Jon Favreau, a seasoned veteran in the Disney movie universe, is teaming up with the House of Mouse once again, this time to bring the classic animated icon 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 create an exciting TV show centered around Oswald. He will take on the roles of writer and producer for this project, although specific details such as the plot and casting are yet to be disclosed.
Oswald the Lucky Rabbit holds a significant place in Disney's history of animated characters, yet his tenure with the company was brief. Conceived by Walt Disney himself, Oswald starred in only 26 silent cartoons from 1927 to 1928 before a rights dispute led Universal to take control. This event, detailed in our in-depth look at Disney’s 100-year history, marked a challenging time for Disney, but it also paved the way for the creation of Mickey Mouse.
Disney regained the rights to Oswald in 2006 and celebrated his return with its first new original short starring the character in 95 years in 2022. Now, with Favreau's involvement, Disney aims to revive Oswald not just as a nostalgic figure but as a vibrant character in modern storytelling. While a release date for this ambitious live-action and animation hybrid series remains under wraps, fans can look forward to its eventual debut on Disney+.
Beyond Oswald, Favreau has been deeply involved in some of Disney's newer franchises. Star Wars enthusiasts will recognize him as a key figure in expanding the galaxy far, far away through projects like The Mandalorian, Skeleton Crew, and Ahsoka. Additionally, Favreau has left an indelible mark on the Marvel Cinematic Universe, contributing both behind and in front of the camera over the past 15 years, and directing the 2019 remake of The Lion King. Fans can anticipate seeing him direct again with the upcoming theatrical release of The Mandalorian and Grogu in 2026.
Oswald's recent cinematic venture, Oswald: Down the Rabbit Hole, a horror movie featuring Ghostbusters star Ernie Hudson, was announced in 2023, just a year after Oswald entered the public domain. This marks the character's latest appearance on the big screen, showcasing his versatility and enduring appeal.
