The production galaxy around the Star Wars universe is expanding. A new TV series focused on women is being designed for the Disney + platform, several specialist media said on Wednesday.
According to Deadline Hollywood, the series would be an "action thriller, with elements of martial arts, which focuses on women and takes place in a chronology different from that of the usual universe of Star Wars". The series, directed by Leslye Headland, the co-creator of "Russian Doll" on Netflix, will be filmed in live action, says the Hollywood Reporter.
Disney did not immediately respond to AFP requests. The series is said to be Disney's latest attempt to flesh out its science fiction franchise on the small screen after the resounding success of "The Mandalorian".
A series around "Rogue One" and one on Obi-Wan Kenobi also in preparation
Unveiled last fall to support the launch of Disney's video-on-demand platform, "The Mandalorian" has won over critics as well as Star Wars fans. It presents a tiny character with green skin, pointed ears and large tender eyes, nicknamed Baby Yoda by the spectators. Many of them immediately adopted it and declined in all tones on social networks. A third season is being prepared.
Two other Star Wars series in live action are also in the pipeline for Disney +: a prequel to "Rogue One" and a series that includes the return of Ewan McGregor in the role of Obi-Wan Kenobi.
The initiatives to multiply female or minority characters in "Star Wars" have divided some fans. The latest film trilogy featured women and people of color like Rey (Daisy Ridley) and Finn (John Boyega). But Asian American Kelly Marie Tran, the first actress of color to play a leading role in the franchise, has been harassed on social networks for racist and sexist comments.