Steven Universe Episode Lars of the Stars Gains Popularity

What Happened

On June 11, 2025, during the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, Warner Bros. Animation and Cartoon Network Studios announced the development of a new series titled “Steven Universe: Lars of the Stars.” This series is a follow-up to the original “Steven Universe,” which aired from 2013 to 2020 and received critical acclaim, including a Peabody Award for its storytelling and representation. The new series will be available on Amazon Prime Video and is being produced by Rebecca Sugar, the original creator, alongside Ian Jones-Quartey, who also worked on the original series.

“Lars of the Stars” will focus on the character Lars Barriga, who was a fan-favorite in the original series. The narrative will explore Lars’s adventures as he leads a crew of off-color Gems in space, engaging in activities such as smuggling contraband and uncovering secrets related to the fallen Gem Empire. This announcement generated significant excitement among fans, marking a notable return to the franchise after a five-year hiatus.

Key Details

1. Title and Platform: The new series is titled “Steven Universe: Lars of the Stars” and will be available on Amazon Prime Video.

2. Creators: Rebecca Sugar returns as executive producer, along with Ian Jones-Quartey, who is also an executive producer and writer for the series.

3. Premise: The series will follow Lars Barriga, described as an “eternal teenager and space outlaw,” as he and his crew navigate challenges in space, including smuggling and evading authorities.

4. Cultural Impact: The original “Steven Universe” series was praised for its diverse representation and emotional depth, contributing to its status as a cultural phenomenon.

5. Related Announcements: Alongside the announcement of “Lars of the Stars,” it was revealed that “Teen Titans Go!” has been renewed for a tenth season, highlighting ongoing developments in animated programming at Cartoon Network.

Multiple Perspectives

The announcement of “Lars of the Stars” has elicited a variety of responses from fans and critics alike. Many fans express enthusiasm for the return of the franchise, particularly due to the beloved character of Lars and the creative team behind the original series. According to Variety, the new series promises to deepen the lore of the “Steven Universe” universe, which has been a significant aspect of its appeal.

Conversely, some critics and fans have raised questions about the direction of the new series, particularly regarding the absence of the original main character, Steven Universe, and his journey. There is a sense of curiosity about how the new narrative will connect with the established themes of the original series. Gizmodo noted that while the series is a follow-up, it diverges from the original storyline that focused on Steven and Connie, leading to discussions about the potential for character development and continuity.

Context & Background

“Steven Universe” originally aired from 2013 to 2020 and quickly became a landmark series in modern animation. It was notable for its inclusive representation of LGBTQ+ themes and diverse characters, which resonated with a wide audience. The series concluded with “Steven Universe Future,” an epilogue that addressed the characters’ growth and the aftermath of the events in the original series.

The announcement of “Lars of the Stars” comes at a time when streaming platforms are increasingly investing in animated content, seeking to capitalize on the popularity of established franchises. The decision to develop the new series for Amazon Prime Video reflects broader trends in the industry, where traditional networks are adapting to the changing landscape of media consumption.

What We Don’t Know Yet

While the announcement has generated excitement, several details remain unclear. Specific information about the supporting cast and whether any original characters from “Steven Universe” will appear in “Lars of the Stars” has not been disclosed. Additionally, the release date for the new series has not been confirmed, leaving fans eager for more information.

Furthermore, it is uncertain how the series will address the themes and character arcs established in the original show, particularly in relation to the character of Steven Universe. The potential for new storylines and character development will be closely monitored by fans and critics alike as more details emerge in the lead-up to the series’ release.

In summary, “Steven Universe: Lars of the Stars” represents a significant development in the continuation of a beloved franchise, with the potential to explore new narratives while building on the rich lore established by its predecessor.