Last year, Disney+ and Lucasfilm finally moved forward with a Willow sequel series, based on Ron Howard’s 1988 fantasy film. However, one of the key figures behind the revival is leaving the show. Via The Hollywood Reporter, Crazy Rich Asians director Jon M. Chu announced his departure on Twitter.
“I’m heartbroken to let you all know that I unfortunately have to step away from directing Willow,” wrote Chu. “With the production schedule moving due to continued lockdowns in the UK, and with a new baby coming this summer (surprise!), the timing is just not going to work out for me and my family.”
“As you may know, Willow has been one of my favorite movies since I was a child,” added Chu. “So I’m devastated that I won’t be able to work with some of my heroes old and new like Kathy, Ron, Jon, Wendy, Michelle and the amazing cast and crew they’ve put together. Like a kid seeing Willow for the first time in the ’80s, I will look forward to watching this magical new world unfold as a very enthusiastic fan.”
RELATED: Three Actresses Join Disney+’s Willow Sequel Series
Warwick Davis will reprise his role as Willow Ufgood in the series. He will also be joined by Ellie Bamber, Cailee Spaeny, and Erin Kellyman. Spaeny will play Kit, a princess who goes on a quest to save her kidnapped twin brother. Bamber will portray Dove, “an unassuming kitchen maid” who joins Kit on her journey. They will also be accompanied by Jade (Kellyman), Dove’s friend and fiercely loyal servant.
Jonathan Kasdan and Wendy Mericle are showrunners on the Willow sequel series. Additionally, Howard will executive produce the series alongside Kathleen Kennedy, and Michelle Rejwan, with Roopesh Parekh and Hannah Friedman as co-executive producers.
How do you feel about Jon M. Chu’s departure from the Willow sequel show? Let us know in the comment section below!
Recommended Reading: Willow: The Storybook Based On the Movie
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