Star Wars gets new TV series set between Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, a LEGO one

The animated show will follow a family of scavengers across the 'Star Wars' universe.

Disney has announced a new Star Wars TV show premiering this summer, LEGO Star Wars: The Freemaker Adventures.

Based on LEGO's own line of Star Wars-themed merchandise and games, the show is described as a "fun-filled adventure comedy series", set to "introduce all-new heroes and villains in exciting adventures with many familiar Star Wars characters."

The full description reads as follows (via SlashFilm): "Told in the whimsically-charged style that audiences have come to expect from LEGO Star Wars entertainment, the series stars the Freemakers, a family of scavengers who build and sell starships from the scoured debris of space battles strewn throughout the galaxy."

"When their youngest discovers a natural connection with the Force through an ancient artifact – the Kyber Saber – his world is turned upside down, and he and his family are thrown into an epic struggle against the Empire to restore peace and freedom to the galaxy. Throughout their adventures, the Freemakers explore new worlds, meet new and familiar characters, and learn the true value of what it means to be a family."

Two of those familiar characters, Darth Vader and The Emperor, already appear on the poster art; though producer Bill Motz confirmed, "we are in continuity with canon, but are not canon."

It's an interesting way to expand the Star Wars universe, in many ways; though it utilises the franchise's in-built world, LEGO has always branded their own unique sensibilities on their products. So The Freemaker Adventures may feel familiar, but it's unlikely to feel like an exhaustive addition on top of the already popular Star Wars Rebels and Star Wars: The Clone Wars animated series.

Jill Wilbert, LEGO Group vice president of licensing and entertainment believes the show, "masterfully combines the rich heritage of storytelling, great characters, action and adventure in a galaxy far, far away with the creativity, imagination and humor that only LEGO Star Wars can deliver," and that she is "sure fans young and old are going to love the show."