Lucasfilm If you’ve been anywhere near social media, you’ve seen by now, the slurry of announcements and reveals, confirmations and MORE reveals. Here is a listing of EVERY title that was announced at the Walt Disney Company’s Investor Day event.
LUCASFILM
Introducing the Disney+ slate, Kennedy said, “We have a vast and expansive timeline in the Star Wars mythology spanning over 25,000 years of history in the galaxy—with each era being a rich resource for storytelling. Now with Disney+, we can explore limitless story possibilities like never before and fulfill the promise that there is truly a Star Wars story for everyone.” Among the 10 projects announced for Disney+ is “Obi-Wan Kenobi,” starring Ewan McGregor, with Hayden Christensen returning as Darth Vader, in what Kennedy called, “the rematch of the century.” Also announced are two new series from Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni, off-shoots of the multiple Emmy®-winning “The Mandalorian.” “Rangers of the New Republic” and “Ahsoka,” a series featuring the fan-favorite character Ahsoka Tano, will take place in “The Mandalorian” timeline.
Kennedy announced that the next Star Wars feature film, releasing in December 2023, will be “Rogue Squadron,” which will be directed by Patty Jenkins of the “Wonder Woman” franchise. In July 2022, the next installment of the “Indiana Jones” franchise premieres, starring Harrison Ford, who reprises his iconic role. The film is directed by James Mangold.
LUCASFILM on DISNEY+
After making her long-awaited, live-action debut in “The Mandalorian,” Ahsoka Tano’s story, written by Dave Filoni, will continue in a limited series, Ahsoka, starring Rosario Dawson and executive produced by Dave Filoni and Jon Favreau.
Set within the timeline of “The Mandalorian,” Rangers of the New Republic is a new live-action series from executive producers Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni that will intersect with future stories and culminate into a climactic story event.
Andor, a tense nail-biting spy thriller created by Tony Gilroy, is set to arrive on Disney+ in 2022. Diego Luna, reprising the role of rebel spy Cassian Andor from “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story,” will be joined by a fantastic new cast that includes Stellan Skarsgård, Adria Arjona, Fiona Shaw, Denise Gough, Kyle Soller and Genevieve O’Reilly as Mon Mothma.
Ewan McGregor returns in the iconic role of Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi for a special event series on Disney+. Officially titled Obi-Wan Kenobi, the series begins 10 years after the dramatic events of “Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith” where he faced his greatest defeat, the downfall and corruption of his best friend and Jedi apprentice, Anakin Skywalker turned evil Sith Lord Darth Vader. The series is directed by Deborah Chow, who helmed memorable episodes of “The Mandalorian,” Season 1, and features the return of Hayden Christensen as Darth Vader.
The Bad Batch follows the elite and experimental clones of the Bad Batch (first introduced in “The Clone Wars”) as they find their way in a rapidly changing galaxy in the immediate aftermath of the Clone War. Members of Bad Batch—a unique squad of clones who vary genetically from their brothers in the Clone Army—each possess a singular exceptional skill that makes them extraordinarily effective soldiers and a formidable crew. In the post-Clone War era, they will take on daring mercenary missions as they struggle to stay afloat and find new purpose. This animated series will arrive exclusively on Disney+.
Presenting all-new, creative takes on the galaxy far, far away, Star Wars: Visions will be a series of animated short films celebrating Star Wars through the lens of the world’s best anime creators. The anthology collection will bring 10 fantastic visions from several of the leading Japanese anime studios, offering a fresh and diverse cultural perspective to Star Wars.
The galaxy’s favorite scoundrel, Lando Calrissian, will return in Lando, a brand-new event series for Disney+. Justin Simien, creator of the critically-acclaimed “Dear White People” and a huge Star Wars fan, is in the early stages of developing the project.
Leslye Headland, Emmy Award®-nominated creator of the mind-bending series “Russian Doll,” brings a new Star Wars series to Disney+ with The Acolyte. The Acolyte is a mystery-thriller that will take viewers into a galaxy of shadowy secrets and emerging dark-side powers in the final days of the High Republic era.
As Lucasfilm continues to develop new stories, the intersection of animation and visual effects offers new opportunities to explore. Lucasfilm Animation is teaming up with Lucasfilm’s visual effects team, Industrial Light & Magic, to develop a special Star Wars adventure film for Disney+, A Droid Story. This epic journey will introduce us to a new hero, guided by legendary duo R2-D2 and C-3PO.
Willow, set decades after Ron Howard’s 1988 movie, continues the spirit of adventure, heroics and humor of the original film in this new series debuting on Disney+ in 2022. Warwick Davis will return in the role of the great sorcerer, Willow Ufgood, with Jon Chu (director of the groundbreaking “Crazy Rich Asians”) directing the pilot.
LUCASFILM FEATURE FILMS
Indiana Jones
Lucasfilm is currently in pre-production on the next installment of Indiana Jones. At the helm is James Mangold, director of the Academy Award®-winning “Ford v Ferrari,” and Indy himself, Harrison Ford, will be back to continue his iconic character’s journey. Indy will arrive July 2022.
Children of Blood & Bone
The Lucasfilm catalog is expanding further with a story that will introduce a new hero and explore an original world that feels perfectly paired with Lucasfilm storytelling: Tomi Adeyemi’s New York Times bestselling novel Children of Blood & Bone. The story will center on a young African girl’s heart-racing quest to restore magic to her forsaken people, the Maji. Lucasfilm will partner with 20th Century Studios on this coming-of- age adventure.
New Star Wars Feature
A brand-new Star Wars feature with acclaimed filmmaker and Academy Award® winner Taika Waititi is in development. “Taika’s approach to Star Wars will be fresh, unexpected, and…unique,” said Kathleen Kennedy. “His enormous talent and sense of humor will ensure that audiences are in for an unforgettable ride.”
Rogue Squadron
The next Star Wars feature film to hit the big screen will be Rogue Squadron, directed by Patty Jenkins. The story will introduce a new generation of starfighter pilots as they earn their wings and risk their lives in a boundary-pushing, high-speed thrill-ride, and move the saga into the future era of the galaxy. Rogue Squadron arrives in theaters Christmas 2023.
Disney
Today at The Walt Disney Company’s Investor Day event, Sean Bailey, President, Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture Production, unveiled myriad exciting feature films in the works under the Disney banner. In his opening remarks, Bailey said, “There are so many incredible dimensions to this company, and my team and I have the honor of getting to focus on a treasure trove of iconic characters and stories that spring from the Disney imagination, as we continue to build on Disney’s singular legacy of creating magic for audiences worldwide.”
Among the projects filling the Disney+ slate are “Hocus Pocus 2,” a sequel to the 1993 Halloween cult classic, directed by Adam Shankman; a live-action take on “Pinocchio,” directed by Robert Zemeckis and starring Tom Hanks; an animated “Night at the Museum,” with Shawn Levy attached to produce; “Cheaper by the Dozen,” a reimagining of the hit comedy with “black-ish” producer Kenya Barris; “Chip N’ Dale: Rescue Rangers,” a hybrid live-action-animated feature; “Sister Act 3,” the third film in the beloved “Sister Act” series, with Whoopi Goldberg on board to star and produce with Tyler Perry; and “Peter Pan & Wendy,” directed by David Lowery and starring Jude Law and Yara Shahidi.
