What Happened to Taika Waititi?
Taika Waititi is a highly acclaimed New Zealand filmmaker, writer, actor, and comedian known for his distinctive comedic style and critically successful projects like "Jojo Rabbit" and "Thor: Ragnarok." He continues to be a prolific figure in Hollywood, actively involved in numerous film and television projects as a director, writer, producer, and actor, with several major releases and developments extending into late 2026.
Quick Answer
Taika Waititi remains a prominent and busy force in the entertainment industry as of late 2026. His upcoming film, "Klara and the Sun," is scheduled for release in October 2026, and he continues to develop a highly anticipated Star Wars movie. Additionally, Waititi recently ventured into the art world with his first photography exhibition, "Spotlight," which ran in Auckland in September 2026, and appeared as an actor in the film "Place to Be," which premiered at the Venice Film Festival in September 2026.
📊Key Facts
📅Complete Timeline15 events
Jojo Rabbit Released
Waititi's black comedy film 'Jojo Rabbit,' which he wrote, directed, and starred in, was released to critical acclaim, earning him an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.
Announced to Direct Star Wars Film
Lucasfilm officially announced that Taika Waititi would direct and co-write an upcoming Star Wars feature film.
To Direct 'The Incal' Adaptation
It was announced that Waititi would direct and co-write a feature film adaptation of Alejandro Jodorowsky and Moebius's iconic 1970s graphic novel, 'The Incal.'
Thor: Love and Thunder Released
Waititi's second Marvel Cinematic Universe film as director and co-writer, 'Thor: Love and Thunder,' was released.
Marries Rita Ora
Waititi secretly married British singer Rita Ora in an intimate ceremony.
Confirms No Involvement in Thor 5
Waititi stated in an interview that he would not be involved in directing 'Thor 5' due to his busy schedule with other projects.
Next Goal Wins Released
His sports comedy-drama film 'Next Goal Wins,' based on a true story, was released, with Waititi directing, writing, and producing.
Begins Filming 'Klara and the Sun'
Principal photography for 'Klara and the Sun,' directed by Waititi and starring Jenna Ortega, commenced in New Zealand.
Teases 'Fun' Star Wars Film at Sundance
At the 2026 Sundance Film Festival, Waititi provided an update on his Star Wars film, stating his intention to bring 'a little more of the fun from the original films.'
Directs Pepsi Super Bowl Commercial
Waititi directed a Pepsi commercial that aired during Super Bowl LX, also making an appearance as a bear's therapist.
Voices IG-11/IG-12 in LEGO Star Wars Special
Lucasfilm confirmed Waititi's return to voice IG-11/IG-12 in the upcoming LEGO Star Wars: The Mandalorian special on Disney+.
Actor in 'Place to Be' Premieres at Venice
The drama film 'Place to Be,' in which Waititi stars, had its world premiere out of competition at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival.
Executive Producer for 'A Bit of Light'
Waititi joined 'A Bit of Light' as an executive producer, with the Ali Asgari drama heading into its world premiere in competition at the Venice Film Festival.
Launches 'Spotlight' Photography Exhibition
Waititi's first photography exhibition, 'Spotlight,' a collaboration with electric vehicle brand Zeekr, opened to the public in Auckland, New Zealand.
Klara and the Sun Scheduled for Release
Waititi's highly anticipated dystopian science fiction film 'Klara and the Sun' is scheduled for release in the United States by Sony Pictures Releasing.
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🔍Deep Dive Analysis
Taika Waititi, born Taika David Cohen, has solidified his position as one of Hollywood's most unique and sought-after talents since his breakout success with films like 'Boy' and 'Hunt for the Wilderpeople.' His career trajectory saw a significant boost with his work on Marvel's 'Thor: Ragnarok' (2017) and the Oscar-winning 'Jojo Rabbit' (2019), for which he won an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.
In recent years, Waititi has maintained a packed schedule across various creative roles. In 2022, he directed and co-wrote 'Thor: Love and Thunder,' which received mixed reviews but was a financial success. This was followed by the sports comedy-drama 'Next Goal Wins' in 2023, which he also directed, wrote, and produced. Despite rumors, Waititi confirmed in November 2023 that he would not be involved in 'Thor 5,' citing his commitments to other projects.
A major focus for Waititi has been his involvement with Lucasfilm. Announced in 2020, his untitled Star Wars film remains in development. As of January 2026, he has submitted a script described as 'hilarious and great,' with Waititi expressing a desire to recapture the fun spirit of the original Star Wars trilogy. While its release date is still unconfirmed and its status has been described as 'on hold or status unknown' by May 2026, Lucasfilm confirmed in September 2026 that Waititi would return to voice IG-11/IG-12 in an upcoming LEGO Star Wars: The Mandalorian special.
Looking ahead, Waititi has several significant projects. His adaptation of Kazuo Ishiguro's novel, 'Klara and the Sun,' which he directed and co-wrote, is set to be released on October 23, 2026, starring Jenna Ortega and Amy Adams. He is also directing and co-writing a feature film adaptation of the classic graphic novel 'The Incal,' a project announced in November 2021 and listed for a 2025 release. In 2026, Waititi also expanded his artistic endeavors by launching 'Spotlight,' his first photography exhibition, in collaboration with electric vehicle brand Zeekr, which ran from September 17-20 in Auckland. He also appeared as an actor in the drama film 'Place to Be,' which premiered at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival on September 9, 2026.
Waititi's personal life also saw a significant development, as he married British singer Rita Ora in August 2022. He continues to be an executive producer on various television series, including 'Our Flag Means Death' and 'Reservation Dogs,' and has upcoming voice roles, such as Willy Wonka in the animated film 'Charlie vs. The Chocolate Factory' in 2027.
What If...?
Explore alternate histories. What if Taika Waititi made different choices?