Sigourney Weaver made a significant impact at the Star Wars Celebration 2025 during The Mandalorian & Grogu panel, and IGN had the privilege of discussing her new role, her initial unfamiliarity with the series, her affection for Grogu, and even a playful comparison between Grogu and a Xenomorph.
The Mandalorian & Grogu is slated for a theatrical release on May 22, 2026. We hope this interview will ease the anticipation and offer insights into one of the newest additions to the cherished Star Wars universe.
Sigourney Weaver at Star Wars Celebration 2025.
IGN: Sigourney, thank you so much for joining us! We were thrilled to see your character in The Mandalorian & Grogu panel, and it looks like she was wearing a Rebel pilot uniform? What can you tell us about your character at this point?
Sigourney Weaver: My character indeed dons a Rebel pilot uniform. She's part of the effort to safeguard the New Republic, operating in the Outer Rim where remnants of the Empire linger. She relies on allies like the Mandalorian and his faithful companion.
IGN: We heard that your love for Grogu was a significant factor in your decision to join this project. What was it like working with him?
Weaver: Grogu is incredibly mischievous, which won't surprise anyone. In every scene with him, multiple puppeteers worked to bring him to life, yet all I could see was Grogu. He truly feels real.
IGN: You've worked with various alien species, from Xenomorphs to Na'vi. How does working with Grogu compare?
Weaver: Grogu is undoubtedly the cutest. If Xenomorphs are on one end of the spectrum and Slimer on the other, Grogu is far beyond—embodying what the Japanese call Kawaii!
**IGN:** You mentioned at the panel that you hadn't seen The Mandalorian before working on this project. What was it like watching the series afterward?Weaver: I felt fortunate that Jon Favreau didn't insist I watch it first. I was excited to work with him on a Star Wars project. From the very first episode, I was captivated by its Western-inspired charm and the delightful surprises. It was a perfect reintroduction to the Star Wars universe, especially with characters like Din Djarin and Grogu, complemented by compelling antagonists like Werner Herzog.
IGN: In the footage we saw, you shared a scene with Grogu where he was using his Force powers to try and steal a dish of snacks. Can you tell us more about that?
Weaver: Yes, he was attempting to swipe my little bowl of snacks with his Force gestures. I had to be quite assertive to get them back!
IGN: Do you get to witness Grogu's Force powers in full effect in the movie?
Weaver: Grogu is always up to something. When I'm with him, I see him at his more relaxed moments at the base. However, you can see his transition from a learner to someone with genuine skills. He's truly an apprentice now, and the difference from the series is noticeable.
IGN: How did you come to be involved in this project, and what's your general experience with Star Wars, including your favorite movie from the series?
Weaver: I was drawn to this project and the character. As for Star Wars, I particularly enjoyed Rogue One, especially Felicity Jones's portrayal. It resonates with my generation's connection to The Rebellion. Revisiting the other films feels like a trip back to my childhood, highlighting how Star Wars continuously welcomes everyone back into its expansive universe.
IGN: Finally, who do you think is the most powerful being in the universe: Grogu or a Xenomorph?
Weaver: I believe a Xenomorph is more powerful. They're driven by an innate need to dominate and destroy, unlike Grogu, who, like Yoda, embodies wisdom and goodness.
IGN: And Grogu's cuteness doesn't make him threatening, right?
Weaver: Absolutely, though if he had stayed with Werner Herzog, who knows what path he might have taken?
