Chris Hardwick's Blog, page 199

Here Is Disney’s Full 2025 Slate (Including Marvel, STAR WARS, Pixar, and Other Nerdy Fare)

Disney’s release schedules are no joke to the nerds among us. These days, knowing what Disney will release and when is pretty key to anyone who loves superheroes, sci-fi, and many other kinds of genre television and movies. And so, as 2024 draws to an end, here’s a look at Disney’s full 2025 slate of movies and TV shows. In among the rest are, of course, Marvel’s 2025 offerings, a singular Star Wars project, Tron, Avatar, Pixar releases, Freakier Friday, Predator, and more.

Marvel Studios/Nerdist/DisneyThe Full Walt Disney Studios 2025 Slate & Release Dates ListYOUR FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD SPIDER-MAN – January 29, 2025 (Marvel / Disney+)CAPTAIN AMERICA: BRAVE NEW WORLD – February 14, 2025 (Marvel / Theatrical)WIN OR LOSE – February 19, 2025 (Pixar / Disney+)DAREDEVIL: BORN AGAIN – March 4, 2025 (Marvel / Disney+)SNOW WHITE – March 21, 2025 (Disney / Theatrical) THE AMATEUR – April 11, 2025 (20th Century / Theatrical)ANDOR SEASON 2 – April 22, 2025 (Lucasfilm / Disney+)THUNDERBOLTS* – May 2, 2025 (Marvel / Theatrical) LILO & STITCH – May 23, 2025 (Disney / Theatrical) ELIO – June 13, 2025 (Pixar / Theatrical)IRONHEART – June 24, 2025 (Marvel / Disney+)THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS – July 25, 2025 (Marvel / Theatrical)EYES OF WAKANDA – August 6, 2025 (Marvel / Disney+)FREAKIER FRIDAY – August 8, 2025 (Disney / Theatrical) MARVEL ZOMBIES – October 3, 2025 (Marvel / Disney+) TRON: ARES – October 10, 2025 (Disney / Theatrical) PREDATOR: BADLANDS – November 7, 2025 (20th Century / Theatrical) ZOOTOPIA 2 – November 26, 2025 (Disney / Theatrical)WONDER MAN – December 2025 (Marvel / Disney+)AVATAR: FIRE AND ASH – December 19, 2025 (20th Century / Theatrical)Learn More About the Movies & TV Shows on Disney’s 2025 Slate

YOUR FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD SPIDER-MAN – January 29, 2025 (Marvel / Disney+)

Read More:

Here’s Your First Look at All of Marvel’s Upcoming Animated Series and WHAT IF…? Season Three

CAPTAIN AMERICA: BRAVE NEW WORLD – February 14, 2025 (Marvel / Theatrical)

Read More:

We Have Our First Look at Red Hulk From CAPTAIN AMERICA: BRAVE NEW WORLD

WIN OR LOSE – February 19, 2025 (Pixar / Disney+)

Read More:

All the D23 Updates From MARVEL, STAR WARS, and More

DAREDEVIL: BORN AGAIN – March 4, 2025 (Marvel / Disney+)

Read More:

Kingpin Wonders About Matt Murdock’s Darker Half in DAREDEVIL: BORN AGAIN Clip

SNOW WHITE – March 21, 2025 (Disney / Theatrical) 

Read More:

DISNEY’S SNOW WHITE Trailer Reveals Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen

THE AMATEUR – April 11, 2025 (20th Century / Theatrical)

ANDOR SEASON 2 – April 22, 2025 (Lucasfilm / Disney+)

Read More:

ANDOR Season 2 Sets April 2025 Release Date

THUNDERBOLTS* – May 2, 2025 (Marvel / Theatrical) 

Read More:

Latest THUNDERBOLTS* Trailer Reveals Avengers Tower’s New Owner

LILO & STITCH – May 23, 2025 (Disney / Theatrical) 

Read More:

ELIO – June 13, 2025 (Pixar / Theatrical)

Read More:

ELIO Teaser Trailer Gives Earth an Unexpected Leader in New Pixar Adventure

IRONHEART – June 24, 2025 (Marvel / Disney+)

Read More:

Riri Williams Is Ready to Go to the Extreme in New IRONHEART Clip and Image

THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS – July 25, 2025 (Marvel / Theatrical)

Read More:

THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS Reveals Teaser and Official Title

EYES OF WAKANDA – August 6, 2025 (Marvel / Disney+)

Read More:

Here’s Your First Look at All of Marvel’s Upcoming Animated Series and WHAT IF…? Season Three

FREAKIER FRIDAY – August 8, 2025 (Disney / Theatrical) 

Read More:

FREAKIER FRIDAY Wraps Filming, Plus Manny Jacinto’s Role Revealed

MARVEL ZOMBIES – October 3, 2025 (Marvel / Disney+) 

TRON: ARES – October 10, 2025 (Disney / Theatrical) 

Read More:

Nine Inch Nails Set to Score TRON: ARES

PREDATOR: BADLANDS – November 7, 2025 (20th Century / Theatrical) 

Read More:

New PREDATOR Movie BADLANDS Eyes Elle Fanning as Star (Report)

ZOOTOPIA 2 – November 26, 2025 (Disney / Theatrical)

Read More:

All the D23 Updates From MARVEL, STAR WARS, and More

WONDER MAN – December 2025 (Marvel / Disney+)

Read More:

First WONDER MAN Footage Shows Yahya Abdul-Mateen II’s Humorous Journey

AVATAR: FIRE AND ASH – December 19, 2025 (20th Century / Theatrical)

Read More:

All the D23 Updates From MARVEL, STAR WARS, and More

The post Here Is Disney’s Full 2025 Slate (Including Marvel, STAR WARS, Pixar, and Other Nerdy Fare) appeared first on Nerdist.

Here Is Marvel Studios’ Full 2025 Slate of MCU Movies and TV Shows

Walt Disney Studios recently confirmed its full slate of 2025 movies and TV shows. There are definitely many nerdy offerings in play this upcoming year, ranging from Tron to Freakier Friday. Sadly for some fans, there’s only one Star Wars offering, Andor season two. But Marvel-heads can rejoice because it’s about to be a bountiful year for Marvel Studios and the MCU. 2025 promises a plethora of varied and exciting movies and TV series that take place in the Marvel world. Below, we share the full MCU slate of 2025 releases from Marvel Studios. We’re looking at nine MCU releases in 2025, if you can believe it! We’ll give you a list first and then follow up with links to learn even more about all the upcoming superhero fun. Ready? Let’s dive into Marvel Studios’ full 2025 slate.

Marvel StudiosThe Full Marvel Studios 2025 Slate & MCU Release Dates ListYOUR FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD SPIDER-MAN – January 29, 2025 (Marvel / Disney+)CAPTAIN AMERICA: BRAVE NEW WORLD – February 14, 2025 (Marvel / Theatrical)DAREDEVIL: BORN AGAIN – March 4, 2025 (Marvel / Disney+)THUNDERBOLTS* – May 2, 2025 (Marvel / Theatrical) IRONHEART – June 24, 2025 (Marvel / Disney+)THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS – July 25, 2025 (Marvel / Theatrical)EYES OF WAKANDA – August 6, 2025 (Marvel / Disney+)MARVEL ZOMBIES – October 3, 2025 (Marvel / Disney+) WONDER MAN – December 2025 (Marvel / Disney+)Learn More About the 2025 MCU Movie & TV Show Releases

YOUR FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD SPIDER-MAN – January 29, 2025 (Marvel / Disney+)

Synopsis: “Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man” is an animated series that follows Peter Parker on his way to becoming a hero, with a journey unlike we’ve ever seen and a style that celebrates the character’s early comic book roots.

Read More:

Here’s Your First Look at All of Marvel’s Upcoming Animated Series and WHAT IF…? Season Three

CAPTAIN AMERICA: BRAVE NEW WORLD – February 14, 2025 (Marvel / Theatrical)

Synopsis: Anthony Mackie returns as the high-flying hero Sam Wilson, who’s officially taken up the mantle of Captain America. After meeting with newly elected U.S. President Thaddeus Ross, Sam finds himself in the middle of an international incident. He must discover the reason behind a nefarious global plot before the true mastermind has the entire world seeing red.

