Key Facts
- ✓ Star Wars: Maul - Shadow Lord will premiere with a two-episode launch on Disney+ on April 6, 2026.
- ✓ The series takes place on Janix, a planet featuring a functioning democracy that remains untouched by the Empire.
- ✓ Devon Izara is a Twi'lek Padawan who encounters Maul while on the run after the events of Order 66.
- ✓ Executive producer Matt Michnovetz describes the setting as a blend of Gotham City, Metropolis, and classic Star Wars aesthetics.
- ✓ The First Brother Inquisitor Marrok returns from Ahsoka, wielding a circular-hilted double-bladed lightsaber.
- ✓ The season finale is scheduled for May 4, 2026, with two episodes released weekly.
The Sith Returns
The wait is finally over for fans of the iconic Sith Lord. Star Wars: Maul - Shadow Lord has officially been slated for a April 6, 2026 debut on Disney+, bringing the fan-favorite villain back to the small screen in a brand-new animated adventure.
Alongside the premiere date announcement, the first official teaser trailer dropped, offering a visceral look at the series' gritty tone. The footage highlights Maul wielding his terrifying double-bladed lightsaber as he attempts to rebuild his criminal syndicate on a world that has, until now, remained untouched by the Empire's reach.
A New Apprentice 🌌
Set directly after the events of Star Wars: The Clone Wars, the series places Maul on the planet Janix at the dawn of Emperor Palpatine's rule. It is here that the Dark Lord encounters a unique opportunity for an apprentice.
The story introduces Devon Izara, a disillusioned young Jedi Padawan who is on the run following the devastation of Order 66. According to the official description, she is the potential apprentice Maul has been seeking to aid him in his relentless pursuit for revenge.
“It's one part Gotham, one part Metropolis and a hundred percent Star Wars with all these different levels and layers.”
Executive producer Matt Michnovetz describes Janix as a city built into a crater, featuring a functioning democracy and law enforcement. Despite the peace, it remains a rich environment for crime and gangsters, providing the perfect backdrop for Maul's machinations.
"It's one part Gotham, one part Metropolis and a hundred percent Star Wars with all these different levels and layers."
— Matt Michnovetz, Executive Producer
The Inquisitorius Threat
Rebuilding a syndicate is never easy, especially with the Empire's enforcers lurking in the shadows. The trailer confirms the return of the First Brother Inquisitor Marrok, a character previously seen in Star Wars: Ahsoka.
Marrok presents a unique visual parallel to the protagonist, wielding a double-bladed lightsaber with a distinctive circular hilt. He is not the only threat, as the Inquisitorius is described as being "stronger than ever" during this era.
- Consolidating the galaxy from core worlds outward
- Hunting Jedi and Force users
- Operating as secret mercenaries
- Expanding Palpatine's dark influence
The Empire's slow rise creates a complex political landscape where different groups have varying understandings of the new regime, setting the stage for high-stakes conflict.
Cast & Creative Vision
The voice cast brings together a mix of returning favorites and new talent. Sam Witwer reprises his celebrated role as the voice of Maul, continuing his legacy from previous animated series.
Joining him is Gideon Adlon as Devon Izara, Wagner Moura as Brander Lawson, and Richard Ayoade as Two-Boots. The ensemble also features Dennis Haysbert, Chris Diamantopoulos, Charlie Bushnell, Vanessa Marshall, and Steve Blum.
Created by Dave Filoni, the series promises a distinct visual identity. The production is utilizing "stylized animation" combined with old-school filmmaking methods, including painting on glass, to capture the painterly brushstrokes that define the gritty cityscape of Janix.
Release Schedule & Prequel
Leading up to the main event, fans have content to look forward to. A Marvel Comics prequel series starring Brander Lawson and Two-Boots will launch in March, setting the stage for the events on Janix.
Once the series premieres, Star Wars: Maul - Shadow Lord will release two episodes each week. The season is scheduled to run until the finale on May 4, 2026, ensuring a month-long celebration of the Sith Lord's return.
What to Watch For
As the calendar turns to 2026, all eyes are on Disney+ for the return of one of the franchise's most complex villains. The series aims to explore the psychological depth of Maul while delivering the action fans expect.
With a unique setting, a compelling new character dynamic, and a visual style that pushes the boundaries of animation, Shadow Lord is poised to be a standout entry in the Star Wars canon. The journey begins on April 6.
