Disney+ preps Star Wars kids’ gameshow

Star Wars CGI character Jar Jar Binks

Disney+ has revealed details of the first gameshow set in the Star Wars galaxy, which will launch in 2020, hosted by the actor who played Jar Jar Binks.

Star Wars: Jedi Temple Challenge will stream exclusively on the Mouse House’s direct-to-consumer platform and will be fronted by actor, dancer, martial arts expert, Stomp musician and Star Wars fan Ahmed Best.

The format “tests young contestants’ abilities in the core Jedi principles of strength, knowledge and bravery as they face thrilling and fun obstacles in an attempt to achieve the rank of Jedi Knight,” Disney said.

Best will be joined by a “humanoid droid companion,” voiced by Mary Holland (Veep, Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre).

“This is definitely a kids’ gameshow like no other. The various challenges will test a Padawan’s connection to the Force in three locations, a forest planet, on board a Jedi star cruiser and inside a Jedi Temple, immersing them and the audience in a fun, humorous and exciting competition,” said Mickey Capoferri, Lucasfilm’s senior director of online content and programming.

“Star Wars: Jedi Temple Challenge brings together the best of Star Wars – competitive spirit, harrowing obstacles and a hero’s triumph over challenges – in a totally new format for the franchise. A gameshow set in the Star Wars galaxy is a perfect fit for Disney+,” said Dan Silver, VP, originals, unscripted content at Disney+.

Star Wars: Jedi Temple Challenge is executive produced by Lucasfilm, Dean Houser and David Chamberlin and Mike Antinoro from Endeavor Content.

Best provided the voice and motion capture for the CGI alien Jar Jar Binks in the Star Wars prequels and has spoken in the past about how the vitriolic backlash to the character left him close to suicide.