Sigourney Weaver on Grogu: Stealing Hearts at Star Wars Celebration

If you’re a fan of The Mandalorian and Grogu, you’ll be delighted to hear that Sigourney Weaver made a memorable appearance at Star Wars Celebration 2025. IGN had the opportunity to sit down with her and discuss her new character, her initial reaction to joining the series, and her thoughts on Grogu's charm.

Weaver revealed that her character is a Rebel pilot working to protect the New Republic, stationed in the Outer Rim where remnants of the Empire persist. Her role was inspired by her attire, which resembles a classic Rebel pilot uniform. When asked about her connection to Grogu, she admitted that his playful nature immediately won her over. Working alongside multiple puppeteers, she admitted that despite the technical setup, Grogu felt undeniably real to her.

Comparing Grogu to her past experiences with aliens like Xenomorphs and Na’vi, Weaver described Grogu as the “cutest.” She humorously placed him on the “Kawaii” spectrum, far removed from the menacing presence of a Xenomorph.

When questioned about her viewing experience of The Mandalorian prior to joining, Weaver expressed her gratitude for not having watched the show beforehand. She described the series as a “great concept,” likening it to a Western with unexpected twists. She praised the characters, particularly Din Djarin and Grogu, and expressed her intrigue with the series' progression and its ability to reintroduce fans to the Star Wars universe.

In the upcoming film, viewers will witness Weaver’s character sharing a scene with Grogu, where he attempts to use his Force powers to claim a snack. While Grogu’s abilities are showcased, Weaver noted that he is evolving from a learner to a skilled apprentice. This evolution highlights the rich storytelling woven throughout the series and the films.

Reflecting on her journey with Star Wars, Weaver expressed her admiration for Rogue One, appreciating Felicity Jones’ character and the nostalgia tied to her own childhood memories of the franchise. Regarding the age-old debate of power, Weaver humorously sided with the Xenomorph over Grogu, attributing the latter’s cuteness and allegiance to the light side as reasons for his lesser destructive potential.

For those eager to dive deeper into this galaxy far, far away, The Mandalorian & Grogu hits theaters on May 22, 2026. Until then, enjoy the exclusive look at Sigourney Weaver’s character in the image below.

Sigourney Weaver at Star Wars Celebration 2025.