We’re a ways off yet from the 50th anniversary of Star Wars, and Celebration seems distant on the horizon but it’s never to early to get the excitement going. Let’s take a look at some of the big panels that could be coming our way. As ever, these are based solely on some gut instincts and past Celebrations, but you never know! Don’t forget, there’s no panels on the mainstage on Thursday, only Friday through Sunday.
If there’s one panel that’s run out of the steam, then it’s the Lucasfilm Studio Showcase. It never really worked. A ton of projects were announced and never realised so understandably people stopped believing what was said.
50th Anniversary panel
Surely, this has to happen! All signs are pointing that way. The damned event is taking place in LA where so much Hollywood talent lives. It’s not too much to think that the powers that be could convince Mr Hamill, Mr Ford and Mr Lucas to make the short trip to the convention centre for a few hours on Friday morning. If this does happen, expect this to be it. Quite literally. An event, an anniversary and a coming together of fans and stars and talent of Star Wars may never happen again like this in our – or anyone else’s – lifetime.
Starfighter
If they kick things off with the 50th panel on the Friday, then surely logic will dictate that the cast and filmmakers of Starfighter will be brought out on the Saturday. The film, when Celebration takes place, will only be a few short weeks away from release on May 28th. Expect exclusive footage, reveals and some surprises as always.
Ahsoka Season 2
The move to shift the second season of Ahsoka to 2027 seems, by all accounts, to have been a scheduling one and not a creative one. Granted, it will have been nearly four years between season one and two of the show which proves the streaming model really needs a revamp but there was nothing in the pipeline in terms of live-action shows for the 50th anniversary of the franchise. Moving it 2027 means that, depending on when they release the show, a panel or early preview about the series could be on the cards.
Maul – Shadow Lord: Season 2
The show has been a ratings hit and lauded with critical acclaim and the second season of the show is already deep into production. It’s not too far of a stretch to bring out Dave Filoni, Sam Witwer and all the other amazing talent to discuss season 1, its making of, and a glimpse ahead to season 2. It’s anyone’s guess when season 2 will air. Perhaps towards the end of the year as they’ll want the first half dedicated to Starfighter and the IMAX release of the original Star Wars.
1977 Star Wars sceening
Now, admittedly, they haven’t done anything like this (to my recollection) since 2016’s Celebration where they showed The Force Awakens and Star Wars: A New Hope on the Celebration stages but something like this could go down a storm. Forget about the lottery or trying to reserve tickets for it. Show it on the Saturday night and do it first come first serve.
Lucas Musuem of Narrative Art
So, not strictly Star Wars, but the Maker himself has got his baby of nearly a decade opening up this September. Let’s imagine the deal. “George, can you come to Celebration?” – “Sure, but I’d like to do a panel on my new museum.” There we go. Signed, sealed, delivered. It’s a win, win. I know I’ll be heading to George’s new Museum whilst I’m in town and it’s always fantastic to see George in any capacity these days.