Can Baby Yoda and ‘The Mandalorian’ Save the ‘Star Wars’ Franchise?

From a certain point of view, the past few years in the galaxy of “Star Wars” franchisedom have been like maneuvering through an asteroid field. But that was before Disney+ launched “The Mandalorian,” and, perhaps more importantly, before the introduction of Baby Yoda. In 2019 BBY (Before Baby Yoda), “Star Wars” fans were still reeling from the disappointing release of “Solo: A Star Wars Story,” a host of behind-the-scenes drama and strategic setbacks, and the contentious release of “Star Wars: Episode VII — The Last Jedi.” The brand that George Lucas has built has struggled recently to engender goodwill and confidence in Disney’s and Lucasfilm’s stewardship of the beloved property. Disney, however, doubled down on its faith in Lucasfilm head Kathleen Kennedy and has now delivered Baby Yoda and “The Mandalorian” to upset fans. Also Read: JJ Abrams Teases Palpatine's Return in 'Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker' “Star Wars” is inarguably one of Hollywood’s preeminent brands. The Lucas creation has grossed some $4.2 billion at the domestic box office — not including re-releases and special editions — since “Star Wars: Episode IV — A New Hope” first wowed audiences in 1977. And the brand is worth billions more in...

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