Val Kilmer’s rise to stardom was supported by Ron Howard’s supernatural classic Willow, a big hit in the 1980s. However, Disney’s upcoming TV show based on the movie seems likely to reuse his character’s story with a major change in plot. During his successful career that followed, Kilmer was established as a credible actor due to the fairytale character Madmartigan. Fans would expect to see Kilmer participating in a follow-up, given his reputation and association with the original film. However, his character’s story will be told differently in the upcoming Willow TV series.

Jon Kasdan, the showrunner, discussed the original plan to bring back Kilmer’s swaggering swordsman in an interview with Entertainment Weekly:

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“We really wanted Val to come be in the show, and Val really wanted to come out and be in the show. I remember going to see Val right after this thing started to get some momentum, and I said, ‘Listen, we’re doing this. And the whole world wants Madmartigan back.’ And he was like, ‘Not as much as I do.’”

Willow Series Showrunner Hopes for More Seasons and a New Movie

Willow’s 2022 Follow-Up Series

     Disney+

Originally, Kasdan planned for Madmartigan’s return when he wrote Willow’s first season. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and Kilmer’s recovery from throat cancer, the possibility became unfeasible.

The first indications that Kilmer had health issues began to surface in 2015 when it was reported that he had a possible tumor. As a result of his throat cancer diagnosis, he began treatment in 2017. Kilmer remained optimistic and wanted to continue acting even after extensive surgery damaged his trachea. With Top Gun: Maverick, he returned to the role of Iceman as a symbol of his commitment to his career and character.

There’s no doubt the Disney+ series will be entertaining, even if audiences won’t see their favorite duo together. Following the development of COVID protocols, Kasdan hopes he can join the show for a second season. The premiere of Willow will take place on Disney+ on November 30.

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