Disney has made a significant change to its upcoming film slate by removing a planned Star Wars movie from its 2026 release calendar. This decision comes as the studio has opted to replace the untitled Star Wars film with the sixth installment of the Ice Age franchise, which is now set to hit theaters on December 18, 2026.
Key Takeaways
- Disney has pulled an untitled Star Wars film from its 2026 schedule.
- Ice Age 6 will take the December 18, 2026, release date.
- The Star Wars film was expected to focus on Rey Skywalker, directed by Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy.
- The Mandalorian and Grogu, another Star Wars film, is still set for May 22, 2026.
Background On The Star Wars Film
The Star Wars film that has been removed from the calendar was initially rumored to be a sequel focusing on Rey Skywalker, played by Daisy Ridley. This project was announced to be directed by Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, with Kathleen Kennedy producing. However, the film has faced several setbacks, including the departure of its original screenwriter, Steven Knight, earlier this year.
Despite the anticipation surrounding Rey’s return, the film’s development has been rocky, leading to speculation about its future. The removal from the release calendar does not necessarily indicate cancellation, but it does highlight the challenges Disney faces in bringing new Star Wars content to the big screen.
Ice Age 6 Takes Center Stage
In a surprising turn, Disney has decided to fill the December 2026 slot with Ice Age 6, a film that will see the return of beloved characters voiced by Ray Romano, Queen Latifah, and John Leguizamo. This marks the first theatrical release for the Ice Age franchise since Disney acquired 21st Century Fox in 2019. The previous installment, Ice Age: Collision Course, was released in 2016 and grossed over $400 million worldwide.
Future Of The Star Wars Franchise
While the Rey-focused film is currently off the schedule, other Star Wars projects remain in development. The Mandalorian and Grogu is set to premiere in May 2026, and another untitled Star Wars film is slated for December 17, 2027. Additionally, Simon Kinberg has been announced to write and produce a new trilogy, which may include elements from the Rey narrative.
The Star Wars franchise has seen numerous projects announced over the years, many of which have not come to fruition. This latest development adds to the uncertainty surrounding the future of the franchise, as fans eagerly await news on upcoming films and storylines.
Conclusion
Disney’s decision to remove the Star Wars film from its 2026 release calendar reflects the ongoing challenges in the franchise’s development. As Ice Age 6 takes its place, fans will be watching closely for updates on Rey’s story and other Star Wars projects in the pipeline. The landscape of blockbuster films continues to evolve, and Disney’s strategic moves will undoubtedly shape the future of both the Star Wars and Ice Age franchises.
Sources
- Disney Takes Star Wars Off 2026 Calendar; Ice Age 6 Gets Release Date, The Hollywood Reporter.
- ‘Star Wars’ Movie Removed From 2026, ‘Ice Age 6’ Replaces, Variety.
- Disney Kiboshes December 2026 ‘Star Wars’ Movie Star Wars News Net, Star Wars News Net.
- Disney Pulls December 2026 Star Wars Movie – Probably The Rey Sequel, LRMonline.
- Disney Removes ‘Star Wars’ Movie From 2026 Slate, Replaced by ‘Ice Age 6’ – IMDb, IMDb.
