Disney and Lucasfilm are launching a new storytelling initiative spanning content and consumer products to celebrate the heroes of a galaxy far, far away: Star Wars Forces of Destiny. Developed by Lucasfilm Animation, these tales will stay true to canon, and show how choices both big and small ultimately shaped the destinies of favorite characters.
In July, a micro-series of animated Star Wars Forces of Destiny shorts will debut on Disney YouTube, spotlighting key characters including Rey, Jyn Erso, Sabine Wren, Princess Leia, Ahsoka Tano and others in all-new adventures. Fans will hear some familiar voices in these cartoon adventures: Daisy Ridley (Rey), Felicity Jones (Jyn), Tiya Sircar (Sabine), Ashley Eckstein (Ahsoka) and Lupiti Nyong’o (Maz Kanata as narrator) are all reprising roles.
“Star Wars Forces of Destiny is for anyone who has been inspired by Leia’s heroism, Rey’s courage, or Ahsoka’s tenacity,” said Kathleen Kennedy, President of Lucasfilm. “We’re thrilled that so many of the original actors are reprising their roles in these shorts which capture the small moments and everyday decisions that shape who these characters are. It is a fun new way for people to experience Star Wars.”
A two-part special of eight additional shorts will air on Disney Channel this fall. Scroll down to check out a behind-the-scenes first look at the series.
Star Wars Forces of Destiny will be bolstered by a global consumer product rollout of books, apparel, bedding and toys — including a new line of “Adventure Figures” from Hasbro. Bridging the gap between action figures and dolls, each Adventure Figure features dynamic, individualized action, plus multiple points of articulation to help recreate each character’s adventures and heroic moments. The 11-inch figures wil depict Rey, Jyn, Leia, Sabine, BB-8, Chewbacca, Kylo Ren and many more. Hasbro is also rolling out Forces of Destiny role play and accessories, Rey’s Extendable Staff, to a new, electronic Jedi Power Lightsaber, which are part of the Star Wars Bladebuilders system.
Fans attending Star Wars Celebration in Orlando can sneak peek Star Wars Forces of Destiny during the “Heroines of Star Wars” panel on Friday, April 14. The panel, moderated by Amy Ratcliffe, host of “Lattes with Leia” podcast, will feature Carrie Beck (VP of animation at Lucasfilm) and Dave Filoni (EP of Star Wars Rebels), Ashley Eckstein, Tiya Sircar and other surprise guests. Hasbro will also be showcasing the new toy line at booth #2744.