Previously announced up-and-coming features include “Jungle Cruise,” starring Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt and directed by Jaume Collet-Serra; the Rob Marshall–directed “The Little Mermaid”; a live-action prequel to “The Lion King,” with Barry Jenkins on board to direct; and “Cruella,” starring Emma Stone, with Craig Gillespie at the helm.
Following are the Disney Live Action projects, listed in order of announcement:
Hocus Pocus 2
Hocus Pocus 2, exclusively on Disney+, is the spooky sequel to the 1993 Halloween cult classic “Hocus Pocus.” Adam Shankman is set to direct.
Three Men and a Baby
Three Men and a Baby, a modern take on the hilarious ’80s comedy, will star Zac Efron and is slated for a 2022 release on Disney+.
Safety
Safety, premiering tomorrow, December 11, on Disney+, is a drama inspired by the empowering story of former Clemson University football safety Ray McELrathBey, a young man facing a series of challenging circumstances, whose dedication and persistence help him to triumph over repeated adversities. “Marshall” director Reginald Hudlin helms the uplifting drama.
The Keanon Lowe project
The Keanon Lowe project, coming to Disney+, is inspired by the incredible real-life story of a high school coach who averted tragedy through compassion. Dwayne Johnson, Dany Garcia and Hiram Garcia are on board as producers for the project through their Seven Bucks Productions.
Greek Freak
Greek Freak heads into production next year for Disney+. It is the remarkable story of NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo and his family, who lifted themselves out of poverty as undocumented immigrants living in Greece. Ultimately, Giannis finds himself on the world stage.
The Chris Paul project
The Chris Paul project is a biographical film in development for Disney+ about NBA superstar Chris Paul. It follows Paul’s deeply moving story of family, legacy and destiny that helped make him who he is today.
Flora & Ulysses
Flora & Ulysses is a delightful comedy-adventure based on the Newbery Award–winning book about 10-year-old Flora, an avid comic book fan and a self-avowed cynic, who rescues a squirrel with unique superhero powers. Flora & Ulysses stars Matilda Lawler and is directed by Lena Khan (“The Tiger Hunter”). The film makes its debut on Disney+ February 19, 2021.
Cheaper by the Dozen
Cheaper by the Dozen, a reimagining of the hit comedy with “black-ish” producer Kenya Barris, will air on Disney+ in 2022. The story centers on a multiracial, blended family of 12, navigating a hectic home life while managing their family business. Gabrielle Union is set to star.
Diary of a Wimpy Kid
Diary of a Wimpy Kid, which has spawned a successful live-action film franchise from the popular books, comes to Disney+ in 2021 as an all-new animated film.
The Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild
The Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild, exclusively for Disney+, is a spin-off of the popular “Ice Age” franchise from 20th Century Studios. The story centers on three series favorites: the prankster possum brothers Crash and Eddie, and the swashbuckling titular weasel, Buck. Simon Pegg will be returning in the role of Buck. The Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild is slated for an early 2022 release.
Night at the Museum
Night at the Museum comes to Disney+ with a new twist: this time it’s animated. Shawn Levy, who has helped shape the blockbuster franchise as director of the previous films, and is also helming 20th Century Studios’ upcoming “Free Guy,” is on board as a producer. Night at the Museum launches on Disney+ in 2021.
Jungle Cruise
Jungle Cruise takes audiences on a rollicking thrill-ride down the Amazon with wisecracking skipper Frank Wolff and intrepid researcher Dr. Lily Houghton. Jaume Collet-Serra directs the film, which stars Dwayne Johnson, Emily Blunt, Edgar Ramirez, Jack Whitehall, with Jesse Plemons, and Paul Giamatti. Disney’s Jungle Cruise is slated for July 2021.
The Lion King live-action prequel
The Lion King live-action prequel is in development with an inspired take that revisits the iconic characters. Barry Jenkins, director of the Oscar®-winning “Moonlight,” is set to helm the film. Hans Zimmer (whose long association with “The Lion King” goes back to the 1994 original), Pharrell Williams and Nicholas Britell will deliver the music.
The Little Mermaid
The Little Mermaid returns Rob Marshall to the Disney fold with a live-action take on the animated classic. In the title role is multitalented singer and actor Halle Bailey, alongside a talented cast that includes Awkwafina, Daveed Diggs, Jacob Tremblay, with Javier Bardem and Melissa McCarthy. The film will feature the beloved Menken-Ashman songs from the animated original and some all-new music from Alan Menken and Lin- Manuel Miranda as well.
Chip N’ Dale: Rescue Rangers
Chip N’ Dale: Rescue Rangers, a hybrid live-action-animated feature for Disney+, is in development. Akiva Schaffer (“Popstar”) directs, and John Mulaney and Andy Samberg are set to star in the title roles with Seth Rogen doing a cameo. Chip N’ Dale: Rescue Rangers is slated for spring 2022.
Pinocchio
Pinocchio is coming to Disney+ in a compelling new live-action retelling that will leverage state-of-the art CGI to bring Pinocchio to life. A living puppet, with the help of a cricket as his conscience, must prove himself worthy to become a real boy in a musical remake of the Disney animated classic. Robert Zemeckis directs and Tom Hanks stars.
Peter Pan & Wendy
Peter Pan & Wendy, inspired by the Disney animated classic, has David Lowery (“Pete’s Dragon”) at the helm. A young girl rebels against “growing up” by going with her two brothers to a magical land ruled by an ageless boy obsessed with adventure who is locked in an ongoing battle with a pirate captain. The cast includes Jude Law as Captain Hook and Yara Shahidi (“black-ish,” “grown-ish”) in the role of Tinker Bell. The film will premiere on Disney+.
Disenchanted
Disenchanted, a sequel to the hit film “Enchanted,” will stream exclusively on Disney+. Amy Adams returns as Giselle, who found her life flipped upside down when she fell out of her animated fantasy world and discovered herself stuck in real-life Manhattan.
Sister Act 3
Sister Act 3, the third film in the beloved “Sister Act” series, is in development. Whoopi Goldberg is on board to star and produce, with Tyler Perry also signed on as a producer on the project. Sister Act 3 will premiere on Disney+.
Cruella
Cruella dives into the rebellious early days of one of the most notorious—and notoriously fashionable— villains, the legendary Cruella de Vil. Oscar® winner Emma Stone stars as Estella, aka Cruella, opposite Oscar winner Emma Thompson as the Baroness, the head of a prestigious fashion house who plucks Estella from obscurity as a burgeoning designer. It’s set against the backdrop of 1970s punk-rock London, and director Craig Gillespie delivers a unique take on this one-of-a-kind villain. Cruella is coming in 2021.
Walt Disney Animation Studios
Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Chief Creative Officer Jennifer Lee made several announcements today, including the studio’s next feature film, its first foray into animated series and a first-of-its-kind collaboration with a Pan-African entertainment company. Upcoming projects will introduce audiences to all-new characters and worlds, as well as revisit some of the most beloved from Disney’s legacy of films. Said Lee, “From Kumandra to Colombia, San Fransokyo to Zootopia, from New Orleans to the Pacific Islands, to a sci-fi world in Africa, the story possibilities for the near century-old Disney Animation are more limitless than ever.”
Lee shared new details about “Encanto,” an original film slated for theaters in November 2021, that includes new songs by Emmy®, GRAMMY® and Tony Award® winner Lin-Manuel Miranda. “For our 60th feature, magical realism sets the stage, and, yes, it is a musical stage, as we travel to Colombia, where a magical family—the Madrigals—live in an equally magical home,” said Lee. “Our film is called ‘Encanto.’ Why? Because an Encanto is a charmed place, born of its unique wonders, where life itself is wondrous.”
