Disney utilized its D23 event to reveal new trailers for Star Wars and Marvel streaming projects and unveil the primary cast for a forthcoming X-Men film. The company also provided updates on upcoming theatrical releases, animated ventures, and potential game revivals.
Star Wars Expanded Universe Updates
Lucasfilm utilized D23 to build anticipation for its upcoming slate, focusing heavily on the Star Wars franchise. Attendees received a first look at the second season of Ahsoka, which is scheduled for a January 20, 2027, premiere. The teaser depicts a shift toward a darker, more mystical tone, highlighting the return of Grand Admiral Thrawn as he aims to destabilize the galaxy in the post-Empire era. Additionally, the studio showcased exclusive footage of the upcoming feature film Star Wars: Starfighter. While the general public has yet to see an official release of this clip, the film is set for a theatrical debut on May 28, 2027. The project boasts an ensemble cast including Ryan Gosling, Matt Smith, Aaron Pierre, and Mia Goth. Beyond these live-action efforts, Disney confirmed an animated special titled LEGO Star Wars: The Mandalorian is arriving on Disney+ next month.
Marvel Studios and the X-Men Cinematic Integration
Marvel Studios made significant waves at the event by officially detailing its plans for the X-Men within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. An untitled X-Men film is currently slated for release on May 5, 2028, and will feature a lineup that includes Kit Connor as Cyclops, Christopher Abbott as Professor X, Samara Weaving as Emma Frost, Maya Boyd as Storm, and Inde Navarrette as Rogue. Adam Driver was confirmed to play the iconic antagonist Mister Sinister. The event also featured a trailer for the upcoming Disney+ series VisionQuest, arriving on October 14, 2026. This series concludes the trilogy initiated by WandaVision and Agatha All Along, following the rebooted Vision as he navigates his identity while avoiding those who wish to weaponize him. The plot introduces Thomas Shepherd, played by Ruaridh Mollica, and sees the return of James Spader as the voice of Ultron.
Gaming and Animation Announcements
The D23 event served as a platform for various cross-media announcements, including potential developments in gaming and animation. Matt Groening hinted at a possible revival of the cult-classic game The Simpsons: Hit & Run, suggesting that the title might return in some capacity, though official details remain elusive. Furthermore, Disney is expanding its animation portfolio, with Pixar set to release a supernatural feature titled Ghost Market in March 2028. Fans of Square Enix’s Kingdom Hearts franchise also received news regarding an upcoming anime adaptation, with series creator Tetsuya Nomura involved in the project. While specific plot points remain under wraps, this initiative seeks to translate the complex RPG saga into a serialized format. Additionally, a teaser for a Bluey film was presented, though it drew mixed reactions for moving from the series' signature 2D animation style to a 3D computer-generated aesthetic.
⚖ The Balanced View
Supporting view
Fans expressed significant enthusiasm for the formal entry of the X-Men into the MCU and the continued exploration of the WandaVision story arc through VisionQuest.
Concerns & criticism
The announcement of a Bluey feature film received criticism from some observers regarding the departure from the series' established 2D art style in favor of 3D animation.
→What's next
Disney's immediate streaming slate begins with the October 14, 2026, premiere of VisionQuest. Looking further ahead, the studio is preparing for the January 2027 debut of Ahsoka's second season followed by the May 2027 theatrical release of Starfighter.
