Star Wars Celebration 2025, held in Japan, was a pivotal event that unveiled exciting new projects in the Star Wars universe, including a surprise anime series and the highly anticipated return of *Star Wars: Visions* with its third season.
Surprise Star Wars Anime Series Revealed
Among the most unexpected announcements was the reveal of a new Star Wars anime series, *Maul: Shadow Lord*. This animated series is set to premiere in 2026 on Disney+, continuing the saga of the former Sith Lord, Maul. The story picks up after the Clone Wars, focusing on Maul’s efforts to rebuild his criminal empire on a remote planet, all while mentoring a new apprentice. The series promises to delve deeper into Maul’s character, exploring themes of redemption and power. Sam Witwer is set to reprise his role as Maul, bringing continuity to the character’s portrayal in the Star Wars franchise.
The announcement of *Maul: Shadow Lord* highlights Lucasfilm’s commitment to expanding the Star Wars universe through diverse storytelling mediums, blending traditional narratives with anime’s unique artistic style.
Star Wars: Visions* Volume 3 – Release Date and Details
Another major highlight was the confirmation of *Star Wars: Visions* Volume 3, set to premiere on Disney+ on October 29, 2025. This new season will feature nine episodes, including sequels to fan-favorite shorts like “The Duel,” “The Village Bride,” and “The Ninth Jedi.” The latter will also receive its own spin-off series, *Visions Presents – The Ninth Jedi*, slated for release in 2026.
Volume 3 continues the series’ tradition of collaborating with renowned Japanese animation studios. Returning studios include Kamikaze Douga, Kinema Citrus Co., Production I.G, and TRIGGER. New additions to the lineup are ANIMA (in co-production with Kamikaze Douga), david production, Polygon Pictures, Project Studio Q, and WIT Studio. This diverse group of studios ensures a rich variety of artistic styles and storytelling approaches, promising a visually stunning and narratively engaging season.
What to Expect from Volume 3
Fans can anticipate a blend of familiar characters and new narratives. The sequels to “The Duel,” “The Village Bride,” and “The Ninth Jedi” will explore the aftermath of the events in these shorts, providing deeper insights into the characters’ journeys. Additionally, the new episodes are expected to introduce original stories that expand the Star Wars universe, offering fresh perspectives and innovative storytelling techniques.
The collaboration with multiple anime studios allows for a diverse range of animation styles, from traditional hand-drawn techniques to cutting-edge digital animation. This variety not only enhances the visual appeal of the series but also enriches the storytelling, as each studio brings its unique cultural influences and artistic sensibilities to the table.
Expanding the Star Wars Universe
The announcements at Star Wars Celebration 2025 underscore Lucasfilm’s dedication to expanding the Star Wars universe through innovative storytelling and diverse artistic expressions. The introduction of *Maul: Shadow Lord* adds depth to the character of Maul, exploring his complexities beyond his previous appearances. Meanwhile, *Visions* Volume 3 continues to push the boundaries of animated storytelling, offering fans new and exciting narratives that enrich the Star Wars saga.
These projects reflect a broader trend in the entertainment industry, where traditional franchises are embracing diverse mediums and cultural influences to tell more inclusive and varied stories. By incorporating anime’s distinct storytelling techniques and artistic styles, Star Wars is able to reach new audiences and offer fresh experiences to long-time fans.
Upcoming Releases
* **Maul: Shadow Lord** – Premieres in 2026 on Disney+
* **Star Wars: Visions Volume 3** – Premieres on October 29, 2025, on Disney+
* **Visions Presents – The Ninth Jedi** – Premieres in 2026 on Disney+([Wikipedia][1], [GamesRadar+][2])
These upcoming releases promise to deliver compelling stories and stunning visuals, further enriching the expansive Star Wars universe.
