In a thrilling expansion of the Star Wars: Visions universe, the beloved episode “The Ninth Jedi” is set to become a limited series in 2026. This announcement, made at Star Wars Celebration 2025, has ignited excitement among fans eager to delve deeper into the unique world and characters introduced in the original short.
A “Visions” Spinoff: What to Expect
Star Wars: Visions Presents: The Ninth Jedi promises to be a “bold new direction” for the Visions concept. Instead of the anthology format of previous seasons, this limited series will tell an ongoing story, allowing for greater depth and character development. Kenji Kamiyama, the supervising director of the original episode, returns to guide the series as script supervisor and general director, ensuring a cohesive vision.
Continuing the Story
The limited series will further explore the alternate Star Wars timeline established in “The Ninth Jedi.” This timeline exists generations after the events of the core Star Wars films, in an era where the Jedi Order is nearly forgotten and Sith Lords are attempting to prevent its resurgence.
“The Ninth Jedi”: A Synopsis
The original episode of Star Wars: Visions, “The Ninth Jedi,” takes place in a galaxy where the Jedi Order has faded into legend. A lightsaber-smith named Lah Zhima lives on the remote planet of Hy Izlan, where he rediscovered the ancient art of crafting lightsabers. His lightsabers possess a unique property: their blades change color based on the wielder’s connection to the Force and their inner alignment.
Margrave Juro, a mysterious figure, sends out a call to Force-sensitive individuals across the galaxy, promising them lightsabers. However, the invitation is also intercepted by dark forces. Lah Zhima’s daughter, Kara, is tasked with delivering the newly crafted lightsabers to the gathering.
When the potential Jedi ignite their lightsabers, it’s revealed that many of them wield red blades, signifying their allegiance to the dark side. Kara, along with a young Jedi named Ethan, and Margrave Juro, who reveals himself to be a Jedi, must confront the Sith imposters. The episode culminates in a dynamic lightsaber battle where Kara’s connection to the Force grows, and the true allegiance of some characters is revealed.
Key Characters
- Kara: The daughter of the lightsaber-smith, she demonstrates a strong connection to the Force and plays a pivotal role in the conflict.
- Lah Zhima: A talented lightsaber-smith who rediscovered the art of crafting lightsabers with unique properties.
- Margrave Juro: A mysterious figure who gathers Force-sensitive individuals, later revealed to be a Jedi.
- Ethan: A young Jedi who allies himself with Kara and Margrave Juro.
Why “The Ninth Jedi” Resonates With Fans
“The Ninth Jedi” has garnered widespread acclaim for its thrilling action, unique concepts, and compelling characters. Several elements contribute to its popularity:
- Original Story: The episode presents a fresh take on the Star Wars universe, free from the constraints of established canon, allowing for creative exploration of new ideas and possibilities.
- Intriguing Characters: Kara’s journey of self-discovery and the enigmatic nature of Margrave Juro captivate viewers, leaving them eager to learn more about their fates.
- Stunning Visuals: Production I.G.’s animation is praised for its dynamic action sequences and evocative portrayal of a galaxy in turmoil.
- Lightsaber Lore: The concept of lightsabers changing color based on the wielder’s alignment adds a new layer of depth to the iconic weapon, sparking discussions about the Force and its nuances.
Star Wars: Visions: A Unique Corner of the Galaxy
Star Wars: Visions is an anthology series that offers a diverse range of perspectives on the Star Wars universe. Each episode is created by different animation studios from around the world, bringing their unique cultural and artistic styles to the franchise.
Canon or Non-Canon?
The canonicity of Star Wars: Visions has been a topic of debate among fans. Officially, the first season was designed as a non-canon project, giving creators the freedom to reinterpret the Star Wars saga without adhering to strict continuity. However, some stories could potentially fit within the existing canon, depending on individual interpretation.
Executive producer James Waugh has stated that the goal of Visions is to explore the “texture and richness of the galaxy” and create new stories and characters that are influenced by the core elements of Star Wars.
Volume 3 and Beyond
Before The Ninth Jedi limited series arrives in 2026, fans can look forward to Star Wars: Visions Volume 3, set to release in October 2025. This volume will continue the anthology format, featuring nine new shorts from various Japanese animation studios.
Notably, Volume 3 will include sequel stories to episodes from Volume 1, including “The Duel,” “The Village Bride,” and “The Ninth Jedi”. The “Ninth Jedi” short, titled “The Ninth Jedi: Child of Hope,” will tease the story of a war that predates the events of the original short.
Speculations and Expectations
As the release of Star Wars: Visions Presents: The Ninth Jedi draws closer, fans are speculating about the potential storylines and character arcs.
- Kara’s Training: Will the series delve deeper into Kara’s training as a Jedi? How will she balance her responsibilities as a lightsaber-smith with her newfound connection to the Force?
- The New Jedi Order: Will Margrave Juro succeed in establishing a new Jedi Order? What challenges will they face in a galaxy still plagued by the remnants of the Sith?
- The Nature of the Sith: Who are the Sith Lords attempting to prevent the return of the Jedi? What are their motivations and how do they operate in this fractured galaxy?
- Lightsaber Lore: Will the series further explore the unique properties of Lah Zhima’s lightsabers? Could this technology play a crucial role in the conflict between the Jedi and the Sith?
Other Upcoming Star Wars Projects
Star Wars fans have much to anticipate beyond The Ninth Jedi limited series. Here are some other projects on the horizon:
- Star Wars: Visions Volume 3 (October 2025): The third installment of the animated anthology series, featuring nine new shorts from Japanese animation studios.
- Andor Season 2 (2025): The second season of the acclaimed live-action series, continuing the story of Cassian Andor’s journey to becoming a rebel spy.
- The Mandalorian & Grogu (May 2026): A live-action film continuing the story of Din Djarin and Grogu, directed by Jon Favreau.
- Maul – Shadow Lord (2026): An animated series focusing on Darth Maul’s efforts to rebuild his criminal empire after the Clone Wars, with Sam Witwer reprising his voice role.
Star Wars: Visions Presents: The Ninth Jedi represents an exciting expansion of the Star Wars universe, offering a unique and compelling story that resonates with fans. With its fresh take on the Jedi vs. Sith dynamic, intriguing characters, and stunning visuals, this limited series promises to be a must-watch for Star Wars enthusiasts when it arrives in 2026.