Read More:

We Have Our First Look at Red Hulk From CAPTAIN AMERICA: BRAVE NEW WORLD

DAREDEVIL: BORN AGAIN – March 4, 2025 (Marvel / Disney+)

Synopsis: In Marvel Television’s “Daredevil: Born Again,” Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox), a blind lawyer with heightened abilities is fighting for justice through his bustling law firm, while former mob boss Wilson Fisk (Vincent D’Onofrio) pursues his own political endeavors in New York. When their past identities begin to emerge, both men find themselves on an inevitable collision course. The series also stars Margarita Levieva, Deborah Ann Woll, Elden Henson, Zabryna Guevara, Nikki James, Genneya Walton, Arty Froushan, Clark Johnson, Michael Gandolfini, with Ayelet Zurer and Jon Bernthal. Dario Scardapane is showrunner. Episodes are directed by Justin Benson & Aaron Moorhead, Michael Cuesta, Jeffrey Nachmanoff, and David Boyd; and executive producers are Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Brad Winderbaum, Sana Amanat, Chris Gary, Dario Scardapane, Chris Ord & Matt Corman, and Justin Benson & Aaron Moorhead. “Daredevil: Born Again” launches on Disney+ on March 4, 2025.

Read More:

Kingpin Wonders About Matt Murdock’s Darker Half in DAREDEVIL: BORN AGAIN Clip

THUNDERBOLTS* – May 2, 2025 (Marvel / Theatrical) 

Synopsis: Marvel Studios and a crew of indie veterans who sold out present Thunderbolts*, an irreverent team-up featuring depressed assassin Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh) alongside the MCU’s least anticipated band of misfits.

Read More:

Everything We Know About the MCU’s THUNDERBOLTS* Movie

IRONHEART – June 24, 2025 (Marvel / Disney+)

Synopsis: Set after the events of “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” Marvel Television’s “Ironheart” pits technology against magic when Riri Williams (Dominique Thorne)—a young, genius inventor determined to make her mark on the world—returns to her hometown of Chicago. Her unique take on building iron suits is brilliant, but in pursuit of her ambitions, she finds herself wrapped up with the mysterious yet charming Parker Robbins aka “The Hood” (Anthony Ramos). The series also stars Lyric Ross, Alden Ehrenreich, Regan Aliyah, Manny Montana, Matthew Elam and Anji White. Chinaka Hodge is head writer; episodes are directed by Sam Bailey and Angela Barnes. Executive producers include Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Brad Winderbaum, Zoie Nagelhout, Chinaka Hodge, Ryan Coogler, Sev Ohanian and Zinzi Coogler. Produced in association with Proximity Media, “Ironheart” launches on Disney+ June 24, 2025.

Read More:

Riri Williams Is Ready to Go to the Extreme in New IRONHEART Clip and Image

THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS – July 25, 2025 (Marvel / Theatrical)

Synopsis: Set against the vibrant backdrop of a 1960s-inspired, retro-futuristic world, Marvel Studios’ “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” introduces Marvel’s First Family—Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic (Pedro Pascal), Sue Storm/Invisible Woman (Vanessa Kirby), Johnny Storm/Human Torch (Joseph Quinn) and Ben Grimm/The Thing (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) as they face their most daunting challenge yet. Forced to balance their roles as heroes with the strength of their family bond, they must defend Earth from a ravenous space god called Galactus (Ralph Ineson) and his enigmatic Herald, Silver Surfer (Julia Garner). And if Galactus’ plan to devour the entire planet and everyone on it weren’t bad enough, it suddenly gets very personal.

Read More:

THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS Reveals Official Plot Synopsis, Confirms Silver Surfer Casting

EYES OF WAKANDA – August 6, 2025 (Marvel / Disney+)

Synopsis: Marvel Animation’s new action-adventure series “Eyes of Wakanda” follows the adventures of
brave Wakandan warriors throughout history. In this globe-trotting adventure, the heroes must carry-out dangerous missions to retrieve Vibranium artifacts from the enemies of Wakanda. They are the Hatut Zaraze and this is their story. Featuring the voices of Winnie Harlow, Cress Williams, Patricia Belcher, Larry Herron, Adam Gold, Lynn Whitfield, Jacques Colimon, Jona Xiao, Isaac Robinson-Smith, Gary Anthony Williams, Zeke Alton, Steve Toussaint and Anika Noni Rose, “Eyes of Wakanda” is helmed by director/executive producer Todd Harris, with Ryan Coogler executive producing. The show is also executive produced by Brad Winderbaum, Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito and Dana Vasquez-Eberhardt, and Proximity Media’s Zinzi Coogler, Sev Ohanian and Kalia King. “Eyes of Wakanda” launches on Disney+ Aug. 6, 2025.

