Jon Favreau, a seasoned Disney collaborator, is set to bring the classic animated character Oswald the Lucky Rabbit to life in a new Disney+ series. According to a Deadline report, Favreau will utilize his expertise in both live-action and animation to produce and write this innovative show. While plot details and casting information remain under wraps, the project promises to be a unique blend of storytelling techniques.
Oswald the Lucky Rabbit holds a significant place in Disney's history. Created by Walt Disney, Oswald starred in 26 silent cartoons from 1927 to 1928 before a rights dispute led to Universal acquiring the character. This loss was a pivotal moment for Disney, ultimately leading to the creation of Mickey Mouse. As detailed in our in-depth look at Disney's 100-year history, Disney regained the rights to Oswald in 2006 and released its first new original short starring the character in 95 years in 2022. Now, with Favreau's series, Disney aims to further cement Oswald's legacy beyond a mere historical footnote. Although a release date has not been announced, anticipation is building for this live-action and animation hybrid.
While Favreau is focusing on one of Disney's oldest characters, he's also deeply involved in its newer franchises. Star Wars enthusiasts recognize him as a key figure in expanding the universe through projects like The Mandalorian, Skeleton Crew, and Ahsoka. Additionally, Favreau has left his mark on the Marvel Cinematic Universe for the past 15 years, both as an actor and director, including helming the 2019 remake of The Lion King. Fans can look forward to seeing him direct again in the upcoming theatrical release, The Mandalorian and Grogu, slated for 2026.
Oswald's return to the Disney fold comes shortly after his appearance in the 2023 horror film Oswald: Down the Rabbit Hole, which featured Ghostbusters star Ernie Hudson and marked the character's venture into the public domain. This latest project underscores Disney's commitment to reviving and reimagining its iconic characters for contemporary audiences.
