Disney To Slow Down Marvel Releases as It Eyes Return of 'Star Wars' Franchise

Disney CEO Bob Iger is making some new moves for the upcoming Marvel releases. As it scales back its streaming content due to cost-cutting measures, Marvel Studios is expected to be affected by the cuts Iger will be making.

Marvel head Kevin Feige appears to echoe similar sentiments as Iger, confirming to Entertainment Weekly, "The pace at which we're putting out the Disney+ shows will change so they can each get a chance to shine." Disney is looking to slow down the releases of Marvel content on their platforms. IN the last year, Disney released three films and three TV series which followed four films and five series released in 2021.

Previously, Disney announced five Disney+ series for 2023, but it seems that Loki and Secret Invasion are the only two series that are sure to arrive in 2023. Feige explained, "I do think one of the powerful aspects of being at Marvel Studios is having these films and shows hit the zeitgeist. But we want Marvel Studios and the MCU projects to really stand out and stand above. So, people will see that as we get further into Phase 5 and 6." He was asked if the new pace would mean spacing out series or if it meant putting out fewer shows in 2023. Feige responded, "Both, I think."

It is no surprise that Disney is focusing on the Star Wars franchise this year, hoping to bring it back to the big screens. On Disney+ alone, fans have gravitated towards live-action series like The Mandalorian, Andor, Obi-Wan Kenobi and The Book of Boba Fett. Disney is said to unveil a new film plan at Star Wars Celebration in April. An insider told The Hollywood Reporter that, "Lucasfilm may ramp up, but it will have to abide by the same fiscal discipline as the rest of the company." It remains to be seen what Disney has in store for 2023.

In other entertainment news, Bruce Willis has been diagnosed with dementia.