Star Wars Day, or May the Fourth, has arrived. Every year, Disney releases news, products, and hosts events for the occasion. This year is no different. There are many new shows, movie announcements, and tie-in events. These announcements follow the re-release of Revenge of the Sith, which wraps up its showings around the time Star Wars Day comes.
From April 18 to April 20, Star Wars hosted an event in Japan that showcased many new projects in development. Forbes has reported all of the new shows that were presented. The first item shown was a new movie titled Star Wars: Starfighter. Although not much was shown, it was revealed that the plot will take place after the events of Episode IX, The Rise of Skywalker. The movie will also star popular actor Ryan Gosling. The movie is planned to release on May 28, 2027. Next, more images from the next movie, The Mandalorian and Grogu, were shown. It was also revealed that the film will star Alien actress Sigourney Weaver. This movie is set to release on May 22, 2026. The final big announcement was the reveal of a new animated series centered around Darth Maul. This show will be titled Star Wars: Maul- Shadow Lord. Beloved voice actor Sam Witwer is set to reprise his role as Maul. The series is set to release sometime in 2026 on Disney+.
Popular video game Fortnite is having a tie-in season with Star Wars. Forbes has compiled all of the new additions to this season. The event begins on May 2 and will last for approximately two months. This season will include new cosmetics, such as skins, pickaxes, and gliders. The season battle pass will also be Star Wars themed, including characters such as General Grievous, Emperor Palpatine, and Mandalorian warriors. In addition to these cosmetic items, the battleground map will be updated with new Star Wars locations and vehicles. Apparently, judging from the trailer that was released announcing the new season, there will be locations based on Tatooine and Imperial bases. Vehicles such as TIE-fighters and X-wings will be available to pilot. Lightsabers will also be available for use in the battle royale. The Star Wars season will have in-game events across the season, offering new bosses to fight and rewards to earn.
This past weekend, I got the opportunity to watch Star Wars: Episode III- Revenge of the Sith in theatres. While my AMC theatre did not offer the limited-time popcorn bucket or Darth Vader drink cup, I was content with just watching the movie. Seeing the events of the movie unfold on the big screen was a stark contrast to the television screen at my home. The booming sounds and striking visuals of the battle between Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi were a treat. The movie only became more fantastic due to the presentation. Episode III was my favorite Star Wars movie before I saw it in theatres, and I only came to appreciate it more. Although even on my fourth viewing, I still get disappointed when the movie does not end any less tragically.
This year, Disney seems to be pulling out all of the stops for the May the Fourth celebration. Between new announcements and events, there are many things for Star Wars fans to look forward to. The new movies endeavor to revive the cinema presence Star Wars has had since 1977.