Following are the projects presented, listed in chronological order.
Raya and the Last Dragon
Raya and the Last Dragon, which will be released on March 5, 2021, simultaneously in theaters and on Disney+ with Premier Access, travels to the fantasy world of Kumandra, where humans and dragons lived together long ago in harmony. But when an evil force threatened the land, the dragons sacrificed themselves to save humanity. Now, 500 years later, that same evil has returned and it’s up to a lone warrior, Raya, to track down the legendary last dragon to restore the fractured land and its divided people. However, along her journey, she’ll learn that it’ll take more than a dragon to save the world—it’s going to take trust and teamwork as well. Raya and the Last Dragon features the voices of Kelly Marie Tran as Raya, a warrior whose wit is as sharp as her blade, and Awkwafina as magical, mythical, self-deprecating dragon named Sisu. Newly revealed characters from the film include a street-savvy 10-year-old entrepreneur named Boun, the formidable giant Tong, and a thieving toddler Noi with her band of Ongis. The feature film is directed by Don Hall and Carlos López Estrada and produced by Osnat Shurer and Peter Del Vecho.
Encanto
Encanto tells the tale of an extraordinary family, the Madrigals, who live hidden in the mountains of Colombia, in a magical house, in a vibrant town, in a wondrous, charmed place called an Encanto. The magic of the Encanto has blessed every child in the family with a unique gift from super strength to the power to heal—every child except one, Mirabel. But when she discovers that the magic surrounding the Encanto is
in danger, Mirabel decides that she, the only ordinary Madrigal, might just be her exceptional family’s last hope. The film features all-new songs by Emmy®, GRAMMY® and Tony Award® winner Lin-Manuel Miranda (“Hamilton,” “Moana”) and is directed by Byron Howard (“Zootopia,” “Tangled”) and Jared Bush (co-director “Zootopia”), co-directed by Charise Castro Smith (writer “The Death of Eva Sofia Valdez”) and produced by Clark Spencer and Yvett Merino. Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Encanto opens in theaters November 24, 2021.
Baymax
Baymax, Walt Disney Animation Studios’ first-ever animated series, takes place in the fantastical city of San Fransokyo and features fan favorite healthcare bot, Baymax. Created by Don Hall, the Oscar®-winning director of “Big Hero 6,” Baymax premieres on Disney+ in early 2022.
Zootopia+
Zootopia+ heads back to the fast-paced mammal metropolis of Zootopia in a short-form series directed by Trent Correy and Josie Trinidad. Zootopia+ dives deeper into the lives of some of the feature film’s most intriguing characters, including Fru Fru, the newly married arctic shrew; Gazelle’s talented tiger dancers; and the sloth full of surprises, Flash. The short-form series debuts on Disney+ in Spring 2022.
Iwájú
Iwájú is an all-new original series coming to Disney+ in 2022. The series is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pan-African comic book entertainment company Kugali and its founders Tolu Olowofoyeku, Ziki Nelson and Hamid Ibrahim. Iwájú, which roughly translates to “The Future” in the Yoruba language, is steeped in science fiction. The long-form series is set in Lagos, Nigeria, exploring deep themes of class, innocence and challenging the status quo. Says director Ziki Nelson, “This show will combine Disney’s magic and animation expertise with Kugali’s fire and storytelling authenticity. Iwájú represents a personal childhood dream of mine to tell my story and that of my people.”
Tiana
Tiana, coming to Disney+ in 2023, is a long-form musical-comedy series featuring the extraordinary entrepreneur who’s now princess of the kingdom Maldonia. The all-new adventures explore both Maldonia and Tiana’s beloved hometown, New Orleans. Tiana is the first princess to have her own Walt Disney Animation Studios series.
Moana, The Series
Moana, The Series, coming to Disney+ in 2023, is a new long-form musical series that follows spirited voyager Moana as she ventures far beyond the reef. The studio is once again connecting with storytellers from the Pacific Islands to help tell the stories of wayfinding and other traditions brought to life for generations through oral storytelling.
PIXAR
Pixar Animation Studios’ Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter shared details about the Northern California studio’s upcoming slate of original series for Disney+ and feature films. “Today, I’m excited to introduce you to a bunch of fresh, new filmmakers,” said Docter. “Getting their voices on the screen is our key focus right now – while at the same time allowing our veteran filmmakers to continue to do their great work. And I think that’s what we do best at Pixar: Honoring tradition, while at the same time innovating for the future.”
Among the upcoming titles was Pixar’s first-ever long-form animated series “Win or Lose,” which debuts exclusively on Disney+ in Fall 2023. Also revealed for the first time were two brand-new feature films slated for 2022, including Academy Award®-winning director Domee Shi’s “Turning Red,” and “Lightyear,” the definitive origin story of the hero that inspired the toy. Chris Evans will voice the hero on his journey to becoming the most famous Space Ranger ever.
Following are the projects presented, listed in chronological order.
Inside Pixar
Inside Pixar is a new documentary series that invites Pixar fans into the studio for an up-close, never-before- seen look at the artistry, craftsmanship and storytellers behind beloved films. The first five episodes are currently available on Disney+ with more scheduled to release soon.
Soul
Soul, available exclusively on Disney+ beginning December 25, 2020, explores themes like appreciating the simple joys of life and finding one’s unique spark. Directed by Docter, the film introduces Joe Gardner (voice of Jamie Foxx), a middle-school band teacher who gets the chance of a lifetime to play at the best jazz club in town. But one small misstep takes him from the streets of New York City to The Great Before – a fantastical place where new souls get their personalities, quirks and interests before they go to Earth. Determined to return to his life, Joe teams up with a precocious soul, 22 (voice of Tina Fey), who has never understood the appeal of the human experience. As Joe desperately tries to show 22 what’s great about living, he may just discover the answers to some of life’s most important questions. Soul is co-directed by Kemp Powers (“One Night in Miami”) and produced by Academy Award® nominee Dana Murray, p.g.a. (Pixar short “Lou”).
Burrow
Burrow is part of Pixar’s collection of shorts called SparkShorts that are created by a diverse group of storytellers. Debuting exclusively on Disney+ on December 25, 2020, Burrow features a young rabbit who embarks on a journey to dig the burrow of her dreams, despite not having a clue what she’s doing. Rather than reveal to her neighbors her imperfections, she digs herself deeper and deeper into trouble. After hitting (bed)rock bottom, she learns there is no shame in asking for help. The new short is directed by Madeline Sharafian and produced by Mike Capbarat.
Pixar Popcorn
Pixar Popcorn, coming to Disney+ in January 2021, is a collection of mini shorts featuring Pixar characters in all-new, bite-size stories created by Pixar’s talented animators.
Luca
Luca, a new original feature film opening June 18, 2021, celebrates the universal theme of friendship. Set in a beautiful seaside town on the Italian Riviera, it is a coming-of-age story about one young boy experiencing an unforgettable summer filled with gelato, pasta and endless scooter rides. Luca shares these adventures with his newfound best friend, but all the fun is threatened by a deeply-held secret: they are sea monsters from another world just below the water’s surface. Luca is directed by Academy Award® nominee Enrico Casarosa (Pixar short “La Luna”) and produced by Andrea Warren (Pixar short “Lava,” “Cars 3”).
