Lucasfilm has been trying to bring a new Star Wars film to theaters for five years. So far the defeats have predominated. The biggest glimmer of hope emerged at the Star Wars Celebration 2023 in London, when three new projects announced for the big screen, including a film about Rey Skywalker.
There were also three theatrical releases later:
Industry circles expected the Rey film to hit theaters in December 2026. However, after the third screenwriter left, doubts arose that the planned schedule could no longer be adhered to. Now we have indirect confirmation of this suspicion: the theatrical release has been canceled.
The Rey film will definitely not be released in cinemas in 2026: Lucasfilm disputes the Star Wars theatrical release
As Variety reports, Lucasfilm has walked away from the December 2026 release that was most likely intended for the Rey film. Ice Age 6 from 20th Century Studios (just like Lucasfilm at Disney) takes over the vacated position. So stay only two Star Wars theatrical releases left.
The Mandalorian & Grogu is set for May 2026 and is on schedule according to recent updates. What will happen with the launch in December 2027 is unclear. It would be conceivable that the Rey film would come a year later. The Dawn of the Jedi film directed by James Mangold may also take the place.
Mangold’s project has been very quiet so far, which makes it difficult to assess the status quo. However, the situation with the Rey film is even more complicated, as several Star Wars films are currently competing for the character played by Daisy Ridley, as the Hollywood Reporter broke down this week.
Unexpected Dilemma: Every Star Wars movie wants Rey, but none of them really move forward
Officially, Ridley’s return is only confirmed for the aforementioned Rey film, which is being directed by Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy. Additionally, there have been rumors that Rey could appear in Shawn Levy’s Star Wars film, not to mention the new trilogy being overseen by producer Simon Kinberg.
The Kinberg trilogy is currently causing the greatest confusion. Is this episodes 10, 11 and 12 or a completely new story? The Rey film may even merge with Kinberg’s trilogy. Hollywood trade paper sources disagree. Lucasfilm has not yet made a statement about this.