Jon Favreau Developing Oswald the Lucky Rabbit Series for Disney+

Disney movie veteran Jon Favreau is collaborating with the House of Mouse on an exciting new Disney+ series featuring the classic animated icon, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit. This project, as detailed in a Deadline report, will see Favreau blending his renowned live-action and animation skills to bring Oswald to life on the Disney streaming service. Favreau is set to serve as both writer and producer for the Oswald the Lucky Rabbit series, though specifics such as plot and casting remain under wraps for now.

Oswald the Lucky Rabbit holds a special place in Disney's vast roster of animated characters. Conceived by Walt Disney himself, Oswald starred in 26 silent cartoons from 1927 to 1928 before a rights dispute led to Universal taking control. This challenging period for Disney ultimately paved the way for the creation of Mickey Mouse. As highlighted in our comprehensive exploration of Disney's 100-year history, Oswald's departure was a significant turning point. Disney regained the rights to Oswald in 2006, and in 2022, released its first new original short starring the character in 95 years. Now, it seems Disney is eager to showcase Oswald beyond a mere symbol of its journey, with Favreau's series set to bring the character to a new audience. Although a release date for this project has not been announced, fans can look forward to this unique blend of live-action and animation in the future.

While Favreau is currently focused on reviving one of Disney's oldest animated properties, he has also been deeply involved in its newer universes. Star Wars enthusiasts will recognize him as a key figure driving the franchise forward with projects like The Mandalorian, Skeleton Crew, and Ahsoka. Additionally, Favreau has left a significant imprint on the Marvel Cinematic Universe over the past 15 years, both behind and in front of the camera, including directing the 2019 remake of The Lion King. Fans can anticipate his directorial touch once more with The Mandalorian and Grogu, slated for a theatrical release in 2026.

As Oswald the Lucky Rabbit prepares for a grand return to the Disney fold, it's worth noting that the character's most recent cinematic outing is still fresh in memory. Just a year after entering the public domain in 2023, Oswald: Down the Rabbit Hole was introduced as a horror movie featuring the classic character, with Ghostbusters actor Ernie Hudson in the lead role.