The rumor has begun that the "Star Wars" license will shift from Dark Horse Comics to the Disney-owned Marvel Comics in 2013.

Disney purchasing LucasFilm and announcing a new "Star Wars" movie for 2015 is easily one of the most memorable events of 2012 in the entertainment sector. However, one major question for comics fans and "Star Wars" expanded universe buffs reigned supreme: What will happen to the "Star Wars" comics? Currently, Dark Horse Comics is the steward of the "Star Wars" license, and launches a new "Star Wars" ongoing series by writer Brian Wood in January. However, with Disney buying LucasFilm, it seemed logical that it might shift the license over to Marvel Comics, which it also owns, when the contracts were up. If current rumors are to be believed, that's exactly what will happen.

Blog Blue Sky Disney has begun the unconfirmed rumor that no new contracts will be issued to Dark Horse following the expiration of the current contracts. The report further states that all new projects after 2013 will be handled internally by Marvel.

When the Disney/LucasFilm acquisition was announced, Dark Horse President Mike Richardson commented on the situation, stating "Star Wars" would continue to have a home at the publisher for "the near future."

"Dark Horse and LucasFilm have a strong partnership which spans over 20 years, and has produced multiple characters and story lines which are now part of the Star Wars lore," Richardson said."'Star Wars' will be with us for the near future. Obviously, this deal changes the landscape, so we'll all have to see what it means for the future."

When contacted by CBR, Marvel declined comment. Representatives from Dark Horse had not responded to a request for comment by time of publication.