Daisy Ridley discusses Star Wars: New Jedi Order and the cancellation of The Hunt for Ben Solo.

      With the Star Wars franchise currently experiencing a lull in cinematic releases, at least until next summer’s The Mandalorian & Grogu, there have been recent discussions about potential projects yet to hit the screen. Daisy Ridley, a star from the Sequel Trilogy, recently discussed her film Star Wars: New Jedi Order, which focuses on Rey Skywalker, along with updates regarding the cancelled project The Hunt for Ben Solo.

      New Jedi Order was unveiled at the Star Wars Celebration London in 2023 by Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy. Since the announcement, the film has seen multiple changes in writers as the project has evolved. Presently, George Nolfi (The Banker) is handling the script, with Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy (Reggae Girlz) directing. The story is expected to take place 15 years after The Rise of Skywalker, depicting Rey, who takes on the Skywalker name in honor of her late mentors, as she works to rebuild the Jedi Order.

      In an interview with IGN, Ridley provided a brief update on New Jedi Order, asserting that despite delays and a lack of recent news, the project is still actively being developed. “Honestly, there are scripts that I read five years ago, and now I’ve gone, ‘Oh, maybe they will actually happen,'” she noted. “I think over the years, I’ve understood the significant challenges involved in getting any film made. The obstacles are extensive . . . But particularly with this project, I know that amazing voices and creative talents are involved, and I believe the wait will be rewarding.”

      Regarding The Hunt for Ben Solo, Adam Driver was set to return as Ben Solo after his redemption from being Kylo Ren and his subsequent sacrifice for Rey. Steven Soderbergh was slated to direct, and the film had received approval from Lucasfilm, but it was ultimately cancelled by Disney CEO Bob Iger. Since the announcement of the cancellation, there has been a surge of calls from fans to resurrect the project and see Driver reprise his iconic role.

      “I was aware of some details. I heard murmurs,” Ridley said about The Hunt for Ben Solo. “I have many friends on the crew, so information tends to circulate like that. But, wow! When the news broke, I was like, ‘Oh, my God!’ And it was him who revealed it, right? It was surprising to hear Adam mention it, and that has been the big shocker of the year.”

      On the fan enthusiasm for reviving the project, Ridley expressed, “I love seeing a wave of positivity. The way the internet has come together to try and make it happen is fantastic for all of us. It's great to unite over something in such a positive manner. Clearly, everyone recognizes he was a very popular character, but it's also heartening to think, ‘Wow, people genuinely care and want this.’ I just … I appreciate it. I enjoy when people unite — no pun intended — from all parts of the world, from all different backgrounds.”

      As we await more information on New Jedi Order, Pedro Pascal is set to return as Din Djarin in The Mandalorian & Grogu on May 22nd, 2026, followed by Shawn Levy’s Star Wars: Starfighter, featuring Ryan Gosling, on May 28th, 2027.

      Ricky Church – Follow me on Bluesky for more movie news and discussions.