Darth Maul, the iconic villain from the Star Wars universe, is set to headline his own animated series titled Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord. The announcement was made during the 20th anniversary panel for Lucasfilm Animation at Star Wars Celebration Japan on April 18, 2025. This new series promises to explore an intriguing period in Maul's life, taking place between the events of The Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels.
Fans of the franchise first encountered Maul in 1999’s Star Wars: The Phantom Menace, where his striking appearance, complete with red skin, horns, and a double-bladed lightsaber, left a lasting impression. Despite his apparent demise at the hands of Obi-Wan Kenobi, Maul's character was resurrected in the animated series The Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels, where he was further developed with a rich backstory involving a criminal underworld.
During the panel, attendees were treated to a sizzle reel that showcased the new series. The footage revealed that Maul will be training a new Padawan apprentice, a classic Sith trope that hints at the dark themes the series will explore. Sam Witwer, who voiced Maul in previous animated series, will reprise his role in Maul – Shadow Lord. Witwer was present at the event and expressed his excitement for returning to the character.
In a notable scene from the trailer, Maul is shown battling the ex-Inquisitor Marrok, who ominously states, “So it’s true. You live.” This confrontation sets the stage for what promises to be an action-packed narrative filled with intrigue and revenge.
The series is set to debut in 2026 on Disney+, marking another significant addition to the Star Wars animated universe. The announcement of Maul – Shadow Lord comes at a time when Lucasfilm Animation has been celebrating two decades of storytelling, having produced beloved series such as The Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels.
Dave Filoni, Chief Creative Officer of Lucasfilm, reflected on the history of the animation division during the panel. He quoted George Lucas, who often encouraged creativity by saying, “Dare to be great.” Filoni emphasized how the animation division has played a crucial role in keeping the Star Wars legacy alive, especially during periods when live-action projects were sparse.
In addition to Maul – Shadow Lord, the panel also teased other upcoming projects. Ryan Gosling was announced as the lead in a new live-action Star Wars film titled Star Wars: Starfighter, which is set to begin production in the fall of 2025. This standalone story will take place approximately five years after the events of The Rise of Skywalker. Gosling expressed his enthusiasm for the project, describing the script as “so good” and filled with “heart and adventure.”
The excitement surrounding Maul's new series is palpable, as fans have long awaited a deeper exploration of his character and the underworld he inhabits. The series will delve into the rise and fall of Maul's criminal syndicate, which operates in the shadows, away from the Empire's watchful eyes. This darker tone is something that previous Star Wars animated series have flirted with, and it seems that Maul – Shadow Lord will continue that tradition.
As the Star Wars universe expands, the legacy of its animated storytelling remains strong. Lucasfilm's animation team has grown significantly over the years, with teams now established in Singapore, Tokyo, and Taipei. This international collaboration has allowed for a diverse range of stories and styles, enriching the overall tapestry of the Star Wars saga.
In addition to the new series, Lucasfilm has several other projects on the horizon. The highly anticipated second season of Andor is set to debut on April 22, 2025, while the return of Ahsoka is also on the agenda for 2026. As fans eagerly await these releases, the announcement of Maul – Shadow Lord adds yet another layer of excitement to the ever-expanding Star Wars narrative.
With a blend of nostalgia and fresh storytelling, Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord is poised to captivate both longtime fans and newcomers to the franchise. As the series approaches its release, many are left wondering how Maul's journey will unfold and what new depths will be explored within the Star Wars universe.
As the countdown to 2026 begins, the Star Wars community is abuzz with anticipation. Will Maul's quest for vengeance and power resonate with audiences? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the legacy of Darth Maul is far from over.
