Adam Driver has recently shared that Disney declined his proposed ‘Star Wars’ sequel. The actor revealed in an interview with the Associated Press that a sequel project centered on his character, titled The Hunt for Ben Solo, was in development with filmmaker Steven Soderbergh. After spending years crafting a script that Lucasfilm approved, Disney executives ultimately rejected the idea, leaving the sequel project defunct.
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The 41-year-old actor, known for his role as Kylo Ren a.k.a. Ben Solo in the Star Wars trilogy, expressed his enthusiasm for reprising his character given a compelling story and director. Driver mentioned, “I always was interested in doing another Star Wars… With a great director and a great story, I’d be there in a second. I loved that character and loved playing him.” His character’s journey seemingly concluded in 2019’s The Rise of Skywalker.
Collaborating with Soderbergh, screenwriter Scott Z. Burns, and Rebecca Blunt, Driver worked on a script for The Hunt for Ben Solo, which he described as one of the most exciting projects he had been a part of. Despite Lucasfilm’s support for the concept, Disney’s key decision-makers, including Bob Iger and Alan Bergman, vetoed the production, citing concerns about the character’s state in the narrative.
Reflecting on the rejected sequel, Driver mentioned, “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.” The shelved project, The Hunt for Ben Solo, which Driver deemed “really cool,” is now a tale of what could have been, allowing him to finally disclose details about the failed endeavour.
In response to the setback, Soderbergh expressed his regret that the audience would not witness the envisioned sequel on screen. Despite the sequel’s cancellation, Daisy Ridley, Driver’s co-star as Rey in the trilogy, is set to reprise her role in a subsequent installment announced in 2023. The Star Wars franchise continues to expand with upcoming projects like The Mandalorian, Star Wars: Starfighter, and untitled ventures helmed by various directors.
Driver commended Soderbergh, remarking on the director’s integrity and talent, cementing their professional relationship. Looking ahead, Driver is involved in multiple projects, including Father Mother Sister Brother, Misty Green, and Paper Tiger, showcasing his versatility as an actor beyond the Star Wars universe.
While The Hunt for Ben Solo may not come to fruition, the entertainment industry remains dynamic, with opportunities for actors like Driver to engage in diverse roles and collaborations. The world of Star Wars continues to captivate audiences with its evolving narrative and expanding universe, welcoming new stories and characters to the iconic saga.