Willow series’ new director found in Jonathan Entwistle

Last Updated on July 30, 2021

Just several weeks after Jon M. Chu had to step down as the director of Lucasfilm's Willow TV series for Disney+, THR has reported that the project has a new director in Jonathan Entwistle, best known for Netflix's The End of the F***ing World and I Am Not Okay With This.

"With its epic world of swords, sorcery and adventure, Willow captivated and influenced so many," said Jonathan Entwistle in a statement. "I’m excited to be going on this journey and working with Jon and Wendy to create something that is both deeply rooted in that original film and also a fresh, funny and charming addition to the beloved story. To be able to play within the world so painstakingly crafted by Ron back in '88 is a dream come true for me." In addition to directing the pilot, Entwistle will also join the series as an executive producer alongside co-showrunners Jonathan Kasdan and Wendy Mericle.

The original film starred Warwick Davis as a young farmer who stumbled across Elora Danan, an infant who was prophesied to bring about the downfall of the evil Queen Bavmorda. Teaming up with the mercenary swordsman Madmartigan (Val Kilmer), Willow attempted to keep Elora from the clutches of Bavmorda's legions. The Willow series will take place years after the events of the film, and although nothing official has been released, it's said that the series will revolve around a group on a mission to save a kidnapped prince. The project currently stars Ellie Bamber, Cailee Spaeny, Erin Kellyman, and Warwick Davis, and it was revealed earlier this week that Spider-Man's Tony Revolori is currently in talks to join the cast as well. Production on Willow is expected to kick off this spring in Wales.