Before The Lord Of The Rings and Game Of Thrones, we had George Lucas and Ron Howard's fantasy adventure, Willow. The 1988 movie is generally considered to be something of a noble failure, but it does have dedicated cult following.
Howard recently revealed that the planned TV series we've been hearing about was still awaiting the greenlight, but THR reports that the show is now officially in development at Disney+. Warwick Davis (Star Wars) is set to reprise the title role, with Jon M. Chu (Crazy Rich Asians) on board to direct the pilot.
Jonathan Kasdan (Solo), who also wrote the pilot, and Wendy Mericle (Arrow) will serve as showrunners. Howard will executive produce.
"Growing up in the’80s, Willow has had a profound effect on me," said Chu. "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."
"So many fans have asked me over the years if Willow will make a return, and now I'm thrilled to tell them that he will indeed," added Davis. "Many have told me they grew up with Willow and that the film has influenced how they view heroism in our own world. If Willow Ufgood can represent the heroic potential in all of us, then he is a character I am extremely honored to reprise."
Plot details are still under wraps, but the series is expected to take place "years after the film and introduce new characters into its world of fairy queens and monsters."
What do you guys make of this news? Were you a fan of Willow back in the day? Let us know in the comments section.
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