Disney’s upcoming schedule has taken a significant turn, with the studio pulling a previously planned Star Wars film from its December 2026 release calendar. Fans of a galaxy far, far away may have to wait longer, but there’s exciting news for animation enthusiasts—Ice Age 6 is now set to hit theaters on December 18, 2026.
A New Frontier for Star Wars
The Star Wars universe is undergoing some changes. The movie originally slated for December 2026 remains a mystery, with no details disclosed before its removal. However, fans can look forward to a new Star Wars trilogy, with Simon Kinberg at the helm as writer and producer. Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy is also involved in the project, which is said to introduce new characters and steer clear of the Skywalker Saga.
Daisy Ridley’s Rey Skywalker will still shine in a separate project directed by Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, a film first teased at Star Wars Celebration in London in 2023. Meanwhile, another highly anticipated entry, The Mandalorian & Grogu, led by director Jon Favreau and starring Pedro Pascal, is slated for May 22, 2026, bringing the beloved Disney+ series to the big screen.
Ice Age Returns to Theaters
Fans of the beloved Ice Age franchise have a reason to celebrate as Disney confirmed at D23 Brazil that production is underway for the sixth installment. Voice talents Ray Romano, Queen Latifah, and John Leguizamo will reprise their iconic roles, ensuring another hilarious and heartwarming adventure.
The announcement marks the first theatrical Ice Age film since Disney acquired 21st Century Fox in 2019. The last entry, Ice Age: Collision Course (2016), achieved a global box office haul of over $400 million. With the new title, Disney continues to breathe life into one of the most cherished animated properties.
What This Means for Disney’s Future
Disney’s decision to reshuffle its release slate reflects its strategic planning in balancing major franchises. As Star Wars explores uncharted storytelling territories and Ice Age gears up to reunite fans with favorite characters, 2026 is shaping up to be a dynamic year for Disney.
As Kathleen Kennedy noted in a previous interview, “Star Wars is about telling bold stories with universal appeal, and we’re excited about the future.” Meanwhile, fans of family-friendly fare can look forward to Ice Age 6, a return to theaters that promises laughter and adventure.While fans may feel mixed emotions about the delayed Star Wars film, Disney’s lineup offers plenty to anticipate. Whether you’re ready to dive back into the Ice Age or explore new horizons in the Star Wars galaxy, 2026 will be a cinematic year to remember.