Read More:

Here’s Your First Look at All of Marvel’s Upcoming Animated Series and WHAT IF…? Season Three

MARVEL ZOMBIES – October 3, 2025 (Marvel / Disney+) 

Synopsis: It’s Marvel Zombies!

Read More:

Here’s Your First Look at All of Marvel’s Upcoming Animated Series and WHAT IF…? Season Three

WONDER MAN – December 2025 (Marvel / Disney+)

Synopsis: Not yet released.

Read More:

First WONDER MAN Footage Shows Yahya Abdul-Mateen II’s Humorous Journey

Phew, that’s all she wrote for the 2025 Marvel slate! Now we just have to get ready to watch it all.

The post Here Is Marvel Studios’ Full 2025 Slate of MCU Movies and TV Shows appeared first on Nerdist.

THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS Reveals Official Plot Synopsis, Confirms Silver Surfer Casting

When Disney purchased 20th Century Fox, lo those many years ago, that immediately meant all the X-Men characters could appear in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It also meant Fox’s other (and let’s face it, far less successful) Marvel property, the Fantastic Four, was joining the fray. However, aside from a Reed Richards cameo in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, the Fantastic Four have been MIA. But, hope is on the horizon! The Fantastic Four: First Steps will be part of the MCU’s Phase Six.

Most recently, Marvel Studios confirmed the official plot synopsis for The Fantastic Four: First Steps. It reads:

Set against the vibrant backdrop of a 1960s-inspired, retro-futuristic world, Marvel Studios’ “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” introduces Marvel’s First Family—Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic (Pedro Pascal), Sue Storm/Invisible Woman (Vanessa Kirby), Johnny Storm/Human Torch (Joseph Quinn) and Ben Grimm/The Thing (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) as they face their most daunting challenge yet. Forced to balance their roles as heroes with the strength of their family bond, they must defend Earth from a ravenous space god called Galactus (Ralph Ineson) and his enigmatic Herald, Silver Surfer (Julia Garner). And if Galactus’ plan to devour the entire planet and everyone on it weren’t bad enough, it suddenly gets very personal.

Here’s everything we know about the MCU’s The Fantastic Four: First Steps movie.

TitleMarvel Studios

All the initial branding from Marvel indicated the movie’s title would be Fantastic Four. Now, we know that the MCU’s Fantastic Four movie will be called The Fantastic Four: First Steps.

The Fantastic Four: First Stepss Plot

The film gave SDCC attendees a glimpse into its world, which takes place in a retro-futuristic 1960s NYC. Additionally, we now have an official synopsis for The Fantastic Four: First Steps:

Set against the vibrant backdrop of a 1960s-inspired, retro-futuristic world, Marvel Studios’ “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” introduces Marvel’s First Family—Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic (Pedro Pascal), Sue Storm/Invisible Woman (Vanessa Kirby), Johnny Storm/Human Torch (Joseph Quinn) and Ben Grimm/The Thing (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) as they face their most daunting challenge yet. Forced to balance their roles as heroes with the strength of their family bond, they must defend Earth from a ravenous space god called Galactus (Ralph Ineson) and his enigmatic Herald, Silver Surfer (Julia Garner). And if Galactus’ plan to devour the entire planet and everyone on it weren’t bad enough, it suddenly gets very personal.

Marvel ComicsBehind the Scenes

In August 2022, Marvel named Matt Shakman—who had directed WandaVision for Disney+—as the film’s director. Feige confirmed this at the D23 Expo in September of that same year.

Later in September, Marvel said Jeff Kaplan and Ian Springer were writing the script for The Fantastic Four. By March 2023, Terminator franchise and Avatar: The Way of Water screenwriter Josh Friedman was at work rewriting the script. In October 2023, Cameron Squires’ name was added as co-writer.

Speaking to The Official Marvel podcast, Kevin Feige confirmed exactly when The Fantastic Four: First Steps movie would begin to film. He revealed, “We start shooting at the end of July… The day after [San Diego] Comic-Con is the first day of filming on Fantastic Four.” That means The Fantastic Four: First Steps begins filming on in late July. He also confirmed that the movie would be a period piece set in the 1960s.

