"Star Wars: Darth Maul - Lord of Shadows" has received a release date.

Disney+ has revealed plans to release an animated series about one of the saga's darkest characters.

The streaming service Disney+ has officially announced the premiere date for the animated series "Star Wars: Maul — Shadow Lord", dedicated to one of the most recognizable and tragic villains in a galaxy far, far away. The first two episodes of the project will debut on April 6, 2026, with new episodes airing weekly thereafter, also released in pairs.

The season finale is scheduled for May 4th—a symbolic date for all Star Wars fans, traditionally celebrated as the franchise's unofficial holiday.

Release Schedule and Distribution Strategy

The chosen release model underscores the project's status as one of Disney+'s key animated releases in the Star Wars universe. Launching with two episodes at once is designed to provide viewers with a deep dive into the story, while the weekly release of episode pairs should help maintain steady audience engagement throughout the season.

The series concluding on May 4th appears symbolic and highlights the project's special place within the franchise's overall mythology.

Plot and Timeline

The events of Shadow Lord unfold one year after the finale of the animated series Star Wars: The Clone Wars. Darth Maul is portrayed as an exile, consumed by a thirst for revenge and a desire to reclaim his lost status.

He plans to rebuild his criminal syndicate on a forgotten planet, beyond the reach of the Empire. It is there that his path crosses with a young Padawan who has become disillusioned with the Jedi Order. A potential alliance with her could become a key element in Maul's relentless pursuit of vengeance.

Creators and Connection to Canon

The project is created by longtime contributors to the Star Wars universe—Dave Filoni and Matt Michnovetz. Both have repeatedly worked on key storylines within the franchise, including animated series, ensuring Shadow Lord is closely tied to the existing canon.

Their involvement heightens fan expectations, especially considering the deep development of Darth Maul's character in previous Lucasfilm animated projects.

Cast and the Return of Darth Maul

Sam Witwer returns to voice Darth Maul, having previously voiced the character in several Star Wars projects. His involvement ensures continuity and emotional depth for the character.

The main cast also includes Gideon Adlon (Devon Isara) and Wagner Moura (Brander Lawson). The extensive ensemble features Richard Ayoade (Tu-Boots), Dennis Haysbert (Master Ico-Dio-Daki), Chris Diamantopoulos (Luti Vario), Charlie Bushnell (Riley Lawson), Vanessa Marshall (Ruk Kast), David Collins (Spybot), AJ Locascio (Marrok), and Steve Blum (Icar).

Significance for the Franchise

Star Wars: Maul — Shadow Lord continues the trend of in-depth exploration of the saga's complex and ambiguous characters. The series promises to focus not only on action and intrigue but also on the internal transformation of one of the franchise's most controversial antagonists.

The series premiere in spring 2026 is set to be a key event for fans of animated Star Wars and the expansion of Darth Maul's canonical history.