Dug Days
Dug Days, which premieres exclusively on Disney+ in Fall 2021, is a new collection of shorts that follows the humorous misadventures of Dug, the lovable dog from Disney and Pixar’s “Up.” Each short features everyday events that occur in and around Dug’s backyard, all through the exciting (and delightfully distorted) eyes
of our favorite talking dog. The shorts are written and directed by Academy Award® nominee and Emmy® Award winner Bob Peterson and produced by Kim Collins.
Turning Red
Turning Red, a new feature film opening in theaters on March 11, 2022, introduces Mei Lee, a confident, dorky 13-year-old torn between staying her mother’s dutiful daughter and the chaos of adolescence. And as if changes to her interests, relationships and body weren’t enough, whenever she gets too excited (which for a teenager is practically ALWAYS), she “poofs” into a giant red panda! Turning Red is directed by Academy Award® winner Domee Shi (Pixar short “Bao”) and produced by Lindsey Collins.
Lightyear
Lightyear, slated to open in theaters on June 17, 2022, is a sci-fi action-adventure and the definitive origin story of Buzz Lightyear (voice of Chris Evans)—the hero who inspired the toy. The film reveals how a young test pilot became the Space Ranger that we all know him to be today. Lightyear is directed by Angus MacLane and produced by Galyn Susman.
Cars
Cars, coming to Disney+ in Fall 2022, is an all-new series that follows Lightning McQueen and his best friend Mater on a cross-country road trip. These episodes are filled with lots of fun new characters, imaginative destinations as well as old friends checking in along the way. The series is written by Steve Purcell and produced by Marc Sondheimer.
Win or Lose
Win or Lose, Pixar’s first-ever original long-form animated series, debuts on Disney+ in 2023. It follows a coed middle school softball team in the week leading up to their championship game. Each 20-minute episode highlights the perspective of a different character and explores the drama of bad calls made on and off the field. Written and directed by story artists Carrie Hobson and Michael Yates, and produced by David Lally, Win or Lose is a comedy about love, rivalry and the challenges we all face in our struggle to win at life.
Marvel Studios
Kevin Feige, president, Marvel Studios, and chief creative officer, Marvel, shared plans for the expansion and future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe—revealing details about upcoming content for both Disney+ and theaters. Said Feige, “The Cinematic Universe weaves storylines, heroes and villains across 23 feature films to date. And with Disney+, we’re able to extend this way of storytelling to a new format—creating series that are connected to our theatrical releases, making the MCU more immersive than ever.”
Among dozens of upcoming projects, Feige revealed three new series for Disney+, including the Samuel L. Jackson-starrer “Secret Invasion,” “Ironheart” with Dominique Thorne as a genius inventor, and “Armor Wars,” starring Don Cheadle as James Rhodes aka War Machine who faces Tony Stark’s worst fears. Feige announced a host of new feature films, including “Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania,” the third feature in the “Ant-Man” franchise, and “Fantastic Four,” which introduces Marvel’s most iconic family.
Following are the projects included, listed in chronological order under the Disney+ and feature films distribution headers.
DISNEY+ WandaVision
WandaVision, launching on Disney+ on January 15, 2021, is Marvel Studios’ first series that continues to expand the MCU. Wanda Maximoff and Vision are two super-powered beings are living idealized suburban lives, but begin to suspect everything is not as it seems. Starring Elizabeth Olsen, Paul Bettany, Kathryn Hahn, Teyonah Parris, Kat Dennings and Randall Park, WandaVision is directed by Matt Shakman; Jac Shaeffer is head writer.
The Falcon and The Winter Soldier
The Falcon and The Winter Soldier, kicking off on Disney+ March 19, 2021, is a new series starring Anthony Mackie as Sam Wilson aka The Falcon, and Sebastian Stan as Bucky Barnes aka The Winter Soldier. The pair, who came together in the final moments of “Avengers: Endgame,” team up on a global adventure that tests their abilities—and their patience. Directed by Kari Skogland with Malcolm Spellman serving as head writer, the six-episode series also stars Daniel Brühl as Baron Zemo, Emily VanCamp as Sharon Carter, and Wyatt Russell as John Walker.
Loki
Loki is set to debut on Disney+ in May 2021 featuring the God of Mischief as he steps out of his brother’s shadow in a new series that takes place after the events of “Avengers: Endgame.” Tom Hiddleston returns as the title character, joined by Owen Wilson, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Sophia Di Martino, Wunmi Mosaku and Richard E. Grant. Kate Herron directs Loki, and Michael Waldron is head writer.
What If…?
What If…? flips the script on the MCU, reimagining famous events from the films in unexpected ways. Coming to Disney+ in Summer 2021, Marvel Studios’ first animated series focuses on different heroes from the MCU, featuring a voice cast that includes a host of stars who reprise their roles. The series is directed by Bryan Andrews; Ashley Bradley is head writer.
Ms. Marvel
Ms. Marvel, launching on Disney+ in late 2021, is a new series that introduces Kamala Khan—a 16-year-old Pakistani-American growing up in Jersey City. A great student, an avid gamer and a voracious fan-fiction scribe, she has a special affinity for superheroes, particularly Captain Marvel. But Kamala struggles to fit in at home and at school—that is, until she gets super powers like the heroes she’s always looked up to. Life is easier with super powers, right? Iman Vellani stars as Kamala Khan aka Ms. Marvel; the cast also includes Aramis Knight, Saagar Shaikh, Rish Shah, Zenobia Shroff, Mohan Kapur, Matt Lintz, Yasmeen Fletcher, Laith Naki, Azher Usman, Travina Springer and Nimra Bucha. Episodes are directed by Adil El Arbi & Bilall Fallah, Meera Menon and Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy.
Hawkeye
Hawkeye, which debuts on Disney+ in late 2021, stars Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye, who teams up with another well-known archer from the Marvel comics, Kate Bishop, played by Hailee Steinfeld. The cast also includes Vera Farmiga, Fra Fee, Tony Dalton, Zahn McClarnon, Brian d’Arcy James and newcomer Alaqua Cox as Maya Lopez. Hawkeye is helmed by Rhys Thomas and directing duo Bert and Bertie.
She-Hulk
She-Hulk, a new comedy series coming to Disney+, stars Tatiana Maslany as She-Hulk/Jennifer Walters, a lawyer who specializes in superhuman-oriented legal cases. She-Hulk will welcome a host of Marvel characters to the series, including the Hulk, played by Mark Ruffalo, and the Abomination, played by Tim Roth. The series is directed by Kat Coiro and Anu Valia; Jessica Gao is head writer.
Moon Knight
Moon Knight is a new series created for Disney+. Directed by Mohamed Diab, the action-adventure features a complex vigilante who suffers from dissociative identity disorder. The multiple identities who live inside him are distinct characters who appear against a backdrop of Egyptian iconography.
Secret Invasion
Secret Invasion is a newly announced series heading to Disney+ that stars Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury and Ben Mendelsohn as the Skrull Talos—characters who first met in “Captain Marvel.” The crossover comic event series showcases a faction of shape-shifting Skrulls who have been infiltrating Earth for years.
Ironheart
Ironheart, the second of the newly announced series coming to Disney+, stars Dominique Thorne as Riri Williams, a genius inventor who creates the most advanced suit of armor since Iron Man.
Armor Wars
Armor Wars, based on the classic Marvel comic series, comes to Disney+ starring Don Cheadle as James Rhodes aka War Machine who must face what happens when Tony Stark’s tech falls into the wrong hands.
Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special
Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special, slated for Disney+ during the 2022 holiday season, is written and directed by “Guardians of the Galaxy” veteran James Gunn.
I Am Groot
I Am Groot features everyone’s favorite baby tree in a series of original shorts coming to Disney+.
FEATURE FILMS
Black Widow
Black Widow, opening May 7, 2021, stars Scarlett Johansson as Natasha Romanoff/Black Widow. The action- packed spy thriller chronicles Natasha’s efforts to deal with her history as a spy and the broken relationships left in her wake long before she became an Avenger. Directed by Cate Shortland, Black Widow also stars Florence Pugh as Yelena, David Harbour as Alexei/The Red Guardian, and Rachel Weisz as Melina.
Shang-Chi and The Legend of The Ten Rings
Shang-Chi and The Legend of The Ten Rings, opening July 9, 2021, stars Simu Liu as Shang-Chi, who must confront the past he thought he left behind when he is drawn into the web of the mysterious Ten Rings organization. Directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, Shang-Chi and The Legend of the Ten Rings also stars Tony Leung as Wenwu, Awkwafina as Shang-Chi’s friend Katy and Michelle Yeoh as Jiang Nan. The cast also includes Fala Chen, Meng’er Zhang, Florian Munteanu and Ronny Chieng.
Eternals
Eternals, opening November 5, 2021, is a feature film that features the MCU’s newest ensemble of Super Heroes in an epic story that spans thousands of years. Directed by Chloé Zhao, Eternals features a group of immortal heroes forced out of the shadows to reunite against mankind’s oldest enemy, The Deviants. The outstanding ensemble cast includes Richard Madden as the all-powerful Ikaris, Gemma Chan as humankind- loving Sersi, Kumail Nanjiani as cosmic-powered Kingo, Lauren Ridloff as the super-fast Makkari, Brian Tyree Henry as the intelligent inventor Phastos, Salma Hayek as the wise and spiritual leader Ajak, Lia McHugh as the eternally young, old-soul Sprite, Don Lee as the powerful Gilgamesh, Barry Keoghan as aloof loner Druig, and Angelina Jolie as the fierce warrior Thena. Kit Harington plays Dane Whitman.
Doctor Strange In The Multiverse of Madness
Doctor Strange In The Multiverse of Madness, debuting March 25, 2022, is currently in production starring Benedict Cumberbatch, Elizabeth Olsen, Benedict Wong, Rachel McAdams and Chiwetel Ejiofor. Xochitl Gomez joins them, portraying America Chavez, a new fan-favorite from the comics. Directed by Sam Raimi, the mind-bending adventure connects to the events of “WandaVision” and the upcoming Spider-Man film.
Thor: Love and Thunder
Thor: Love and Thunder, opening on May 6, 2022, begins filming next month with director Taika Waititi at the helm. Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman and Tessa Thompson return to their roles, joined by Christian Bale, who portrays villain Gorr the God Butcher.
Black Panther 2
Black Panther 2, opening on July 8, 2022, is being written and directed by Ryan Coogler. Honoring Chadwick Boseman’s legacy and portrayal of T’Challa, the Black Panther, Marvel Studios will not recast the character, but will continue to explore the incomparable world of Wakanda and all of the rich and varied characters introduced in the first film.
Blade
Blade is a new feature film starring Mahershala Ali in the title role.
Captain Marvel 2
Captain Marvel 2, a new feature film opening November 11, 2022, is directed by Nia DaCosta. Brie Larson stars as Carol Danvers, alongside Iman Vellani, who makes her debut in “Ms. Marvel,” and Teyonah Parris, who portrays grown-up Monica Rambeau—a character introduced as a child in “Captain Marvel” who returns to the MCU as an adult in “WandaVision.”
Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania
Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania will be helmed by Ant-Man director Peyton Reed, starring returning favorites Paul Rudd as Scott Lang/Ant-Man, Evangeline Lilly as Hope Van Dyne/Wasp, Michael Douglas as Dr. Hank Pym, and Michelle Pfeiffer as Janet Van Dyne. Kathryn Newton joins the cast as Cassie Lang while Jonathan Majors portrays Kang the Conqueror.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 is slated for 2023 with director James Gunn at the helm.
Fantastic Four
Fantastic Four features one of Marvel’s most iconic families. Jon Watts is on board to direct.
National Geographic
With more than 1,500 hours of National Geographic content available on Disney+, including award-winning documentaries, landmark wildlife and natural history, and premium fact-based scripted drama, National Geographic content president, Courteney Monroe, unveiled details of its ambitious new slate of originals exclusively for Disney+. “We are without question living in an extraordinary time,” said Monroe. “And
yet, National Geographic reminds us that the world is still an amazing and miraculous place, filled with spectacular beauty and wonder, which we are thrilled to share with the Disney+ audience.”
The new slate of high-profile National Geographic originals for Disney+ includes “Limitless With Chris Hemsworth,” “Welcome to Earth (Working Title)” featuring Will Smith, and a fourth season of the Emmy®winning anthology series “Genius,” which will profile Martin Luther King, Jr.
Also announced was the new documentary film “Cousteau,” which will debut in theatres before coming to Disney+, as well as new documentary series “Secrets of the Whales,” “A Real Bug’s Life” and “America the Beautiful.”
DOCUMENTARY FILMS
Cousteau
From National Geographic Documentary Films, the studio behind Oscar® winner “Free Solo,” two-time Academy Award® nominee Liz Garbus (“What Happened, Miss Simone?,” “The Farm: Angola, USA”), Academy Award winner Dan Cogan (“Icarus”), and in partnership with Story Syndicate and The Cousteau Society, the life of legendary ocean explorer Jacques Cousteau is told through a treasure trove of previously unseen archival material. Featuring never-before-seen 4K footage from the Cousteau Society’s archives, Cousteau will provide audiences a “deep dive” into the renowned explorer’s remarkable life, revealing the man behind some of the world’s most significant contributions to contemporary environmentalism. Academy Award winner Evan Hayes of “Free Solo” is also a producer for this film. After festivals and a planned theatrical release, the film will be available exclusively to Disney+ subscribers.
DISNEY+ ORIGINALS
SCRIPTED SERIES
Genius: Martin Luther King, Jr.
From executive producers Brian Grazer and Ron Howard, the Emmy Award-winning Genius scripted franchise continues exclusively for Disney+ subscribers beginning with season four, which will explore the extraordinary life and immeasurable impact of Nobel Peace Prize winner Martin Luther King Jr., who led seismic change in the civil rights movement in America. It will explore how Reverend King, a Baptist minister, became one of the most influential and inspirational African American leaders in history. Genius dramatizes the fascinating stories of the world’s most brilliant innovators, exploring their extraordinary achievements along with their volatile, passionate and complex personal relationships. The first season starred Geoffrey Rush as Albert Einstein, season two starred Antonio Banderas as Spanish painter Pablo Picasso, and the highly anticipated third season will feature Cynthia Erivo as music icon Aretha Franklin.
UNSCRIPTED SERIES
Secrets of the Whales
From executive producer and National Geographic Explorer-at-Large James Cameron, narrated by Sigourney Weaver, Secrets of the Whales is the work of acclaimed National Geographic Explorer and photographer Brian Skerry, as he helps tell the story of a species he’s been documenting for decades. Filmed across 24 locations over three years, it’s a profoundly personal saga, venturing deep into the world of whales to reveal life and love from their perspective. The four-part event series will tell the stories of the extraordinary cultures of five different whale species—orcas, belugas, narwhals, sperm whales and humpback whales.
