The cast and creative team behind Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord — including Sam Witwer (Maul) and Gideon Adlon (Devon Izara), along with executive producers Athena Yvette Portillo, Matt Michnovetz, and Brad Rau — break down the next chapter in Maul’s story, exploring power, legacy, and what it means to rebuild in a galaxy shaped by war.
About the Series
Set after the events of Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Maul – Shadow Lord follows Maul as he attempts to rebuild his criminal syndicate on a planet untouched by the Empire. Along the way, he encounters a disillusioned young Jedi Padawan who may become his next apprentice.
The series premieres on Disney+ April 6, 2026, with two episodes releasing weekly leading up to May 4.
Sam Witwer & Gideon Adlon | Watch the Interview
What We Asked Sam Witwer & Gideon Adlon
- Could Maul realistically face off against Darth Vader in this era?
- Does Devon Izara have any connection to Darth Talon?
- What defines the power dynamic between Maul and Devon?
- How does this series explore new sides of Maul beyond what fans have seen?
A New Master-Apprentice Dynamic
In our conversation with Sam Witwer and Gideon Adlon, the focus centered on how Shadow Lord reframes Maul — not just as a survivor, but as a teacher shaping something new.
Devon Izara introduces a different kind of dynamic, one rooted in uncertainty and potential rather than loyalty. The relationship isn’t built on tradition, but on shared instability and ambition.
Maul hasn’t known a lot of kindness so what does he know about kindness? What does he know about friendship? What does he know about actual connection with other beings….”
Expanding Maul Beyond The Clone Wars
Witwer emphasized that this version of Maul allows for deeper exploration of the character’s psyche. Rather than being defined solely by revenge, the series pushes into new territory — examining what drives Maul when survival is no longer enough.
Creative Team Interview | Watch the Conversation
What We Asked the Creative Team
- How did you evolve the animation to match the darker, pulpy tone of the series?
- What new layers does this series add to Maul’s story?
- How do new characters shift the power dynamics within the narrative?
- How are you pushing the Star Wars animated universe forward?
Building a Darker, Pulpy Star Wars
With executive producers Athena Yvette Portillo, Matt Michnovetz, and Brad Rau, the conversation shifted toward tone, world-building, and storytelling ambition.
The team leaned into a more stylized, pulpy aesthetic, allowing the series to feel distinct while still grounded in the larger Star Wars universe.
This approach gives Shadow Lord a sharper edge — one that aligns with Maul’s perspective and the darker corners of the galaxy.
Pushing the Star Wars Animated Universe Forward
The creative team also discussed how the series expands beyond familiar territory, introducing new characters, shifting alliances, and exploring themes of control, identity, and legacy.
Rather than revisiting past beats, Shadow Lord positions itself as a continuation that evolves the mythology in meaningful ways.
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I’m a dedicated aficionado of all things movies, pop culture, and entertainment. With a passion for storytelling and a love for the silver screen, I’m constantly immersed in the world of cinema, exploring new releases, classics, and hidden gems alike. As a fervent advocate for the power of film to inspire, entertain, and provoke thought, I enjoy sharing my insights, reviews, and recommendations with fellow enthusiasts.