A recent rumor suggests thatLokidirector Kate Herron may have been approached to take on the same role for the upcoming Disney+ seriesStar Wars: The Acolyte. If it’s true, this could mean great things for the new series, particularly after how wellLokiwas received among fans and newcomers alike.
The rumor comes from MakingStar Wars, which claims that several sources have mentioned Herron as a potential director for the series. According to the sources, she has, at the very least, been approached totake part inThe Acolyte. While this is little more than a rumor at this point, it does fit with other, more concrete reports thatThe Acolytehas begun production in Reading, England. As a British director, Herron would certainly be a convenient choice.
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The report also addresses Herron’s connection as a fellow LGBTQ+ filmmaker along withThe Acolyteshowrunner Leslye Headland. Herron spoke about this afterLokiconfirmed the titular character’s bisexual/pansexual status, stating that it was important to bring that aspect to the screen as it was also part of the comics. She isn’t the only one who sees the importance of expressing that identity, as Headland has also stated her intention forThe Acolyteto reflect her own Queer identity.
If Herron does join the series as director, it’s unclear whether she will be in charge of the whole thing or if she’ll be one of many. It could go either way, as differentStar Warsseries thus far have taken different approaches with their directors. Deborah Chow directed every episode ofObi-Wan Kenobi, for instance, whileThe MandalorianandThe Book of Boba Fettshared the duties among many. It may depend on how the story is told.Obi-Wan Kenobikept a tight narrative the whole way through, so one director made more sense. Meanwhile, the other 2 shows had a bit more of an episodic feel, allowing for more creative freedom for directors like Bryce Dallas Howard andRobert Rodriguez to let loose.
While little is known aboutThe Acolyte, it looks like it will be a bit of a departure from the media Star Wars fans are accustomed to. Set during the High Republic era and taking place over 100 years before the original trilogy, it carries the potential to tell some truly unique stories without feeling the pressure to tie itself into existing characters and plot points. It will be the first truly mainstreamStar Warsproject outside of the comics to really delve into that time period, so there’s a lot to be excited for.
Whether or not Herron really will take part inThe Acolyte, it’s definitely a project worth attention. She’s already confirmed she won’t return forLokiseason 2, so that means she’ll likely be free. Plus, given the impact she had as director ofLoki, it’s pretty clear that she’d be a real boon to theStar Warsuniverse. Along with her already proven talent,more LGBTQ+ stories and storytellersare always welcome.