The fantastic quartet—Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach—are already hanging out for their “first mission.” Pascal shared the candid photo of the cast on his IG page.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ Cast

The MCU’s Fantastic Four team has officially set its cast. Pedro Pascal will play Reed Richards, a.k.a. Mister Fantastic. Vanessa Kirby will play Sue Storm, a.k.a. the Invisible Woman. Ebon Moss-Bachrach will play The Thing. Finally, Joseph Quinn will play Johnny Storm, a.k.a. the Human Torch.

Netflix/Marvel Comics

Julia Garner (Ozark, Inventing Anna) will play the Shalla-Bal version of Silver Surfer. In the comics, Shalla-Bal appeared as Norrin Radd’s partner, but at one point, she received the same powers as the Silver Surfer and they were both Galactus’ heralds.

Paul Walter Hauser has also joined the cast, as have John Malkovich and Natasha Lyonne. We don’t know who these actors are playing. We do know Ralph Ineson will be playing Galactus.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ Release Date

The Fantastic Four: First Steps will release on July 25, 2025.

Originally published on December 22, 2023.

The post THE FANTASTIC FOUR: FIRST STEPS Reveals Official Plot Synopsis, Confirms Silver Surfer Casting appeared first on Nerdist.

Riri Williams Is Ready to Go to the Extreme in New IRONHEART Clip and Image

In 2020, Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige announced that Riri Williams, a.k.a. Ironheart, would spring to life from comic pages in her own original series starring Dominique Thorne. Ironheart will be part of Phase Five. While details about the series are still pretty scarce, Riri Williams’ comic history will provide its foundation. We finally met Riri “Ironheart” Williams in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, an appearance that set the stage for diving into her story.

A new Ironheart clip reveals that Riri is probably going to do some extreme things to become an icon. Honestly, if Anthony Ramos asks you to get into (likely criminal) shenanigans, you get into (likely criminal) shenanigans. We also get a new image of Riri in full Ironheart action.

Marvel Studios

The above teaser is not too different from the first true teaser for Ironheart that shows Riri getting into some possibly bad deeds in order to fund her big dreams. We also get a look at The Hood, who will act as an antagonist in the series.

The first teaser for ‘IRONHEART’ has been released.

Premiering June 24 on Disney+ pic.twitter.com/wI8wUHy52i

— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) October 30, 2024

Here’s everything you need to know about Ironheart. 

TitleDisney/Marvel Studios

The series title is Marvel Studios’ Ironheart. 

Ironheart‘s Plot

Ironheart will focus on Riri Williams, a brilliant Black girl inventor who creates a high-tech metal suit like Iron Man’s. As we discover in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Riri is a 19-year-old MIT student who is “running” a homework business. Oh, and she also builds a vibranium detection machine that puts her in the path of Namor, the leader of a underwater nation who is willing to kill her to protect his people. Of course, she’s alive and well at the end of the film and heading back to Massachusetts… for now. Right now, there are no solid details about the show. But it is possible that the show will bounce between her native Chicago and MIT, where MJ and Ned also happen to be.

An official synopsis shares:

Set after the events of “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” Marvel Television’s “Ironheart” pits technology against magic when Riri Williams (Dominique Thorne)—a young, genius inventor determined to make her mark on the world—returns to her hometown of Chicago. Her unique take on building iron suits is brilliant, but in pursuit of her ambitions, she finds herself wrapped up with the mysterious yet charming Parker Robbins aka “The Hood” (Anthony Ramos).

Behind the Scenes 

Playwright, poet, and Snowpiercer writer Chinaka Hodge will lead the show’s writing team as a head writer. According to Deadline, Sam Bailey and Angela Barnes will direct the series. In addition, Proximity, Ryan Coogler’s production company, will serve as one of the show’s producers. Coogler is also onboard the series as an executive producer alongside Kevin Feige. Ironheart finished filming in November 2022.

Marvel StudiosIronheart‘s Cast

Dominique Thorne will take on the leading role of Riri “Ironheart” Williams in the MCU. She will be joined by Anthony Ramos of Hamilton and In the Heights fame, who will play The Hood. This Is Us mainstay Lyric Ross will portray Riri’s best friend. In the comics, Riri’s BFF Natalie died way before she became an iron hero but lived on through N.A.T.A.L.I.E. This AI program takes her friend’s form and they work together much like Stark and J.A.R.V.I.S. did. It remains to be seen if this friend will be alive, appear in flashbacks, or operate as AI in the series. Or, perhaps it is not Natalie at all but rather a new character.