A Real Bug’s Life
A Real Bug’s Life will be one of the most ambitious and innovative natural history series ever to be made. Only now, with recent advancements in miniaturized technology, can we meet these extraordinary little characters and see our colossal world through their tiny eyes. A Real Bug’s Life takes viewers on an unforgettable journey that exposes us to how these microsized creatures keep our world turning while facing monstrous forces and threats. From New York’s Central Park to your own backyard, each episode immerses the viewer inside a microcosm, where tiny yet extraordinary creatures rely on their mighty abilities to make it through the day. In ten spellbinding episodes, we take you on adventures into a world beyond your imagination to show you what life is like on planet Earth from a bug’s eye view.
America the Beautiful
It’s the land we love and the land we think we know. We see America’s breathtaking landscapes and wildlife as timeless, but the truth is very different. Its unique geography drives the forces of nature to extremes, shaping and reshaping the land and throwing down new challenges for life. From the award-winning producers of “Planet Earth,” Frozen Planet” and the “Disneynature” films, America the Beautiful is the ambitious story of our home. Led by the iconic species that resonate with us most, we’re going to journey through America’s visually spectacular regions: the Frozen North, the Wild West, the Grassy Heartland, the Deep South and the Mountainous High Wilderness.
Limitless With Chris Hemsworth
What if you could combat aging and discover the full potential of the human body? Global movie star Chris Hemsworth (“Extraction,” “Thor,” “The Avengers”) explores this revolutionary idea in the new National Geographic original series, Limitless With Chris Hemsworth, created by Darren Aronofsky and hailing from his production company Protozoa Pictures and Jane Root’s Nutopia. New scientific research is shatteringconventional wisdom about the human body and offering fascinating insights into how we can all unlock our body’s superpowers to fight illness, perform better and even reverse the aging process! This science is put to the test by Hemsworth, who, despite being in peak superhero-condition, is on a personal mission to learn how to stay young, healthy, strong, and resilient. Undergoing a series of epic trials and extraordinary challenges in order to understand the limits of the human body, he’ll learn firsthand how we can live better for longer by discovering ways to regenerate damage, maximize strength, build resilience, supercharge memory and confront mortality. Entertaining, immersive and life-changing, Limitless will rewrite the rulebook on living better for longer.
Welcome to Earth (Working Title)
Hailing from Jane Root’s Nutopia and Darren Aronofsky’s Protozoa Pictures, the world’s most charismatic movie star, Will Smith (“Ali,” “The Pursuit of Happyness,” “Bad Boys,” “Bad Boys II,” “Bad Boys For Life” and “Men in Black” I, II, III), embarks on an awe-inspiring global journey to unlock the secrets of the most extraordinary and unexplained phenomena of nature. In each episode, Smith—whose curiosity and wonder is positively infectious—is guided by National Geographic Explorers traveling to different corners of the world to get up close and personal with the weirdest, most unusual, dangerous and thrilling spectacles of the planet. Their mission is to seek out the things and places beyond human perception: the hidden worlds that we can’t see, smell, hear or feel. Only with the aid of cutting-edge technology is it possible to uncover these natural wonders. Smith discovers there are hidden worlds all around us, from the farthest reaches to our doorsteps. He learns how the tiniest details have enormous consequences for this place we call home. This is Earth as you have never seen it before.
Disney Television Studios
Walt Disney Television Chairman of Entertainment Dana Walden shared a look at some of the high profile series coming to Disney+ from Disney Television Studios. “We have an expansive slate of family entertainment in the pipeline, from comedies to epic dramas, shows that speak to a global audience, executed by great creators- people who know how to produce big hits. A number are based on beloved titles and iconic IP from the Disney library. These titles are trusted by families, passed down through generations and it’s a creator’s dream to have access to them. This gives us a real competitive edge.”
IN PRODUCTION AND SET TO DEBUT IN 2021:
The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers
Lauren Graham (“Gilmore Girls,” “Parenthood”) and Emilio Estevez (reprising his role from the original feature films) star in the next chapter of the hit Mighty Ducks franchise, premiering in early 2021. In present day Minnesota, the Mighty Ducks have evolved from scrappy underdogs to an ultra-competitive, powerhouse youth hockey team. After 12-year-old Evan is unceremoniously cut from the Ducks, he and his mom Alex
set out to build their own ragtag team of misfits to challenge the cutthroat, win-at-all-costs culture of competitive youth sports.
Big Shot
The series follows a temperamental college basketball coach who gets fired from his job and must take a teaching and coaching job at an elite all-girls private high school. Big Shot stars John Stamos and an ensemble cast of up-and-coming actors alongside Yvette Nicole Brown.
The Mysterious Benedict Society
Placed undercover at a boarding school known as The Institute, a group of orphans must foil a nefarious plot with global ramifications while creating a new sort of family along the way. Based on the bestseller by Trenton Lee Stewart which Time Magazine called “one of the best young adult books of all time,” the series stars Emmy® Award winner Tony Hale (“Veep,” “Arrested Development”) in the titular role and features astandout ensemble of young actors.
Turner & Hooch
When an ambitious, buttoned-up US Marshall inherits a big unruly dog, he soon realizes the dog he didn’t want may be the partner he needs. Josh Peck stars as Scott Turner, son of Detective Scott Turner portrayed in the original 1989 film by Tom Hanks.
IN DEVELOPMENT:
Beauty and the Beast (working title)
Starring Luke Evans and Josh Gad in the roles they made famous in the hit live action feature film, the music, romance, comedy and adventure of the Beauty and the Beast universe continues in this prequel that explores the kingdom in the years before the Beast and Belle’s epic romance. We will witness the destinies of many familiar characters take shape as they cross paths with new characters — including an unconventional and modern take on the traditional “Disney Princess” – as they experience their own exciting epic adventures and romances, all set to an original soundtrack from Academy Award winning composer Alan Menken.
Swiss Family Robinson
From creators Ron Moore (“Outlander”) and Jon Chu (“Crazy Rich Asians”), Swiss Family Robinson is a modern reimagining of the classic Disney film about a family shipwrecked on a desert island.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians
This new series explores the epic adventures of a modern-day demigod, based on the bestselling book series by Rick Riordan from Disney Publishing Worldwide, with over one hundred million copies of his books now in print.
FX
FX Chairman John Landgraf today discussed the brand’s strategic partnership with Hulu as well as programming plans for the coming year. “We focused relentlessly on giving our audience some of the very best television anywhere, and they responded by turning FX into more than just the name of a cable channel. FX became a real brand—a mark of quality wherever it might be located—by earning love—show after show and year after year— from the fans of our distinct and reliably excellent original programming. But the best is still to come. You can see how well Disney’s strategy to brand FX content is already working—and how bright the future is for both the FX brand and for the contributions it will make to both Hulu in the US and Star internationally.”
