For decades, the Star Wars universe has continuously expanded, with its stories unfolding across a multitude of mediums. Films, television series, comics—each format adds new layers of depth to the Star Wars saga. In recent years, the pace of this expansion has accelerated significantly, particularly following the rise of hit series such as The Mandalorian and Ahsoka. These shows have not only introduced new characters but also deepened existing storylines, bridging the narrative gaps between major cinematic events. Consequently, audience anticipation for new series and unfolding stories has reached an all-time high.
With new Star Wars films and television series slated for release in 2026, this article highlights the exciting new content set to join the universe that year.
| Category | Title | Release Date |
|---|---|---|
| Movies | The Mandalorian and Grogu | May 22, 2026 |
| TV Shows | Ahsoka (Season 2) | 2026 (TBA) |
| TV Shows | Star Wars: Darth Maul — Shadow Lord | April 6, 2026 |
| TV Shows | Star Wars: Visions (The Ninth Jedi) | 2026 (TBA) |
| Comics | Shadow of Maul | 2026 (TBA) |
| Comics | Other canon comics | 2026 (various dates) |
The Return of The Mandalorian & Grogu
The most highly anticipated release of 2026 is undoubtedly The Mandalorian & Grogu, scheduled to hit theaters on May 22nd. This film serves as a direct continuation of the narrative established in The Mandalorian—one of the most successful and influential series in the entire Star Wars franchise.
The story centers on the solitary bounty hunter Din Djarin and the Force-sensitive Grogu, exploring the bond between them—a relationship built upon trust, protection, and mutual growth.
Set in the aftermath of the Galactic Empire's collapse, the film is expected to continue exploring the precarious position of the New Republic as it strives to restore order to the galaxy. Meanwhile, remnants of the Empire still lurk in the shadows, continuing to sow conflict and instability. Amidst this ever-shifting landscape, Din Djarin and Grogu find their personal journey intertwined with grand galactic events, creating ripples that resonate throughout the Star Wars universe.
New Star Wars Television Series in 2026
Beyond its return to the big screen, the Star Wars universe will also see the arrival of new television series in 2026. These shows offer deeper character studies, construct more intricate storylines, and explore corners of the galaxy that feature films often cannot fully depict.
Star Wars: Darth Maul — Shadow Lord
Among the most anticipated upcoming series is Star Wars: Darth Maul — Shadow Lord, scheduled to premiere on Disney+ on April 6, 2026. Set in the aftermath of Star Wars: The Clone Wars, the story chronicles Darth Maul’s efforts to rebuild his power following his previous defeats; Maul’s journey reflects his transformation as he seeks independence and control within a chaotic galaxy.
The series focuses on Darth Maul’s endeavors to re-establish his criminal syndicate, drawing attention to the often-overlooked underworld of the Star Wars universe. Unlike the large-scale military conflicts of previous installments, this series emphasizes the internal power struggles, clandestine alliances, and strategic manipulation of resources and influence within criminal networks. His search for a new apprentice also opens up possibilities for exploring how knowledge of the Dark Side might be passed down outside the traditional Sith hierarchy.
Ahsoka Season 2
Another major release expected in 2026 is the second season of Ahsoka. Picking up directly after the events of the first season, Season 2 follows Ahsoka Tano as she navigates an increasingly complex galaxy in the wake of the Empire’s collapse. The second season is expected to further develop the interconnected narrative structure established in recent Star Wars series—particularly those set during the New Republic era. This period is marked by instability, with emerging threats constantly challenging the fragile peace that has replaced the Empire’s rule. Through Ahsoka’s perspective, the series will continue to explore how individuals and small factions can influence the fate of the galaxy.
Star Wars: Visions — The Ninth Jedi
On the animation front, Star Wars: Visions — The Ninth Jedi expands upon one of the most popular stories from the Star Wars: Visions anthology. Originally presented as a standalone short film, The Ninth Jedi is now being developed into a full-length narrative project, allowing for a deeper exploration of its characters and world-building.
This project continues the Visions series’ tradition of collaborating with diverse animation studios, creating a distinct visual style that sets it apart from traditional Star Wars animation. Beyond its unique visual style, this series also explores interpretations of the Force that exist outside the traditional framework of the Jedi and the Sith. In doing so, it introduces fresh perspectives on how Force-sensitivity can manifest and be understood within diverse cultural and narrative contexts.
Comics Expand the Star Wars Universe
Comics continue to play a vital role in expanding the Star Wars universe, offering stories that complement and deepen the narratives found in the films and television series. In 2026, comics remain a crucial bridge connecting these various works, providing a medium to explore journeys of personal growth that might not be fully realized on screen.
Shadow of Maul
One of the comics most closely tied to the Star Wars television lineup is Shadow of Maul, a prequel to the upcoming series Star Wars: Lords of the Sith. This comic series centers on Darth Maul and lays the narrative groundwork for the forthcoming show. Set after the events of Star Wars: The Clone Wars, the story chronicles Maul's attempts to reclaim dominance over the galaxy following the conclusion of the Clone Wars.
Shadow of Maul offers an in-depth look at how he rebuilds his influence, forges alliances, and navigates the fractured underworld. This supplementary background information allows viewers of the series to gain a deeper understanding of his motivations and the state of his criminal network at the beginning of the show.
Other Canon Comics
2026 will also see the release of a range of other canon comics set across various eras of the Star Wars saga. Many of these stories take place between the major films—particularly within established periods such as the Original Trilogy timeline. These comics fill the gaps between key events, helping to construct a more cohesive and detailed history of the galaxy.
Conclusion
In summary, 2026 promises to be an exciting year for Star Wars fans, featuring a wealth of films, television series, and comic books that continue and expand upon beloved storylines. From the return of The Mandalorian and Grogu to fresh explorations of Darth Maul, Ahsoka, and unique animated narratives, 2026 will further solidify Star Wars' enduring appeal for audiences both old and new.
