Disney has announced a new miniseries centered on Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, the company's first major character, set to premiere on Disney Plus in February 2027. The announcement was made by Jon Favreau during Friday's D23 showcase.
Oswald the Lucky Rabbit predates Mickey Mouse, having been created by Walt Disney. However, Disney lost the rights to Oswald and the character fell into obscurity. In 2006, Disney reacquired the rights from NBCUniversal in exchange for sportscaster Al Michaels joining NBC's sports division. This move allowed for Oswald's eventual reintroduction into Disney's media landscape.
Oswald played a significant role in the video game series 'Epic Mickey,' which featured forgotten Disney characters. He also appeared in the game's sequel and a 2024 remaster, but his appearances in other Disney Animation projects have been limited to cameos or brief mentions. This upcoming miniseries marks his return to a starring role.
The project, simply titled 'Oswald,' will be a three-part miniseries that combines live-action and animation. The story will follow Oswald as he escapes into the real world following an earthquake and befriends a group of middle school children who help him experience the modern world. Favreau is credited as writer, co-director, and producer. The cast includes Kathryn Hahn, Ryder Allen, Albert Brooks, Ravi Cabot-Conyers, Mykal-Michelle Harris, and Al Madrigal.
The 'Oswald' miniseries is slated for a February 17, 2027 release, coinciding with the nearly 100th anniversary of Oswald's debut in the 1927 animated short 'Trolley Troubles.' In other related news, 'Epic Mickey Rebrushed' is scheduled for release on iOS and Android on September 16 and on Nintendo Switch 2 on October 6.