The following are projects Landgraf mentioned, in chronological order:
New Seasons Of Returning Hit Series Coming In 2021:
New seasons of FX linear series, available to Hulu subscribers the following day, include:
- Seasons three and four of the Emmy and Golden Globe award winning comedy Atlanta (produced by FXP)
- Season 10 of the Emmy and Golden Globe award winning anthological series American Horror Story (produced by 20th Television)
- Season two of the acclaimed hit comedy Dave (produced by FXP)
- Season three of the Emmy nominated comedy series, What We So In The Shadows (produced by FXP)
- Season three of the hit drama series Mayans M.C. (produced by 20th Television and FXP)
- Season five of the Emmy Award nominated and Peabody Award winning comedy Better Things(produced by FXP)
- The hit drama series Snowfall (produced by FXP)
- The Emmy Award-winning animated series Archer (produced by FXP)
- FOUR more seasons of the smash hit It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia, which will take Sunny to season18—four seasons longer than the prior record holder for longest running live action sitcom in television history, Ozzy and Harriet.FX Originals On Hulu (U.S.) And Star (multiple international markets) In 2021 Include: The Old ManThe Old Man starring Academy Award and Golden Globe award winner Jeff Bridges, Emmy and Golden Globe award winner John Lithgow, and Emmy and Golden Globe award nominated Amy Brenneman, is a new FX drama series starring Jeff Bridges as a former CIA operative who is forced to reconcile with his past. The Old Man, based on the bestselling novel of the same name by Thomas Perry, is written by John Steinberg & Robert Levine, directed by Jon Watts, and executive produced by Warren Littlefield, Steinberg, Dan Shotz, Levine, Bridges, David Schiff and Watts. (produced by 20th Television)American Horror StoriesAmerican Horror Stories is a new anthology series from Emmy and Golden Globe award winning producer Ryan Murphy spun off from FX’s biggest, longest running original drama hit, “American Horror Story”. (produced by 20th Television)
Platform
Platform, from BJ Novak, an actor and award-winning writer of “The Office,” is a half-hour anthological television series from FX that uses the boldest issues of our times as a jumping off point to tell singular, character-driven stories about the world we live in today. The series will feature a different cast each episode. The first episode stars Lucas Hedges, Kaitlyn Dever, O’Shea Jackson Jr., George Wallace, Ed Asner, Brendan Francis Scannell, among others. The second episode stars Jon Bernthal, Boyd Holbrook, Amy Landecker, Beau Bridges, and more. Novak serves as executive producer and the series is produced by FX Productions. (produced by FXP)
Y: The Last Man
Y: The Last Man is a new FX drama series based on DC Comics’ acclaimed series of the same name by Brian K. Vaughan and Pia Guerra. Y: The Last Man traverses a post-apocalyptic world in which a cataclysmic event decimates every mammal with a Y chromosome but for one cisgender man and his pet monkey. The series follows the survivors in this new world as they struggle with their efforts to restore what was lost and theopportunity to build something better. Eliza Clark serves as showrunner and an executive producer along with Nina Jacobson, Brad Simpson, Mari Jo Winkler-Ioffreda, Vaughn and Melina Maksoukas. The series stars Diane Lane, Ashley Romans, Ben Schnetzer, Olivia Thirlby, Amber Tamblyn, Marin Ireland, Diana Bang, Elliot Fletcher and Juliana Canfield. The series is produced by FX Productions and will premiere exclusively on FX on Hulu. (produced by FXP)
NEW SERIES IN DEVELOPMENT INCLUDE:
Reservation Dogs
Reservation Dogs, a new half hour comedy, coming-of-age story about four Native American teenagers growing up on a reservation in eastern Oklahoma who spend their days committing crimes… and fighting it. The series co-created by Sterlin Harjo, a Native American who also directed the pilot episode, and Academy Award-winner Taika Waititi (“JoJo Rabbit,” “What We Do in the Shadows”). The series stars D’Pharoah Woon-A-Tai, Devery Jacobs, Paulina Alexis and Lane Factor. Reservation Dogs is executive produced by Sterlin Harjo, Taika Waititi and Garrett Basch. (produced by FXP)
Alien
FX is moving quickly to bring audiences the first television series based on one of the greatest science- fiction horror classics ever made: “Alien.” Alien will be helmed by Fargo and Legion’s Noah Hawley stepping into the creator/executive producer chair, and FX is in advanced negotiations with Academy Award winner, Sir Ridley Scott—director of the first “Alien” film and the sequel, “Alien: Covenant”—to join the project as an Executive Producer. Set not too far into our future, it’s the first Alien story set on Earth—and by blending both the timeless horror of the first “Alien” film with the non-stop action of the second, it’s going to be a scary thrill ride that will blow people back in their seats. (produced by FXP)
Shōgun
FX is embarking on one of the most sweeping, sophisticated and adult series FX has ever created—a retelling of James Clavell’s beloved epic saga, Shōgun, set within the riveting and real Game of Thrones that was feudal Japan. It is adapted by Justin Marks and Rachel Kondo. Tim Van Patten, the highly decorated, award-winning producer of The Sopranos and Boardwalk Empire, and the director of the pilot and early episodes of “Game of Thrones,” has signed on to bring this giant and visceral canvas to life. (produced by FXP)
Content for Hulu (U.S.) and Star (international)
Walt Disney Television Chairman of Entertainment Dana Walden shared a look at some of the high-quality originals streaming soon. “We’re laser focused on creating great content for Disney’s streaming platforms. Our content strategy? Highly curated programming. We’re making hard choices about which shows we produce. Landing on content that feels special, and is both highly entertaining and part of the cultural conversation.”
Only Murders In The Building
Only Murders In The Building follows three strangers (played by Steve Martin, Martin Short and Selena Gomez) who share an obsession with true crime and suddenly find themselves wrapped up in one. The 10-episode series is expected to debut in 2021.
Co-creators and co-writers Steve Martin and John Hoffman executive produce along with Martin Short, Selena Gomez, Jamie Babbitt, “This is Us” creator Dan Fogelman and Jess Rosenthal. 20th Television, part of Disney TV Studios, is the studio.
The Dropout
The Dropout is inspired by the ABC News podcast of the same name chronicling the rise and fall of Elizabeth Holmes (played by Kate McKinnon) and her company, Theranos. The series will explore what caused the world’s youngest self-made female billionaire, once heralded as “the next Steve Jobs,” to lose everything in the blink of an eye. The eight-episode series is expected to debut in 2021.
The Dropout is executive produced by Kate McKinnon, showrunner Liz Meriwether and the producing team behind the ABC News podcast, host and Chief Business, Technology and Economics Correspondent for ABC News Rebecca Jarvis, Taylor Dunn and Victoria Thompson. The series comes to Hulu from Searchlight Television and 20th Television.
Dopesick
Dopesick is an ambitious, harrowing, and compelling look into the epicenter of America’s struggle with Opioid addiction, taking viewers from a distressed Virginia mining community to the hallways of the DEA, and to the opulence of “one percenter” Big Pharma Manhattan. The unsparing yet deeply human portraits of the various affected families and their intersecting stories hold up a mirror to where America is right now, while shining a hopeful light on the heroes battling the worst drug epidemic in American history. The eight- episode series is expected to debut in 2021.
Dopesick is written by Emmy winner Danny Strong (“Empire,” “Recount,” “Game Change”) and directed by Oscar winner Barry Levinson (“Paterno,” “Rain Man”). Executive producers for Dopesick include Danny Strong, John Goldwyn (“Dexter”), Barry Levinson, Warren Littlefield (“The Handmaid’s Tale,” “Fargo,” “The Old Man”), Beth Macy (Dopesick) and Karen Rosenfelt (“Twilight”). The limited series is based on the New York Times bestselling book of the same name by Beth Macy, coming to Hulu from 20th Television and The Littlefield Company.
