The primary audience of Star Wars has always been younger generations, although the franchise is, of course, ubiquitous among all ages. From the original trilogy to the slightly darker tones of Andor, the franchise has always reigned in acts of violence and hidden sex scenes. However, with the immense popularity of R-Rated shows in this era of streaming — like House of the Dragon, The Boys, and such — are we nearing the time for Star Wars to foray into R-Rated territory?
As the Chief Creative Officer of Lucasfilm, Dave Filoni has overseen all of the TV projects in the galaxy far, far away, from The Mandalorian to Ahsoka. His projects have breathed new life into the Star Wars universe, which endured backlash after the sequel trilogy. He has a bigger say than anyone in what Star Wars shows get made. And when asked about the potential of making an R-rated project, Filoni wasn't against the idea.
“Sure, I mean, I don’t know. It think it’s interesting,” Filoni said on the Happy Sad Confused podcast. “The bottom line is whatever we do it has to be really well done."
"[Star Wars] encompasses all types of styles, and the creative of the particular story driving it is the most important thing, and they should do something that’s within their comfort zone. Otherwise, we’re to imagine that everyone’s going to come in and pretend they’re George Lucas."
Even if an R-rated project were to be commissioned, whatever it is must abide by the core principles and ethos of Star Wars. "But there are principles about choices and being a good person and being more selfless and getting over your fears that are timeless no matter what style you’re talking about,” Filoni said.
Disney's other huge property, the Marvel Cinematic Universe, will release its first R-rated movie, Deadpool & Wolverine, in July. Clearly, the shift into more mature territory is being allowed by the House of Mouse. It seems only a matter of time until R ratings spill into the galaxy far, far away.
To stay up to date on everything fantasy, science fiction, and WiC, follow our all-encompassing Facebook page and Twitter account, sign up for our exclusive newsletter and check out our YouTube channel.