sam Witwer (voice of Maul).

Fans were then 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 20th anniversary poster.

Later that day, everyone’s favourite 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.

#FIRSTLOOK: “STAR WARS: TALES OF THE UNDERWORLD”

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.

Dave 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 serves as co-executive producer, Alex Spotswood is the senior producer, and Matt Michnovetz is the writer.

The talented 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.

#FIRSTLOOK: “ANDOR” SEASON 2 OFFICIAL TRAILER

Today Disney+ debuted an exciting new trailer and poster for Lucasfilm’s Emmy®-nominated thriller “Andor” Season 2, which returns for its long-awaited conclusion on April 22.  Get ready for the new season and check out the “Andor” content available on YouTube:  a special look at “Andor” Season 2, a 14-minute recap of Season One, and the “Andor Season 1 with Tony Gilroy” event.

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+.  

“Andor” Season 2 stars Diego Luna, Stellan Skarsgård, Genevieve O’Reilly, Denise Gough, Kyle Soller, Adria Arjona, Alan Tudyk, Faye Marsay, Varada Sethu, Elizabeth Dulau, with Ben Mendelsohn and Forest Whitaker. The series was created by Tony Gilroy, who also serves as an executive producer along with Kathleen Kennedy, Sanne Wohlenberg, Diego Luna, Luke Hull and John Gilroy. Tony Gilroy wrote the first three episodes, with Beau Willimon writing episodes 4-6, Dan Gilroy penning episodes 7-9 and Tom Bissell putting pen to paper for episodes 10-12. The directors for the series are Ariel Kleiman (Eps. 1-6), Janus Metz (Eps. 7-9) and Alonso Ruizpalacios (Eps. 10-12).

Now through March 30, 2025 new and returning customers can stream the biggest movies and series of the spring with Disney+ Standard With Ads for only $1.99/month for four months. To learn more or sign-up, visit www.disneyplus.com.

#FIRSTLOOK: HIGHLIGHTS FROM COMICON TORONTO 2025

Right in time for March Break, Toronto’s favourite celebration of fandom was back this weekend, March 14 to 16, 2025 at Metro Toronto Convention Centre! With over 400 exhibitors front and center giving guests a chance to buy rare collectibles, this was an opportunity not to be missed. We definitely saw the Demon Slayer effect with lots of swords on-display. Also, this was a chance for fans to meet some of their favourite Artists in person and get custom commissions done!

And if that wasn’t enough there were ample opportunities to purchase autographs and photo ops with some big stars! Just want to see them up close? No problem, there were intimate panels held as well, giving fans a chance to ask their burning questions. Names in attendance included: Jared Padelecki, Karl Urban, James Marsters, Antony Starr, Nathan Mitchell, Jim Beaver, recent Canadian Screen Radius Award recipient Manny Jacinto, and many more. And we confirm with the latter in a quick chat that he indeed will be attending festivities at the end of May.

Drawing the biggest queue was Marvel Television‘s DAREDEVIL: BORN AGAIN HELL’S KITCHEN booth, which drew attention to their recent collaboration with Mary Brown’s, the Hot Honey Sandwich, while also giving away free branded T-Shirts! Despite the wait being between three to five hours in some instances, a ticketing system allowed fans to go about their day and come back closer to their time. There also was an Arthur and D.W. meet and greet at nostalgic apparel maker Retrokid‘s booth, and also a 30-foot Stay Puft Marshmallow Man photo op.

And did we mention how Toronto keeps stepping-up its Cosplay game? We’ve never seen better costumes than this year! And it was so reassuring seeing guests asking Cosplayers politely for permission to take photographs, creating a safe space for one another. This is the Toronto I know and love.

Our Team was out and about this weekend. Some highlights from the weekend, including panels, celebrities and amazing Cosplay!

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Missed the fun? No to worry, FAN EXPO CANADA is just a few months away. Start planning now here.

(Photo/video credit: Mr. Will Wong/D. Neves/R. Heaslip)

#FIRSTLOOK: “STAR WARS: REVENGE OF THE SITH” 20TH ANNIVERSARY RETURN TO THEATRES

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 select theatres 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, 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. George Lucas wrote and directed the film.