Jonathan Kasdan, showrunner of Willow, reflects on Lucasfilm’s decision to end the Disney+ series, while insisting that a second season could still see the light of day.
The announcement fell like a chopper this week: the Willow series, the small-screen sequel to the cult 80s fantasy film, will not have a season 2. But according to showrunner Jonathan Kasdan, a second chapter would still be possible …
Kasdan addressed the question of Willow’s future in a lengthy statement shared on Twitter. In it, he takes issue with the idea that Lucasfilm ended the series, insisting that “neither [lui]nor the folks at Lucasfilm, would or ever have described it that way“.
He goes on to explain that the main cast members of Willow have been released from their contracts to allow them to pursue other opportunities after it became clear that the second season of the series would not begin filming within 12 months from come.
Kasdan adds that there are scripts for season 2 and states that he is “absolutely not“question that these episodes are never shot. To illustrate his point, he cites several other series, such as Atlanta and Larry and his navel, which have resumed after long periods of interruption.
The news that Lucasfilm would not be renewing Willow for a second season was not accompanied by any justification. However, industry experts have pointed to cost-cutting measures at Disney+ as the probable cause of this decision.
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Is a season 2 still possible?
Whether Willow would get a second season was the subject of intense speculation during and after its eight-episode first season aired. Comments from Jonathan Kasdan at the end of 2022 have already raised the alarm. Season 2 already looked in jeopardy, as he hinted that Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy was reluctant to give it the green light.
“I’m begging Kathy because working with these cast and crew on this show has been the best experience ever.“, he said to comic book. “We still feel like there are many more important stories and places to visit.“
However, many Willow fans remained optimistic, buoyed by positive statements from Kasdan and the show’s other main creators. This includes executive producer Ron Howard, who recently expressed interest in directing one or more Willow Season 2 episodes. Howard directed the original film, but scheduling conflicts prevented him from getting behind the camera for the Disney+ series.
All eight episodes of Willow are currently streaming on Disney+.