Although we had already heard that Disney/Lucasfilm plan to keep all future
Star Wars projects in canon, there may be a more direct connection between the next live-action movie and the animated series which will soon debut on Disney XD than we'd figured. EW report that, even though Rebels takes place years before the events of
Episode IV, the plan is to make sure any creative elements (ie characters, ships, locations etc) introduced in the cartoon align with what we'll see in the upcoming movies.
Rebels executive producer Simon Kinberg (who is also a creative consultant on
Episode VII) tells the site:
“There is absolutely communication and integration between the different stories. We are very aware of what they’re doing in VII, and we also have to click into place with Episode IV.” There are characters, vehicles, imagery that are introduced in the show before we’ve ever seen them in the movies, possibly including VII.” So, in theory, not only could one of these new character make the transition to live action for
Episode VII, but we could see the likes of a younger version of Max von Sydow's (still unnamed) character on
Rebels? Sounds like anything is possible! Here are some more new stills.
"Star Wars Rebels’ continues the epic tradition of the legendary ‘Star Wars’ saga with all-new exciting, action-packed adventures. It is a dark time in the galaxy, as the evil Galactic Empire tightens its grip of power from world to world. As the series begins, Imperial forces have occupied a remote planet, ruling with an iron fist and ruining the lives of its people. But there are a select few who are brave enough to stand up against the endless Stormtroopers and TIE fighters of the Empire: the clever and motley crew of the starship “Ghost.” Together, this ragtag group will face threatening new villains, have thrilling adventures, and become heroes."
Star Wars Rebels takes place between Star Wars: Episode III and IV as the Empire tightens its grip on the galaxy and a rebellion begins to form. The series, executive produced by Dave Filoni, Simon Kinberg, and Greg Weisman, is scheduled to premiere in fall 2014 as a one-hour special telecast on Disney Channel and will be followed by a series on Disney XD.