Summary
The Mandalorian & Groguis still more than a year away, but fans have gotten some more details about one new character joining the franchise, and its a role more important and connected to the protagonists than fans might have first expected.
In many ways,The Mandalorianwas the creative spark that kicked off the Disney+ era ofStar Wars,with the show being directly responsible for many of the live-action projects that followed, includingThe Book of Boba FettandStar Wars: Ahsoka.Thanks in no small part to its popularity, the show would be earmarked to make the jump to theaters withThe Mandalorian & Grogu.Co-created by franchise stalwarts Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni, this film was set to end the adventure of its titular heroes in grand style, bringing both old and new characters in for its as-of-yet unconfirmed plot. One of these new faces was revealed to be Sigourney Weaver,an iconic part of the Aliens franchise in the past, lending her talents toStar Warsfor the first time.
While thename of Weaver’sStar Warscharacter was previously revealedvia insider information, the star herself gave fans some more concrete details concerning her role as New Republic Colonel Bishop in the upcoming film. Speaking toGamesRadar+as part of a larger TotalFilm interview promoting Apple TV+’sThe Gorge,Weaver gave a brief but interesting look at her character. “I play a wonderful character who is, you know, in a position of authority,” Weaver confirms. “And I have to send the Mandalorian out on a mission on the Outer Rim where all the bad stuff happens.” Additionally, the star also confirmed the relatable reason why she agreed to take on the role in the first place. “I get to have scenes with a little Grogu, which is probably why I did the movie,” Weaver revealed. “And he’s a little badass too. It’s going to be wonderful for people to see what Grogu is up to now because he’s grown up a little bit and is capable of much more than maybe we think just watching the series.”
This synopsis seems to go against speculation that Weaver’s character would be an antagonist in the upcoming project, which is great for fans that didn’t want to have to root against her. The star also touched on why she didn’t spring for a role inStar Warssooner, despite ample experience in big franchises likeAlienand James Cameron’sAvatar,the latter of which saw hertake on a second role in the sequel filmThe Way of Water.“I admire [Star Wars], but I don’t sit around wishing I was in another franchise because I’ve been so lucky to be in some wonderful ones,” Weaver explained. “But at the time, when I was offered it, I was delighted. I’m a great fan of John Favreau. I was already a great fan of The Mandalorian.” Weaver’s enjoyment of the show and its characters is also great news for fans, as while her skill as a veteran actress was never in doubt, there’s a degree of flair that a real enjoyment of the franchise can bring to a performance that would be noticeably absent even in the most experienced performer.
While Weaver plays a small but impactful role in the upcoming film, fans need not entirely rule out seeing her again. It’s quite possible that the upcoming film won’t be the last time we see these characters, with somerumors suggesting thatThe Mandalorianseason 4 is still on the tableand the film’s success potentially inviting sequels on the big screen as well. For now, however, fans will have to wait and see how the film’s theatrical run plays out.
The Mandalorian & Groguis currently set for theatrical release on 12 June 2025.