The series stars Michael Keaton, Peter Sarsgaard, Will Poulter, John Hoogenakker with Kaitlyn Dever and Rosario Dawson.
Content for Hulu (U.S.)
Nine Perfect Strangers
Based on The New York Times bestselling book by author Liane Moriarty, Nine Perfect Strangers takes place at a boutique health-and-wellness resort that promises healing and transformation as nine stressed city dwellers try to get on a path to a better way of living. Watching over them during this ten-day retreat is the resort’s director Masha (Nicole Kidman), a woman on a mission to reinvigorate their tired minds and bodies. However, these nine “perfect” strangers have no idea what is about to hit them. The eight-episode series is expected to debut in 2021.
The series stars Nicole Kidman, Melissa McCarthy, Michael Shannon, Luke Evans, Bobby Cannavale, Regina Hall, Samara Weaving, Melvin Gregg, Asher Keddie, Grace Van Patten, Tiffany Boone and Manny Jacinto.
Nine Perfect Strangers is from David E. Kelley, Bruna Papandrea’s Made Up Stories, Nicole Kidman’s Blossom Films and Endeavor Content. Jonathan Levine directs all eight episodes of the series and serves as executive producer alongside Papandrea, Steve Hutensky and Jodi Matterson for Made Up Stories, Nicole Kidman and Per Saari for Blossom Films, Liane Moriarty, David E. Kelley, John Henry Butterworth, Molly Allen, Samantha Strauss and Melissa McCarthy. The series is co-written by David E. Kelley, John Henry Butterworth and Samantha Strauss and co-showrun by David E. Kelley and John Henry Butterworth.
The Handmaid’s Tale
Hulu’s award-winning, hit drama series, The Handmaid’s Tale, has been renewed for a fifth season ahead of its season four premiere. In the upcoming fourth season of The Handmaid’s Tale, June (Elisabeth Moss) strikes back against Gilead as a fierce rebel leader, but the risks she takes bring unexpected and dangerous new challenges. Her quest for justice and revenge threatens to consume her and destroy her most cherished relationships. The 10-episode fourth season will premiere in 2021.
The series stars Elisabeth Moss, Joseph Fiennes, Yvonne Strahovski, Samira Wiley, Alexis Bledel, Ann Dowd, Max Minghella, Madeline Brewer, O-T Fagbenle, Amanda Brugel, Bradley Whitford, and Sam Jaeger.
The Handmaid’s Tale season five will be executive produced by Bruce Miller, Warren Littlefield, Elisabeth Moss, Daniel Wilson, Fran Sears, Eric Tuchman, John Weber, Frank Siracusa, Sheila Hockin and Yahlin Chang. The series is produced by MGM Television and internationally distributed by MGM.
ESPN
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming and exclusive editorial content. ESPN+ has grown to more than 11.5 million subscribers as of early December 2020.
At The Walt Disney Company Investor Day, Jimmy Pitaro, Chairman, ESPN and Sports Content, The Walt Disney Company, shared details of a milestone new agreement with the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and several new series and studio programs coming to ESPN+.
“Our priority is to make content available across all platforms, and that includes a strong focus on a direct- to-consumer future,” said Pitaro. “Our underlying goal is to acquire, create, and distribute the best sports content. And to do so in a way that serves fans, maximizes consumption & revenue, and best positions our business to continue to be the leader in an evolving sports media environment.”
Further details are below. Show art, logos and sports photos are here. More information about The Walt Disney Company Investor Day can be found here.
ESPN & ESPN+
Southeastern Conference (SEC) Agreement
ESPN and the Southeastern Conference have finalized a milestone 10-year agreement that grants The Walt Disney Co. exclusive multi-media distribution rights to all SEC football, basketball and Olympic sports
events beginning in 2024-25, as well as select non-conference SEC football and men’s basketball games on ESPN+ beginning with the 2021-22 season. A significant expansion of ESPN’s current partnership with the conference – which features more than 1,900 annual events and the SEC Network – this landmark agreement will establish ABC as the new broadcast network home for premier Saturday afternoon SEC football games and selected Saturday primetime football games which will showcase Alabama-Auburn, Florida-Georgia and other popular SEC rivalries, as well as the annual SEC Football Championship Game, one of the most-viewed sporting events of the year. In addition, incremental marquee men’s basketball games – featuring Kentucky, Tennessee and other top SEC programs – will be featured annually across ABC and ESPN. The exclusive partnership with the SEC offers ESPN significant scheduling flexibility to utilize all of its networks and platforms. Through this new agreement, ESPN secures its position as the exclusive media rights holder for all SEC sports through 2033-34. Trailer
Peyton’s Places – Season Two, Three and Beyond
The Emmy-nominated series hosted by legendary quarterback Peyton Manning, currently in its 15-episode second season on ESPN+, will not only return for a third season but will also expand – bringing the same brand of fun, informative and insightful storytelling to other sports.
Some of the most engaging storytellers and charismatic personalities from across sports will front their own versions of Peyton’s Places, including Abby Wambach (soccer), Ronda Rousey (combat sports), David Ortiz (baseball), Peyton’s brother Eli Manning (college football) and more. Through conversations with current and former players, coaches, entertainers and icons, the hosts will get to the heart of the stories of each sport — the history and evolution, cultural impact, and the people and places that helped make it. Like the original Peyton’s Places, each series will aim to bring fans of all ages and types closer to the personalities, memorable moments and unknown stories that shaped the sport.
Season three is expected to debut in Fall 2021, with the first of the new sports-specific series debuting in the first quarter of calendar year 2021. Trailer
Stephen A’s World
Stephen A’s World is a new weeknight program debuting in January. Sports media icon Stephen A. Smith will go beyond the sports headlines to give the audience an authentic and unique understanding of the stories that matter. The show will bring viewers his entertaining perspective, including deep expertise and unparalleled relationships with some of the most influential figures in sports, entertainment, and beyond. In addition to the expert analysis, signature debates, and can’t-miss celebrity interviews, the show will also feature a variety of exclusive segments, including “Honorable Mention,” Stephen A. answering fan video questions from his Twitter and Instagram accounts, using NBA 2K to breakdown a player’s game in “Streaming A Smith,” giving relationship advice to couples where one is prioritizing sports in the “Love Doctor” segment, “The Hook,” where celebrities pick their game winners every Friday, and weekly visits from the one and only “Baby Stephen A.” The new 30-minute episodes will be available every Monday-Friday at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN+ and available anytime on-demand.
SportsNation
A newly reimagined SportsNation will return exclusively on ESPN+ in January. The daily studio show, available every weekday morning at 6 a.m. ET, will deliver highlights-driven recaps of the latest in sports through the lens of opinion, debate, and the internet. Hosts will be joined by special guest analysts and commentators to provide a look at the night’s most resonant plays featuring the best reactions from around the social media world, discussion and debate, Top 10 lists, deep dives, interviews, and more.
Man In The Arena: Tom Brady
The highly-anticipated nine-part documentary series is built around Tom Brady’s never-before-seen, first- hand accounts of the journey to each of his nine Super Bowls (six victories, three defeats) will premiere exclusively on ESPN+ in 2021.
In Man In The Arena, Brady and a notable lineup of interview subjects will talk about the milestones of his legendary, ongoing, career and the moments that became pivotal events in paving the future Hall Of Famer’s journey.
That’s quite a line up! What are you most excited for?
