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Disney+ Expands Sci-Fi Universe Beyond Star Wars: What's Coming?

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  Published in Science and Technology on Monday, January 5th 2026 at 1:39 GMT by thedirect.com

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Beyond Star Wars: A Look at Disney+'s Sci-Fi Future – What's Coming in 2026 & Beyond?

Disney+ has become synonymous with Star Wars, but the platform is actively expanding its science fiction offerings beyond a galaxy far, far away. While recent years have seen some cancellations and shifts in strategy (more on that later), Disney’s ambition to build a robust library of sci-fi content remains strong. The Direct's recent article highlights several projects currently slated for release around 2026 and further into the future, painting a picture of what viewers can expect from Disney+’s science fiction lineup. The focus isn't just on big-budget spectacles; there's an effort to explore diverse subgenres and cater to different audiences.

The Big Three: Star Wars Dominance Continues (and Evolves)

Unsurprisingly, the bulk of Disney+'s 2026 sci-fi slate is anchored by Star Wars. Three major projects are currently in development:

• Star Wars: New Jedi Order: This series, based on the popular book series by authors Matthew Stover and Troy Denning, represents a significant departure from the established Skywalker saga. The story follows a new generation of Jedi facing off against a powerful Sith threat known as the "New Jedi Order." The Direct notes that this project is currently in early development, with no confirmed cast or showrunner yet. Given the scope of the book series and its complex narrative, New Jedi Order promises to be a substantial undertaking, potentially offering a more mature and morally grey storyline than previous Star Wars shows.
• Star Wars: The Acolyte: While technically slated for 2024, The Acolyte is crucial context. This series, set roughly 100 years before The Phantom Menace, explores the rise of dark side powers and the fall of the Jedi Order. Its success (or lack thereof) will likely influence the direction and tone of future Star Wars shows. As reported by StarWars.com, The Acolyte aims to subvert expectations and offer a fresh perspective on familiar events.
• Andor: Season 3: Following the critical acclaim of Andor’s first two seasons, a third season is in development. While details are scarce, showrunner Tony Gilroy has expressed his intention to continue exploring Cassian Andor's journey within the Rebellion. The Direct highlights that production on Season 3 has been significantly impacted by the recent Hollywood strikes, pushing back its release window and solidifying its placement around 2026.

Beyond Star Wars: Expanding Horizons in Sci-Fi

While Star Wars will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone of Disney+'s sci-fi strategy, several other projects are aiming to carve out their own niches:

• Tron: Ares: This long-awaited sequel to the cult classic Tron: Legacy is arguably the most anticipated non-Star Wars sci-fi project on the horizon. Directed by Joachim Rønning and Espen Sandberg (known for Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales) and starring Jared Leto, Ares promises to delve deeper into the digital world of the Grid. The Direct reports that production has been underway, but like many projects, it's faced delays due to the strikes. The film’s narrative will reportedly explore themes of artificial intelligence, identity, and free will – classic sci-fi tropes ripe for exploration within the Tron universe.
• Marvel's Secret Invasion: Although initially released in 2023, its impact on future Marvel projects is significant. The Direct mentions that while it didn’t perform as well as hoped, lessons learned from Secret Invasion's development and reception will likely inform the approach to other Marvel sci-fi series. The show's struggles highlight the challenges of balancing serialized storytelling with the broader MCU narrative.
• Other Potential Projects (Rumored & Speculative): The Direct also mentions several projects that are either in early stages or remain largely speculative, including potential adaptations of classic science fiction novels and explorations of new original concepts. These include whispers of a Foundation adaptation (though this has been previously attempted), and further exploration of Marvel’s cosmic side beyond the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise.

The Shifting Landscape: Cancellations & Strategic Adjustments

Disney+'s sci-fi ambitions haven't been without setbacks. The recent cancellation of shows like Futurama (which ultimately found a new home on Hulu) and the indefinite postponement of other projects demonstrate a shift in strategy. As reported by Variety, Disney is now prioritizing fewer, higher-quality series over a larger volume of content. This reflects a broader industry trend towards more sustainable production practices and a focus on maximizing return on investment. The strikes also significantly impacted development timelines across the board.

Looking Ahead: What to Expect from Disney+ Sci-Fi

The 2026 timeframe represents a crucial moment for Disney+'s science fiction programming. Star Wars: New Jedi Order has the potential to redefine the franchise's narrative scope, while Tron: Ares could reignite interest in a beloved but dormant property. However, success hinges on several factors: delivering compelling stories that resonate with audiences, navigating production challenges, and adapting to the evolving landscape of streaming entertainment. The focus on quality over quantity suggests a more curated approach, aiming for projects with long-term potential rather than short-term gains. While cancellations have occurred, Disney’s commitment to science fiction remains evident, promising a diverse range of stories for viewers eager to explore beyond the familiar.

I hope this article provides a comprehensive summary of The Direct's piece and offers valuable context about Disney+'s sci-fi future!