Star Wars fans are in for a treat as the iconic villain Darth Maul is set to return in a brand-new animated series titled Maul: Shadow Lord. This exciting announcement was made during the Lucasfilm Animation panel at Star Wars Celebration in Tokyo on April 18, 2025. The series, which is currently in production, is expected to premiere on Disney+ in 2026.
Darth Maul, who first captivated audiences in the 1999 film Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace, will be voiced once again by Sam Witwer. Witwer has portrayed the character in various iterations, including the animated series The Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels, as well as in the 2018 film Solo: A Star Wars Story. His return to voice the character marks a continuation of a legacy that has spanned over two decades.
The new series is set after the events of the final season of The Clone Wars, and it follows Maul as he attempts to rebuild his criminal syndicate on a planet untouched by the Empire. According to a brief synopsis, “After the Clone Wars, Maul plots to rebuild his criminal syndicate on a planet untouched by the Empire.” This storyline promises to delve deeper into Maul's character and the complexities of his rise to power.
During the panel, attendees were treated to a sneak peek of the series, which showcased a new animation style that features rough lines and ragged edges. This aesthetic evolution is a departure from the more polished visuals of previous series, providing a fresh look that aligns with the gritty themes of the underworld factions Maul will lead.
One of the highlights of the trailer was a scene showing Maul training a young Twi’lek girl, who appears to be his future apprentice. This subplot not only adds depth to Maul's character but also hints at the potential for exploring new narratives within the Star Wars universe. The series may even touch on Maul's childhood and the origin story of Darth Talon, a character that has intrigued fans for years.
The trailer also included intense sequences involving gang wars and chases through a bustling city planet, reminiscent of Coruscant. Fans were thrilled to see Maul's strategic mind at work as he navigates the criminal underworld, revealing himself as a master architect behind various operations. The series will also feature encounters with the Inquisitorius, including a showdown with Marrok, a character from Ahsoka.
Fans attending the panel expressed their excitement on social media, with one user exclaiming, "YESSSS THANK YOU DISNEY!! THIS IS WHAT WE WANTED!!!" Another tweeted, "I feel the force in this Chilis tonight," capturing the palpable enthusiasm surrounding the announcement.
Maul's journey from being sliced in half by Obi-Wan Kenobi to establishing himself as a major crime boss is a narrative that many fans have been eager to see explored in greater detail. The series promises to fill in the gaps of Maul's history, particularly following his survival revealed in The Clone Wars. This exploration of his character is timely, as fans are eager for more stories that delve into the darker aspects of the Star Wars universe.
As the anticipation builds for Maul: Shadow Lord, fans are left wondering what other surprises Lucasfilm has in store for the future of the franchise. With the series set to debut in 2026, there’s plenty of time for speculation and excitement to grow.
In conclusion, Maul: Shadow Lord is poised to be a significant addition to the Star Wars canon, offering a fresh perspective on one of its most beloved characters. With Sam Witwer back to voice Maul and a promising storyline that explores his rise in the criminal underworld, fans can look forward to an engaging and thrilling adventure.
