Los Angeles (AFP)

A new women-centered "Star Wars" TV series is being designed for the Disney + streaming platform, several media reported on Wednesday.

According to Deadline Hollywood, the series would be an "action thriller, with elements of martial arts, which focuses on women and takes place in a chronology different from that of the usual universe of Star Wars".

Disney did not immediately respond to AFP requests.

The series, directed by Leslye Headland, co-creator of "Russian Doll" on Netflix, will be filmed in live action, says the Hollywood Reporter.

It is the latest attempt by Disney to expand its science fiction franchise on the small screen after the resounding success of "The Mandalorian".

Unveiled last fall to accompany the launch of Disney's video-on-demand platform, "The Mandalorian" has won over critics as well as Star Wars fans.

She presented a tiny character with green skin, pointed ears and large tender eyes, nicknamed "Baby Yoda" by all the spectators who had immediately adopted and declined in all tones on social networks. A third season is being prepared.

Two other series "Star Wars" in live action are also in the pipeline for Disney +: a prequel to "Rogue One" and one which includes the return of Ewan McGregor in the role of Obi-Wan Kenobi.

The initiatives to multiply female or minority characters in "Star Wars" have divided some fans.

The latest film trilogy featured women and people of color like Rey (Daisy Ridley) and Finn (John Boyega).

But Asian American actress Kelly Marie Tran, the first actress of color to play a leading role in the franchise, has been harassed on social networks for racist and sexist comments.

© 2020 AFP