Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord (2026) is an American animated sci-fi action series set in the Star Wars universe. The series is created by Dave Filoni and features voice performances from Sam Witwer, Wagner Moura, and Richard Ayoade.
Set about one year after the events of The Clone Wars, the story takes place during the rise of the Galactic Empire. It follows Maul, the former Sith apprentice, as he attempts to rebuild his criminal empire while staying hidden from Darth Sidious. Unlike traditional Star Wars stories, this series focuses on the galaxy’s criminal underworld rather than heroic Jedi.
The narrative unfolds on the planet Janix, where Maul searches for a new apprentice and encounters a surviving Jedi Padawan. The series blends crime storytelling with sci-fi action and presents a darker, more intense tone. It is scheduled to premiere on Disney+ on April 6, 2026.
Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord Age Rating
Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord is rated TV-PG for sci-fi violence, intense action, and darker thematic elements. This rating means some content may not be suitable for younger children without parental guidance. The show leans more mature than many animated Star Wars titles due to its focus on villains and crime-driven storytelling.
Violence & Peril
The series features frequent sci-fi violence, including lightsaber duels, blaster fights, and hand-to-hand combat. Characters are often placed in dangerous situations, with scenes involving injury and death, though without graphic detail. The presence of Imperial forces and Inquisitors adds tension, making several moments feel intense.
Language
Language remains mild throughout the series. There is no strong profanity, but occasional insults and fictional “space slang” are used. The dialogue stays within a PG-level standard.
Mature Themes
The show explores darker themes such as revenge, betrayal, trauma, and the corrupting influence of power. It also includes elements of crime, including syndicates, gambling environments, and manipulation. There is no sexual content or nudity, but the emotional tone can feel heavy for younger viewers.
Is Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord Suitable for Kids?
Ages 7 and Under: Not Suitable. The dark tone, frequent action, and villain-focused narrative may be overwhelming or confusing for young children.
Ages 8–12: Suitable With Parental Guidance. Children familiar with Star Wars may enjoy the series, but parents should be aware of its darker themes. Some scenes may require explanation, especially around moral choices and character motivations.
Ages 13 and Up: Suitable. Teens are likely to understand the story’s complexity and handle the intense action and themes without concern.
Overall, the series is best suited for viewers aged 10 and above, depending on maturity level.
What Parents Can Do
- Help your child understand the difference between revenge and justice, as the main character often operates in moral gray areas.
- Explain the background of Order 66 to provide context for the characters’ emotional struggles.
- Encourage discussion about good versus evil and how choices shape a person’s path.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating of Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord?
A: The series is rated TV-PG for sci-fi violence, action, and mature themes.
Q: Is Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord suitable for kids?
A: It is suitable for kids aged 8 and above with parental guidance, but younger children may find it too intense.
Q: How violent is Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord?
A: The show includes frequent action scenes, lightsaber fights, and moments of danger, though without graphic detail.
Q: Does the series include strong language?
A: No, language is mild and limited to occasional insults or fictional slang.
Q: Is there any sexual content in the show?
A: No, the series does not include sexual content or nudity.
Q: Where can you watch Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord?
A: The series will be available to stream on Disney+ starting April 6, 2026.