Other cast members include Manny Montana, Alden Ehrenreich, Zoe Terakes, Shakira Barrera, Jim Rash, Shea Couleé, Regan Aliyah, Rashida “Sheedz” Olayiwola, Sonia Denis, Paul Calderón, and Cree Summer.

A new Marvel filing with the U.S. Copyright Office Public Records System also reveals that Sacha Baron Cohen will appear in Ironheart as “Mystery Man.” Very mysterious indeed.

Marvel Comics/Marvel StudiosIronheart‘s Release Date

Ironheart will hit Disney+ on June 24, 2025.

Originally published on March 1, 2022. 

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ANDOR Season 2 Is 2025’s Only STAR WARS Project

Although there are many Star Wars movies currently in development and many Disney+-focused Star Wars series with constantly rumored next seasons, there is only one Star Wars project currently planned for 2025. Disney recently confirmed its 2025 slate, and, noticeably, the only Star Wars project listed on its schedule was Andor season two. In 2024, for comparison, we saw six Star Wars television series cross our path. We’ve seen reports that Disney planned to reduce its output in such a way, but after the immense amount of Star Wars series that have released in past years, it does feel a little bereft.

Lucasfilm

Still, if we had to pick just one Star Wars project to see next year—it absolutely would be Andor season two. Andor‘s second season might be the only Star Wars project on Disney’s slate for 2025, but it will surely pack the punch of many. Season one of Andor was among the best seasons of television to ever exist, Star Wars or not. And we’re still thinking about what the show had to say about revolution, freedom, hope, and heroes.

Lucasfilm

We bet that by 2026, we’ll have at least a few solid Star Wars movie announcements to accompany any further television series overtures. Ahsoka has a confirmed second season in the works, so we’ll likely see that. And rumors of another season of Obi-Wan Kenobi swirl all the time. One season of television series and one Star Wars movie per year is probably more than enough to keep fans happy without overworking the IP. However, if we’re getting only one Star Wars series per year, as we are in 2025, we would encourage Disney and Lucasfilm to set their sights on powerful fare like Andor and more original stories like The Acolyte. (And we wouldn’t mind The Acolyte season two either.)

Lucasfilm

Even if the Star Wars‘ world is literally shrinking with less projects releasing every year, we’d love for it to spiritually build. In the meanwhile, we’ll look forward to our only 2025 Star Wars offering, Andor season two.

Andor season two’s official synopsis shares:

“Andor,” the acclaimed thriller, returns for its long-awaited conclusion. The twelve episodes of Season Two will carry the story of Cassian Andor and the emerging rebel alliance over the climactic four years that lead to the discovery of The Death Star and the events of “Rogue One.” Season One followed Cassian’s reluctant journey from cynical nobody to revolutionary volunteer. “Andor” Season Two will see him transform from soldier to leader to hero on the way to his epic destiny. From the very first scene, Cassian’s story has activated an ever-widening ensemble of allies and enemies. Season Two will see these relationships intensify as the horizon of galactic war draws near. Everyone will be tested and, as the stakes rise, the betrayals, sacrifices and conflicting agendas will become profound. Who will live to see their dream realized? Who will realize what that dream cost?

The post ANDOR Season 2 Is 2025’s Only STAR WARS Project appeared first on Nerdist.

Sister Lila Would Use Her Powers to Give Arrakis Back to the Fremen, Says Chloe Lea

In Dune‘s world, many characters are driven by some kind of ambition—ambition for power, ambition for glory, ambition to be known in the world. But Dune: Prophecy‘s Sister Lila, played by Chloe Lea, is a much different kind of character. This character, new to the universe of Dune, is driven instead by kindness and the ambition to do good and help those around her. In a dangerous world full of power plays and backstabbing, Sister Lila is the kind of person we long to root for.

HBO

At Dune: Prophecy‘s New York City premiere, Nerdist chatted with Chloe Lea about Sister Lila and dove into what motivates this gentle member of the Sisterhood, what she would do if she were in charge, and how Chloe Lea became a huge Dune nerd. (We approve!)

