'The Mandalorian & Grogu': Sigourney Weaver eyes 'Star Wars' universe
Sci-fi legend Sigourney Weaver is reportedly in negotiations to join the cast of The Mandalorian & Grogu. If successful, this would be a new venture for Weaver, who has previously battled extraterrestrials (Alien) and faced off with colonizers on verdant planets (Avatar). However, she has not yet faced stormtroopers and galactic bounty hunters. The film—helmed by Jon Favreau (The Mandalorian)—is set to hit theaters on May 22, 2026.
'The Mandalorian & Grogu' to begin filming later this year
Favreau is set to direct the upcoming Star Wars film, marking the first production in this universe since Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker in 2019. The production team will include Lucasfilm head Kathleen Kennedy and Lucasfilm chief creative officer Dave Filoni alongside Favreau. The Mandalorian & Grogu is expected to start filming later this year. This film follows the success of The Mandalorian, which debuted as Disney+'s flagship show in November 2019 and quickly became a cultural sensation.
Pedro Pascal's involvement in 'The Mandalorian & Grogu' uncertain
Pedro Pascal—who stars as Din Djarin aka The Mandalorian—is expected to reprise his role in the upcoming film. However, the extent of his involvement remains uncertain due to his busy schedule. Among other commitments, Pascal is slated to start filming The Fantastic Four for Disney division Marvel Studios at the end of July. The third season of The Mandalorian premiered last year and has since spawned several spinoffs such as The Book of Boba Fett and Ahsoka.
Meanwhile, quick look at Weaver's iconic roles in sci-fi films
Weaver—a three-time Academy Award nominee—is best known for her role in the Alien franchise. She first appeared as Ripley—the maternal monster fighter—in Ridley Scott's 1979 sci-fi horror classic and reprised her role in two subsequent films. Weaver also collaborated with James Cameron on Avatar and its sequel Avatar: The Way of Water. Beyond sci-fi roles, she has made significant contributions to pop culture through her appearances in the Ghostbusters movies during the 1980s and its 2021 reboot Ghostbusters: Afterlife.
