The highly anticipated Star Wars Celebration Japan kicked off with an electrifying panel that set the tone for the event. Fans gathered in Tokyo, Japan, to witness a nostalgic journey through the iconic franchise. The panel opened with memorable moments from Star Wars, including Princess Leia’s heartfelt hologram message to Obi-Wan Kenobi and the iconic voices of Rey and Master Luke Skywalker. This was just the beginning of an unforgettable experience for attendees.
One of the major highlights of the panel was the surprise reveal of Star Wars: Starfighter. Following this announcement, Dave Filoni, Kathleen Kennedy, and Jon Favreau took the stage to share exciting details about the much-anticipated film, The Mandalorian and Grogu, set to hit theaters on May 22, 2026. This new installment promises to bring back beloved characters, including Garazeb Zeb Orrelios, alongside a brand-new character portrayed by the legendary Sigourney Weaver.
Both Weaver and the Mandalorian himself, Pedro Pascal, received a warm welcome from the enthusiastic audience. Weaver revealed that she initially wasn't familiar with the Disney+ series when she was approached for her role, but it didn't take long for her to become an ardent fan. “When I watched The Mandalorian, I fell in love with all the characters, especially this guy,” she said, gesturing towards Pascal. “And of course, Grogu stole my heart.”
Attendees were treated to exclusive photos showcasing Weaver and Pascal in their stunning costumes, with Weaver donning the iconic orange jumpsuit of an X-wing pilot. An early glimpse of the film revealed a dynamic interaction between her character and the Mandalorian, highlighting the latter’s aversion to authority. The crowd erupted with cheers as Grogu joined them on stage, showcasing his growing Force powers in an exclusive clip where he confidently dismantles a menacing mouse droid.
Moreover, fans were thrilled to experience a kinetic action sequence where Din Djarin, the Mandalorian, breaks into an AT-AT, engaging in a fierce battle against a squad of snowtroopers. He utilized almost every tool and weapon at his disposal, including his renowned flamethrower. A candid set photo of Filoni beaming from the pilot’s seat of the AT-AT added a light-hearted moment to the presentation. “Look at Dave, look at what he does at work,” joked Favreau. “He gets paid for that, by the way.”
The panel radiated a sense of playfulness, a theme that has been integral to the creation of The Mandalorian. Favreau expressed, “We do try to bring a sense of fun. It’s the funnest job you’ll ever have.” The excitement in the room was palpable as Weaver expressed her gratitude to the Celebration crowd, stating, “What a thrill to see all of you here. It is so inspiring. It’s always good to be reminded why you’re doing it, and it’s for all of you.”
As the panel concluded, the anticipation for The Mandalorian and Grogu reached new heights. Set to exclusively hit theaters in 2026, this film promises to deliver the same thrilling adventure and beloved characters that fans have come to adore. With a dynamic cast and a commitment to storytelling, it’s a must-see for all Star Wars enthusiasts.