Nerdist: Sister Lila adds the power of kindness into the mix of the Sisterhood’s powers. What kind of sister do you think Lila would want to be, ideally?

Chloe Lea: I think she wants to be someone who feels like she can do the right thing for the Sisterhood, and I think she’d want the Sisterhood to be quite a moral place that kind of works for people and looks out for them. And yeah, I don’t know how supportive she’d be of everything that’s currently happening in the Sisterhood. But I think, yeah, Lila, her true nature is to be an empath, and I think she really cares about the underdogs and people who are kind of less fortunate than her.

HBO

So, if Lila could become in charge of the Sisterhood, what do you think she would do?

I feel like if she were involved with Arakkis at all, her main thing would be helping out the Fremen and trying to bring them peace and make sure that they have access to their own territory.

Sister Lila is not a character from Dune‘s lore, but did you look to the lore at all as you were sort of preparing to be her?

I did. I looked at the lore of the Sisterhood and just what it meant to train to be a sister, and that was basically all I did for my character. The rest of what I looked at was kind of just out of my own personal interest. I was really interested in the Orange Catholic Bible and the Butlerian Jihad and all of that. I mean, I just found that all very fascinating. But yeah, that was for my own personal curiosity once I got sucked into this world.

And what do you think Sister Lila’s main motivation is as a character?

She just wants to find out who she is. She wants to figure out who she is, which, I think, is quite a relatable thing, especially for a teenager. I also feel like she wants to find her purpose in the Sisterhood. I think she really cares about the order, and she believes that it can do good things.

Finally, how did you first get introduced to the world of Dune?

It was through the audition for this role, which is insane because it feels like I knew nothing about Dune‘s universe, and now I know far too much; I’m trying to learn more. So I think I was introduced through getting the role, and I’m so grateful that I was because I’m so happy to be a part of something so immense.

Dune: Prophecy premieres on Max on November 17.

Editor’s Note: Dune: Prophecy is a Legendary Entertainment production. Nerdist is a subsidiary of Legendary Digital Networks.

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Jade Anouka Reveals How Sister Theodosia Would Run Things on DUNE: PROPHECY

In Dune: Prophecy, the women of Dune‘s fabled sect, the Sisterhood (soon to be known as the Bene Gesserit), take center stage. As we get to know the various players of the Sisterhood in Dune: Prophecy‘s episodes, Jade Anouka’s Sister Theodosia is sure to catch our eye. Sister Theodosia has a special relationship with Mother Superior Valya Harkonnen, the series’ main character, and has something of a mysterious past. All we know at the outset, though, is that the Sisterhood gave Sister Theodosia sanctuary at a time of great need. But undoubtedly, her past will come into play as Dune: Prophecy‘s mysteries unfold.

At Dune: Prophecy‘s New York City premiere, we had the pleasure of speaking with Jade Anouka about Sister Theodosia, more affectionately known as Theo, and both the character and actor’s journey into Dune‘s world.

HBO

Nerdist: What do you think Theo’s main motivation is in her Dune: Prophecy journey?

Jade Anouka: I think, for Theo, it’s to be seen, to be seen for who she is, her real capabilities, her heart, and her soul, rather than what she can do.

Ideally, what kind of sister do you think Theo wants to be?

Anouka: I think she wants to be the best. I think she wants to be able to work hard and to be able to do all the things that Valya can do, really.

HBO

And if she were in charge, how do you think Theo would run the Sisterhood in Dune: Prophecy?

Anouka: I don’t think she would run it that well, actually. I think she’d be like: “Everyone, embrace your personality, your creativity. I think we need new fits. We need to change these costumes. Everyone wear what represents you. I want to see your personality.”

Which doesn’t really shout “Sisterhood, above all.” It more shouts, “Do you, girl.”

It sounds like Theo is really leading with her passion. But the Sisterhood doesn’t really like individuality all that much. Is there a tension at work between Theo and the organization?

Anouka: Well, I think that’s a really interesting thing that we discover about Theo and about how our individuality, and particularly her individual individuality, comes out. She’s actually in the Sisterhood to fit in and to be part of something that respects her. So, in some ways, it actually does work quite well for her.

Would you characterize Theo, overall, as a good character, an evil character, or kind of a gray area character in Dune: Prophecy?

Anouka: I think she’s a really good character. I think she is a good character, but she’s also the product of her past.

