Disney is starting to expand the Star Wars franchise. A new animated series called "Star Wars Rebels" made its debut on Disney channel, the first of many planned projects that Disney is working on to further expand the franchise.

The release of the "Star Wars Rebels" animated series is just the first step in Disney's big plan of expansion. Beginning in 2015, Lucasfilm studio will release new Star Wars movies at least once a year. The films will include Episodes VII, VII, IX and three spin-off films from the franchise.

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A Star Wars version of Disney Infinity, a video game, is also expected in the coming 2015. Disney is also planning to add new theme park attractions that are most likely Star Wars themed.

Disney Consumer Products is also releasing and rolling out Legos, action figures and new light sabers with "Rebels."  Two hundred fifty non-toy products are also being sold, including costumes, apparel, and even home décor. Twenty-four books are also part of their consumer products.

With all the plans and aggressive expansion of the Star Wars franchise, it's no surprise that Disney bought it to profit on it. The Star Wars franchise is ranked 3^rd with a $2.26 billion value in the U.S. total box office. That's close to the Harry Potter franchise which has a $2.39 billion value, and not too far off from Marvel Studios' $2.94 billion value.

Tagsstar wars franchise, Disney, lucasfilms, profit, Star Wars: Episode VII