Ron Howard wants to direct an episode of Willow

Last Updated on January 23, 2023

Ron Howard, who directed 1988’s Willow, wants a shot at directing an episode of the Disney+ sequel.

Ron Howard has expressed interest in helming at least one episode of Willow, which he currently only serves as an executive producer. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, he said, “I was a little disappointed not to have time this time…It would be a function of looking at the calendar.” Considering last year Howard did release Thirteen Lives, about the 2018 Tham Luang cave rescue, he most certainly had an excuse.

His next project, the Netflix animated film The Shrinking of Treehorn, currently has no release date set but will undoubtedly take up a good chunk of Howard’s time. However, as a second season of Willow has yet to be officially confirmed (although it was nicely teased in the season one finale), that could allow for more time for Ron Howard to direct at least one episode. Having helmed the beloved original film, it would seem a fitting gesture to let him work with the characters once again.

Reception on Disney+’s Willow has been quite strong, which is comforting since the project had been in development in one phase or another for over 15 years. Our own Alex Maidy praised the first episode, saying it was a “beautiful follow-up that exceeded my expectations in every way…Willow makes a strong case for this franchise to continue and expand in every way.” Well, how about a second season of Willow with a Ron Howard-directed episode?

Still, Howard did note that there are benefits to working as a producer and not a director on Willow, also detailing his involvement on the series. “I didn’t have to be the bearer of bad news at any point. But I offered up notes, criticisms and ideas. That’s the way I was utilized and activated. There were discussions about where the season would go and how the episodes would unfold, and I participated in that.”

The official plot of Disney+’s Willow, as per Disney: “story began with an aspiring magician from a Nelwyn village and an infant girl destined to unite the realms, who together helped destroy an evil queen and banish the forces of darkness. Now, in a magical world where brownies, sorcerers, trolls, and other mystical creatures flourish, the adventure continues, as an unlikely group of heroes set off on a dangerous quest to places far beyond their home, where they must face their inner demons and come together to save their world.”

What do you think? Should Ron Howard clear his calendar to direct an episode of Willow? Or should he just stay on as an EP? Let us know in the comments below!