Jon Favreau was instrumental in creating what is now known as the Marvel Cinematic Universe, kickstarting it with IRON MAN and getting the ball rolling with IRON MAN 2. The franchise is now worth billions and has put out almost 20 films. Now the director is getting his hands on another massive franchise – Star Wars – as it was announced today he will write and executive produce a new TV series for Lucasfilm.
The studio put out the announcement that Favreau will be working on a new live-action series that will air on the upcoming Disney streaming service set to launch in 2019. Not much else is known about the project, but Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy did express her excitement about bringing Favreau onboard.
I couldn’t be more excited about Jon coming on board to produce and write for the new direct-to-consumer platform. Jon brings the perfect mix of producing and writing talent, combined with a fluency in the Star Wars universe. This series will allow Jon the chance to work with a diverse group of writers and directors and give Lucasfilm the opportunity to build a robust talent base.
Favreau himself also put out a quote saying, “If you told me at 11 years old that I would be getting to tell stories in the Star Wars universe, I wouldn’t have believed you. I can’t wait to embark upon this exciting adventure.”
Favreau has been working closely with Disney in recent years. He directed the hugely successful JUNGLE BOOK film (which won an Oscar for visual effects) and is currently directing the LION KING remake. On top of that, he has a role as a CGI character in the upcoming SOLO: A STAR WARS STORY. Favreau has done several films I like quite a bit, including ELF, IRON MAN, CHEF and JUNGLE BOOK, and I am very interested in seeing what he can bring to the table in the Star Wars universe.
SOLO: A STAR WARS STORY is set for May 25.