Jon Favreau's Oswald the Lucky Rabbit Series Coming to Disney+

Jon Favreau, a seasoned Disney movie veteran, is set to bring the classic animated icon Oswald the Lucky Rabbit to life in a new Disney+ series. According to a report from Deadline, Favreau will leverage his expertise in both live-action and animation to create this exciting TV show, serving as both writer and producer. While specific details such as plot and casting remain under wraps, the anticipation for this project is already building among fans.

Oswald the Lucky Rabbit holds a significant place in Disney's history. Conceived by Walt Disney himself, Oswald starred in 26 silent cartoons from 1927 to 1928 before a rights dispute led to Universal gaining control of the character. This event, as detailed in our in-depth look at Disney's 100-year history, marked a challenging period for Disney but ultimately paved the way for the creation of Mickey Mouse. Disney regained the rights to Oswald in 2006 and celebrated this by releasing its first new original short starring the character in 95 years in 2022. Now, Disney is poised to expand Oswald's legacy beyond a mere historical figure with Favreau's upcoming series. Although a release date has not been announced, fans can look forward to this unique blend of live-action and animation in the near future.

While working on this nostalgic project, Favreau continues to contribute significantly to Disney's more recent franchises. He's a key figure in expanding the Star Wars universe through series like The Mandalorian, Skeleton Crew, and Ahsoka. Additionally, Favreau has left an indelible mark on the Marvel Cinematic Universe, both behind and in front of the camera over the last 15 years, and directed the 2019 remake of The Lion King. Fans can anticipate his directorial return with The Mandalorian and Grogu, set to hit theaters in 2026.

Oswald the Lucky Rabbit's return to the Disney family is timely, following his brief appearance in the public domain. Just last year, in 2023, Oswald starred in the horror film Oswald: Down the Rabbit Hole, featuring Ghostbusters actor Ernie Hudson. This project marked a unique and unexpected take on the beloved character, showcasing his versatility and enduring appeal.