Disney and Lucasfilm have announced Star Wars Forces of Destiny, a new YouTube series that focuses on the iconic women of Star Wars.
Characters Rey, Jyn, Leia, Amadala, Sabine, and more take center stage in 2-3 minute mini-adventures. Actresses such as Daisy Ridley, Felicity Jones and Lupita Nyong’o will reprise their roles for the animated series, which tells small stories that remain true to Disney’s Star Wars canon. The series debuts this July on Disney YouTube.
“Star Wars Forces of Destiny is for anyone who has been inspired by Leia’s heroism, Rey’s courage, or Ashoka’s tenacity,” said Kathleen Kennedy, president of Lucasfilm. “We’re thrilled that so many of the original actors are reprising their roles in these shorts which capture the small moments and everyday decisions that shape who these characters are. It is a fun new way for people to experience Star Wars.”
Star Wars Forces of Destiny won’t end at YouTube. A two-part special featuring eight additional episodes will air on Disney channel this Fall.
An entire product line has also been announced, including books, figures, and role-playing items.
“From Princess Leia to Sabine Wren, Star Wars heroines are unique, and we wanted to represent that in the product line for Star Wars Forces of Destiny,” said Jimmy Pitaro, chairmen for Disney Consumer Products. “The result is the creation of our new Adventure Figures that celebrate the power and stories of these incredible characters and allow kids to recreate their most heroic moments at home.”
The Adventure Figures are impressive 11-inch action figures with multiple points of articulation. Hasbro president John Frascotti admits that “the Star Wars fan base has broadened over the last 40 years,” referring to the very obvious untapped market of young girls who love Star Wars. Not to mention that boys love awesome female characters as well. As the father of an impressionable young girl who loves watching Star Wars Rebels, I’m ecstatic for Star Wars Forces of Destiny.
A special preview of Star Wars Forces of Destiny will be shown during the “Heroines of Star Wars” panel at the Star Wars Celebration Orlando event tomorrow, April 14. The series launches in July.
