Half a century is an impressive feat, and Disney is going all out for the 50th anniversary of Star Wars. Ahead of the exact milestone in 2027, the company and Lucasfilm have announced plans to celebrate the jubilee, including a new documentary that dives into the making of A New Hope.
The behind-the-scenes look, titled The Hero Awakens, will be directed by Academy Award-nominated filmmaker R.J. Cutler and feature rare archival footage and audio from the production process. It debuts exclusively on Disney+ on none other than Star Wars Day, or 4 May, following the theatrical re-release of the first 1977 film on 19 February — as unveiled in a fresh poster by Matt Ferguson that pays tribute to the original art.
Rounding out next year’s TV and movie slate, respectively, are Ahsoka Season 2, set to premiere on 20 January, and the Ryan Gosling-led Star Wars: Starfighter, releasing on 28 May. In the States, Cosm’s Shared Reality rendition of Star Wars: A New Hope (2019 version) invites fans to step into its entertainment venues in Atlanta, Dallas, Detroit, and Los Angeles starting March 2027, boasting 12K+ immersive LED Domes, themed environments, and bespoke food and beverage offerings.
Star Wars in Concert: The Skywalker Saga will then kick off on 2 to 3 April at Hollywood Bowl, where the first official performance was held in November 1977. Hosted by Anthony Daniels, known for his role as C-3PO, it brings together John Williams’ iconic film scores and scenes from all nine Skywalker Saga films, before culminating in Star Wars Celebration in Los Angeles. Held from 1 to 4 April 2027, the sold-out event continues the annual tradition of panels, special guest appearances, hundreds of exhibitors, and exclusive merchandise.
Speaking of merchandising, fans can expect various crossovers and collaborations. Hasbro’s new assortment of products from its premium Black Series, Vintage Collection, and Retro figure lines is inspired by the original Star Wars, while a seven-piece LEGO collection spans artwork, vehicles, helmets, and display models inspired by iconic moments across the franchise, each featuring exclusive LEGO minifigures inspired by original Star Wars concept art by Ralph McQuarrie. Details about an Aston Martin tie-up remain scarce, but it will pair “British ultra-luxury craftsmanship with cinematic heritage through a series of exclusive activations and product collaborations throughout the landmark anniversary year.”
Finally, tickets are now on sale for the premier Star Wars: The Experience exhibition, opening at The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia on 13 February 2027. Touted as the “largest and most comprehensive behind-the-scenes travelling exhibition celebrating the Star Wars galaxy,” it will be the year’s only official showcase, with advance purchase strongly recommended for the timed and dated tickets.
Si Jia is a casual geek at heart – or as casual as someone with Sephiroth’s theme on her Spotify playlist can get. A fan of movies, games, and Japanese culture, Si Jia’s greatest weakness is the Steam Summer Sale. Or any Steam sale, really.
Kevin Low
