K.T Simpson
A sequel to the 1988 film “Willow” has long been discussed, but instead we’re getting a TV series!
The sequel series is coming to Disney Plus, and takes place years after the events of the original Ron Howard-directed pic. Howard is returning to the project as executive producer alongside original star Warwick Davis, who will once again play the titular hero Willow Ufgood.
Director Jon M. Chu (“Crazy Rich Asians”) will direct the first episode, which will go into production next year.
The show will introduce all-new characters to the magical realm of fairy queens and two-headed Eborsisk monsters.
The original film centered on Willow (Davis), who reluctantly forced into playing a critical role in protecting a special infant named Elora Danan from an evil queen (Jean Marsh). A prophecy told that Elora would bring the queen’s downfall. Willow was helped along the way by a mercenary swordsman, played by Val Kilmer. It also starred Joanne Whalley, Billy Barty and Kevin Pollak.
Chu said of the project:
“Growing up in the’80s, ‘Willow’ has had a profound effect on me. The story of the bravest heroes in the least likely places allowed me, an Asian-American kid growing up in a Chinese restaurant looking to go to Hollywood, to believe in the power of our own will, determination and of course, inner magic. So the fact that I get to work with my heroes from Kathleen Kennedy to Ron Howard is bigger than a dream come-true. It’s a bucket-list moment for me. Jon Kasdan and Wendy Mericle have added such groundbreaking new characters and delightful surprises to this timeless story that I can’t wait for the world to come along on this epic journey with us.”
