Star Wars – Ever since Disney acquired Lucasfilm in 2012, fans of the franchise have been treated to an endless supply of new media that has expanded the galaxy far, far away. Under Disney’s direction, the Star Wars world has expanded to include animated and live-action television series, novels, comic books, and motion pictures. With all of the information, though, one concern remains in the minds of fans: when will the next Star Wars film be released?
A New Era of Star Wars Films
Disney’s purchase of Lucasfilm brought about a new era for Star Wars, starting with the release of The Force Awakens in 2015. Since then, fans have seen a mix of mainline episodic films and stand-alone spin-offs. Between 2015 and 2019, five Star Wars films were released, including the conclusion of the Skywalker Saga with The Rise of Skywalker.
However, after The Rise of Skywalker hit theaters in December 2019, Disney hit the pause button on theatrical releases, choosing instead to focus on television projects like The Mandalorian, The Book of Boba Fett, and Ahsoka on Disney+. But the wait for the next Star Wars movie is nearing its end.
What We Know About the Upcoming Star Wars Films
The next Star Wars film currently slated for release is expected to hit theaters on May 22, 2026. Disney announced this date as part of their revised release schedule, which includes several untitled Star Wars projects. While there have been delays and shifts in the timeline, this date appears to be locked in for the franchise’s return to the big screen.
Multiple Films in Development
There’s no shortage of Star Wars movies in the works, with multiple high-profile projects announced over the last few years. Here’s a look at some of the upcoming films that could be hitting theaters soon:
- Daisy Ridley’s Rey-Centered Movie: One of the most exciting announcements came from Star Wars Celebration 2023, where Lucasfilm revealed that Daisy Ridley would reprise her role as Rey in a new film set after the events of The Rise of Skywalker. This movie will focus on Rey rebuilding the Jedi Order and exploring the next chapter in the saga. Directed by Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, this film will be the first to revisit the post-Skywalker era.
- James Mangold’s Origin of the Jedi: Director James Mangold (Logan, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny) is set to helm a Star Wars film exploring the origins of the Jedi. Described as a “biblical epic,” this movie will dive into the very beginnings of the Force and the Jedi Order, offering a fresh perspective on the ancient mythology of the Star Wars universe.
- Dave Filoni’s New Republic Film: Dave Filoni, the creative force behind The Mandalorian, The Clone Wars, and Ahsoka, is developing a film that will serve as a culmination of the interconnected stories told in the Disney+ Star Wars series. This film is expected to bring together characters and storylines from shows like The Mandalorian, The Book of Boba Fett, and Ahsoka, possibly focusing on the rise of the Imperial remnant and the battle to restore the New Republic.
Delays and Changes in the Release Schedule
It’s important to note that while May 22, 2026, is the next confirmed release date, Star Wars has seen its share of production delays and shifts in scheduling over the past few years. Projects like Patty Jenkins’ Rogue Squadron were initially expected to hit theaters sooner but have been delayed indefinitely, while other films have experienced creative changes or been put on hold.
Despite these changes, Lucasfilm has consistently emphasized its commitment to delivering high-quality Star Wars films, even if it means taking more time between releases. Kathleen Kennedy, president of Lucasfilm, has repeatedly stated that future Star Wars movies will be event films, designed to capture the epic scope and spectacle that the franchise is known for.
The Future of Star Wars on Disney+
While the next Star Wars film is still a few years away, fans can continue to explore the galaxy through the ever-expanding slate of Disney+ series. Shows like The Mandalorian and Ahsoka have been massive hits, with more projects like The Acolyte and Skeleton Crew on the horizon. These series have filled the gap left by the absence of theatrical releases, offering new stories and characters that enrich the broader Star Wars universe.
Conclusion: A New Adventure Awaits
While fans have had to wait longer than expected for the next Star Wars movie, the future of the franchise looks bright. With multiple films in development, each offering a unique perspective on the galaxy, fans have plenty to look forward to. Whether it’s Rey rebuilding the Jedi Order, the origins of the Jedi themselves, or the culmination of the Disney+ series, Star Wars is gearing up for an exciting return to theaters.
Until then, the galaxy far, far away continues to expand through TV shows, books, and comics, ensuring that the Force remains strong with Star Wars fans worldwide. May 22, 2026, is the next big date to mark on the calendar, as the next chapter in the Star Wars saga prepares to take flight.