The Mandalorian & Grogu's Sigourney Weaver on Grogu Stealing Her Heart and More - Star Wars Celebration

Sigourney Weaver's presence at the Star Wars Celebration 2025 for The Mandalorian & Grogu panel was a highlight, and IGN had the privilege of discussing her new role, her initial unfamiliarity with the series, her affection for Grogu, and her thoughts on comparing him to a Xenomorph.

The Mandalorian & Grogu is scheduled for a theatrical release on May 22, 2026. This interview aims to ease the anticipation and offer insights into one of the latest additions to the 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: She was indeed wearing a Rebel pilot uniform. She's now part of the effort to protect the New Republic, stationed out in the Outer Rim where remnants of the Empire still linger. That's where she crosses paths with the Mandalorian and his loyal companion.

IGN: We heard that your love for Grogu was a significant factor in your decision to join the project. What was it like working with him?

Weaver: Grogu is incredibly mischievous, as you might expect. Despite the presence of multiple puppeteers, all I could see was Grogu himself. He's incredibly real to me.

IGN: You've worked with various alien species throughout your career, from Xenomorphs to Na'vi. How does working with Grogu compare?

Weaver: Grogu is undoubtedly the cutest. Compared to the menacing Xenomorphs or even the whimsical Slimer, Grogu is in a league of his own. The Japanese would call him 'Kawaii'!

Weaver: I felt fortunate that Jon Favreau didn't pressure me to watch it beforehand. I was excited to work with Jon on a Star Wars project. From the first episode, I found the concept charming—a classic Western with unexpected twists. It was a delightful way to re-enter the Star Wars universe, which can be confusing with its many projects. The story of Din Djarin and Grogu, along with compelling villains like Werner Herzog, kept me engaged throughout.

IGN: In the footage we saw today, you shared a scene with Grogu where he used his Force powers to try and steal something. Can you tell us more about that?

Weaver: Yes, he was after my little bowl of snacks. He used his Force gestures, but I managed to get them back. I had to be quite firm with him.

IGN: Do you get to witness Grogu's Force powers in action throughout the movie?

Weaver: Whenever I'm around him, I see him experimenting with his powers, especially when he's relaxed at our base. It's clear he's transitioning from a learner to someone with real skills, truly becoming an apprentice. It's fascinating to see his growth from the series.

IGN: How did you come to be part of this project, and what has been your experience with Star Wars over the years?

Weaver: My favorite Star Wars movie is Rogue One. I loved Felicity Jones's character, and it resonated with me as someone from the Rebellion generation. Revisiting the series felt like a trip back to my childhood, and it's amazing how Star Wars continues to evolve and welcome new fans.

IGN: Finally, who do you think is more powerful—Grogu or a Xenomorph?

Weaver: I have to say a Xenomorph. They're driven by an uncontrollable need to dominate and destroy. Yoda, and by extension Grogu, embody wisdom and goodness, which isn't about destruction. Plus, Grogu is simply too adorable to be truly threatening—unless he had been influenced by someone like Werner Herzog.