Disney has canceled a planned Star Wars movie centered on Ben Solo, which was set to be directed by Steven Soderbergh and star Adam Driver. The film was intended to continue the storyline following the events of 2019’s The Rise of Skywalker, but the project was ultimately rejected by Disney’s top executives.
Development of the Ben Solo Film and Involvement of Key Creatives
Adam Driver, who portrayed Kylo Ren, revealed that the idea to revisit the character emerged as early as 2021. Driver discussed the concept with Steven Soderbergh, who collaborated with producer Rebecca Blunt to draft an outline. This proposal was then presented to Lucasfilm leaders including Kathleen Kennedy, Carrie Beck, and Dave Filoni, all of whom expressed interest in the story’s direction.
Following approval from Lucasfilm, screenwriter Scott Z. Burns was brought on to write the screenplay. Driver described the script as
“one of the coolest (expletive) scripts I had ever been a part of,”
underscoring the creative enthusiasm behind the project.
Why Disney’s Leadership Rejected the Movie Concept
Despite initial support within Lucasfilm, Disney’s senior executives ultimately declined to proceed. Driver explained that while Lucasfilm understood the concept and supported their vision, Disney CEO Bob Iger and Disney Entertainment co-chairman Alan Bergman did not believe Ben Solo’s survival in the story was credible. The film, titled The Hunt for Ben Solo, was therefore shelved indefinitely.
Reflections from Adam Driver and Steven Soderbergh on the Cancelled Project
Driver expressed regret that fans will not experience the story, calling the film idea “really cool” and confirming he is now free to discuss it publicly. Steven Soderbergh shared a similar sentiment, stating,
“I really enjoyed making the movie in my head. I’m just sorry the fans won’t get to see it,”
highlighting his disappointment at the project’s cancellation.
I always was interested in doing another ‘Star Wars,’
Adam Driver, Actor
I had been talking about doing another one since 2021. Kathleen (Kennedy) had reached out. I always said: With a great director and a great story, I’d be there in a second. I loved that character and loved playing him.
Adam Driver, Actor
one of the coolest (expletive) scripts I had ever been a part of.
Adam Driver, Actor
We presented the script to Lucasfilm. They loved the idea. They totally understood our angle and why we were doing it,
Adam Driver, Actor
We took it to Bob Iger and Alan Bergman and they said no. They didn’t see how Ben Solo was alive. And that was that.
Adam Driver, Actor
It was called ‘The Hunt for Ben Solo’ and it was really cool,
Adam Driver, Actor
But it is no more, so I can finally talk about it.
Adam Driver, Actor
I really enjoyed making the movie in my head. I’m just sorry the fans won’t get to see it,
Steven Soderbergh, Director
Implications of the Cancellation and Possible Future Directions
The termination of this project reflects Disney’s careful approach to expanding the Star Wars universe, especially regarding controversial character arcs. The rejection suggests concerns about how to handle Ben Solo’s legacy within the saga. While this particular film will not advance, the decision underscores ongoing challenges in balancing creative visions with corporate strategy. Fans of the franchise may continue to hope for new stories involving familiar characters under different terms in the future.
