Darth Maul Returns in New Star Wars Series Coming to Disney+

Star Wars Celebration 2025 introduces new animated series based on Darth Maul

The Star Wars universe continues expanding, and during Star Wars Celebration 2025 in Tokyo, Lucasfilm revealed a new animated series based on one of the universe's most infamous villains, Darth Maul.

The series, titled Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord, is set to make its exclusive debut on Disney+ next year, 2026. It follows the dark journey of Darth Maul as he begins the rebuilding of his criminal empire after the events of The Clone Wars.

Franchise enthusiasts will be happy to know that the role of Maul is being reprised by Sam Witwer, who first brought the character to life in Star Wars Rebels, The Clone Wars, and Solo: A Star Wars Story.

The series preview had revealed a gritty, dark tone. In the trailer, Maul liberates a Twi'lek prisoner, then offers his hand for her to train with. There are several graphic lightsaber combat sequences, with Maul using his distinctive double-bladed red lightsaber with brutal efficiency.

The story is set on one of the Empire-unvisited planets, where there is the perfect place for Maul to be reawakened and create his own fate outside of the public eye.

It is followed by another massive reveal during the event, a new Star Wars film starring Ryan Gosling, released in 2027.

Fans can anticipate a journey into the mind of one of Star Wars' more complex characters with Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord. Dark, suspense-ridden, and action-packed, the series will be a must-watch for Star Wars fans around the world.

Coming 2026, only on Disney+.