How did you first get introduced to Dune and the whole Dune universe?

Anouka: I saw the first Denis Villeneuve film. I think it came out just around audition time. So yeah, I think I saw the first film, and that was my first in to the Dune world.

HBO

And did you go into the Dune books at all to help you prepare for Dune: Prophecy? Or did you study mostly the cinematic universe?

Anouka: Yeah, it was the cinematic universe. I think there was talk about how our show—we’d be diving into the Sisterhood of Dune, but I know that there’s a lot of movement there. And I was told that my character doesn’t actually exist in the books. And so I was like, actually, I don’t know how helpful that will be. And so, it became more about working with what I was given in the text and trusting that the showrunner and the writers, who know the Dune universe really well. And so they would write the things that were needed, and that’s how they would tell me what I needed to know about Dune.

And to finish off, can you tease a little bit about your favorite scene from Dune: Prophecy?

Anouka: My favorite scene. Oh, they’re all so good. But, basically, it’s episodes four, five, and six. That’s when Theo really comes into her own.

Dune: Prophecy premieres on Max on November 17.

Editor’s Note: Dune: Prophecy is a Legendary Entertainment production. Nerdist is a subsidiary of Legendary Digital Networks.

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CRITICAL ROLE Releases a Collectible Card Game for 10th Anniversary

Critical Role is partnering with UVS Games to release two starter decks and a booster set for the UniVersus collectible card game series. The release titled Critical Role: Heroes of Exandria will be available for purchase in March of next year to celebrate Critical Role‘s 10th Anniversary.

UVS Games

As a part of the release are two pre-constructed starter decks that are perfect for new players. Each of the decks has a different pair of characters with unique powers and abilities. The cards reflect the characters’ gameplay style and personality. Characters include Percival de Rolo and Beauregard Lionett.

The booster pack has over 200 cards featuring different abilities, characters, and more. There are new synergies and mechanics inspired by the magic of Mighty Nein and Vox Machina. The booster pack includes 20 different highly requested heroes.

UVS Games

“March 2025 not only marks the release of Heroes of Exandria, but also Critical Role’s 10th Anniversary—and we’re pulling out all the stops to celebrate! Expect a slew of exciting events and content that will immerse you in the world of Exandria like never before,” read the press release for the card packs. “From boss fight challenges to stunning alternate art cards and chromes, this release will be packed with surprises. Each of these elements brings the magic of Critical Role to life in UniVersus, making this a milestone you won’t want to miss! Prepare for stunning visuals, immersive gameplay, and unforgettable battles as you face down Exandria’s toughest foes.”

UVS Games has released Critical Role-inspired cards before, releasing two challenger series inspired by the show’s Vox Machina and Mighty Nein campaigns. The Challenger series had two pairs of characters: either half-elf twins Vax’ildan and Vex’ahlia or the detective duo Jester Lavorre and Nott the Brave. This was the first UniVersus card release with fully custom art.

UVS Games

The Critical Role: Heroes of Exandria Booster Set releases next year on March 7. It will be available for prerelease on February 28.

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DUNE: PROPHECY | Everything You Need to Know About the DUNIVERSE

Let the Spice flow, Dunatics! As fans prepare to return to the world of Dune with the new HBO Max series, Dune: Prophecy, Nerdist’s resident Dune expert is here to break down everything you need to know about this latest entry and how it fits into the Duniverse.

00:00 – Intro
08:35 – Dune Prophecy
10:15 – Character Introductions
19:06 – What is the Prophecy?

Editor’s note: Nerdist is a subsidiary of Legendary Digital Networks

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Sophie Turner Is Reportedly Playing Lara Croft in Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s TOMB RAIDER Series

Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s upcoming Tomb Raider series has reportedly found its Lara Croft in Sophie Turner. Many of us know her best for her role as Sansa Stark in Game of Thrones. We know that she can certainly dial up the badassery when needed, but her portraying the famous globe-trotting adventurer is not something we saw coming. Deadline first reported this news and, as of now, Amazon MGM is remaining mum about Sophie Turner’s supposed role as Lara. 

HBO

It will be interesting to see what happens when and if this news is confirmed. In the meantime, Lara Croft fans are certainly getting fed. The recent animated series on Netflix is getting a second season with Hayley Atwell returning to voice Lara Croft once again. We welcome you to the adventures, Sophie.

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