Lucasfilm and Production I.G have joined forces to deliver Star Wars: Visions Presents - The Ninth Jedi, an eight-episode limited anime series packed with dynamic lightsaber duels and deep Force lore. The project builds directly on the acclaimed anthology shorts by offering extended storytelling that captures the essence of Jedi training and galactic conflict. This collaboration fuses Lucasfilm's visionary approach with Production I.G's masterful animation expertise to create a standout entry in the Star Wars franchise.
Supervising director Kenji Kamiyama, director Shunsuke Tada, and producer Hitoshi Ito revealed the trailer and teaser poster during a panel at Anime Expo. Their presentation showcased key highlights of the upcoming series, generating anticipation among viewers. The creative team shared insights into the project's development and its significance within the broader Star Wars franchise.
This project represents the debut series under the Star Wars: Visions Presents banner, designed to feature extended narratives drawn from the Star Wars: Visions anthology. It picks up directly from the earlier shorts The Ninth Jedi and The Ninth Jedi: Child of Hope. In the story, Lah Kara advances her Jedi training under the guidance of Margrave Juro and embarks on a profound journey of self-discovery alongside a dedicated group of trainee Jedi, all led by Juro in a mission to rescue her father.
The English dub features several returning voice talents, including Kimiko Glenn reprising her role as Lah Kara and Andrew Kishino as Juro. Additional familiar performers are Masi Oka as Ethan, Patrick Seitz as Homen, JP Karliak as Gramps, Simu Liu as Lah Zhima, and Neil Kaplan as The Narrator. New additions to the English cast bring fresh energy with Feodor Chin as Gennoh, Young Mazino as Nawaam, Chase Sui Wonders as Tafflah, and Keone Young as Kwana.
Watch the English dub trailer below:
For the Japanese version, returning voices include Chinatsu Akasaki as Lah Kara and Tetsuo Kanao as Juro. The lineup also features Hiromu Mineta as Ethan along with performances by Hinata Tadokoro, Cho, Shinichiro Miki, and Akio Otsuka in key supporting roles as Homen, Gramps, Lah Zhima, and The Narrator respectively. This talented ensemble ensures an authentic and immersive audio experience that complements the series' dynamic visuals.
Check out the Japanese dub trailer here:
Shunsuke Tada takes on directing duties for the series, working from a script by Mitsuyasu Sakai under the supervision of Kenji Kamiyama. A strong executive production team supports the project, featuring James Waugh, Jacqui Lopez, Josh Rimes, Justin Leach, and Mitsuhisa Ishikawa. Producers Hitoshi Ito and Kanako Shirasaki, alongside co-producer Caroline Keller, help guide the overall vision and execution.
The series format allows for deeper character development and more intricate plotlines compared to the original anthology shorts. Fans can expect rich exploration of Jedi philosophy, personal growth, and high-stakes conflicts set against the expansive Star Wars galaxy. Production I.G's renowned animation style brings fluid action sequences and detailed world-building that elevate the storytelling to new heights. The creative choices reflect a careful balance between honoring established lore and introducing fresh perspectives on the Force and its users.
This expansion under the Star Wars: Visions Presents label opens doors for future longer-form anime stories. It builds excitement by reconnecting audiences with compelling characters like Lah Kara while introducing new allies and challenges. The project's scope demonstrates Lucasfilm's commitment to diverse storytelling formats that appeal to global audiences through innovative animation.
Star Wars: Visions Presents - The Ninth Jedi will arrive on Disney+ and Hulu on August 5, 2026. The eight-episode limited series offers a highly anticipated return to this corner of the Star Wars saga. Viewers can look forward to witnessing Lah Kara's continued journey in this exciting anime format.
