It's been a stellar 2026 for Star Wars fans, and the momentum shows no signs of slowing. The year kicked off with the premiere of Maul — Shadow Lord, the franchise's first Disney+ series of the year, which finally gave the Sith Lord the spotlight he deserves. The show has already been renewed for a second season, with star Sam Witwer confirming that production is underway. Meanwhile, The Mandalorian and Grogu is currently playing in theaters, marking the first Star Wars theatrical release in seven years. Jon Favreau's film serves as a continuation of the beloved Disney+ series but is designed to be accessible to newcomers as well.
But amid all this new content, one classic continues to reign supreme. The Empire Strikes Back, widely regarded as not only the best Star Wars movie but one of the greatest films ever made, is proving its timeless appeal on streaming. This week marks 46 years since the movie first hit theaters, and it's currently one of the top 10 most-watched titles on Disney+ in more than 30 countries worldwide.
Directed by Irvin Kershner and written by Lawrence Kasdan and Leigh Brackett, The Empire Strikes Back took a darker turn for the saga, introducing iconic moments like the revelation of Darth Vader as Luke's father and the first appearance of Yoda. George Lucas produced the film on a modest budget of $18 million, and it went on to gross over $550 million globally. Today, it remains a benchmark for sci-fi storytelling and a fan favorite across generations.
Harrison Ford's portrayal of Han Solo is a key reason for the film's enduring popularity. His roguish charm and unexpected heroism made the character a cultural icon. The film's success on Disney+ underscores how streaming has given new life to classic titles, allowing younger audiences to discover them alongside the latest releases.
Looking ahead, the next Star Wars theatrical release after The Mandalorian and Grogu is Starfighter, set for May 28, 2027. Written by Jonathan Tropper and directed by Shawn Levy, the film stars Ryan Gosling. Before that, fans can look forward to Ahsoka Season 2, which has been delayed to early 2027.
For those who want to revisit the galaxy far, far away, The Empire Strikes Back is streaming now on Disney+. And if you're in the mood for more epic adventures, check out our ultimate ranking of epic adventure movies that redefine grand scale.
As Star Wars continues to expand across streaming and theaters, it's clear that the legacy of The Empire Strikes Back is stronger than ever. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, this is a film that demands to be seen—and rewatched.
