Sigourney Weaver took the stage at Star Wars Celebration 2025 for The Mandalorian & Grogu panel, and IGN had the exclusive chance to dive deep into her experience with the new film. She shared insights about her character, her initial unfamiliarity with the series, her affection for Grogu, and even compared the little green Jedi to her iconic Xenomorph adversary.
The Mandalorian & Grogu is slated to hit theaters on May 22, 2026, and this interview aims to bridge the anticipation gap, offering fans a glimpse into the latest addition to the Star Wars saga.
IGN: Sigourney, thank you for joining us! Your character appeared in a Rebel pilot uniform at the panel. Can you share more about her?
Sigourney Weaver: Absolutely! She's indeed a pilot, now serving to protect the New Republic out in the Outer Rim, where remnants of the Empire still linger. She's someone who relies on heroes like the Mandalorian and his companion.
IGN: We've heard your love for Grogu was a significant factor in joining the project. What was it like working with him?
Weaver: Grogu is incredibly mischievous, and his charm is undeniable. Despite the multiple puppeteers working with him, all I saw was Grogu himself. He truly feels real to me.
IGN: You've encountered various aliens throughout your career, from Xenomorphs to Na'vi. How does working with Grogu compare?
Weaver: Grogu is by far the cutest. While Xenomorphs and other aliens have their unique appeal, Grogu's charm is unparalleled. The Japanese have a term for it—Kawaii!
IGN: You mentioned during the panel that you hadn't watched The Mandalorian before being cast. What was your experience like catching up on the series?
Weaver: I was thrilled to join Jon Favreau on this Star Wars project without any prior pressure to watch the series. From the very first episode, I was captivated by its Western-inspired narrative and delightful surprises. It was a charming reintroduction to the Star Wars universe, especially with characters like Din Djarin and Grogu, and even the compelling antagonists like Werner Herzog.
IGN: In the footage we saw today, you were in a scene with Grogu, who was trying to steal a dish of food from you. Can you tell us more about that moment?
Weaver: Yes, he was after my snacks, using his little Force gestures. I had to be quite assertive to get them back!
IGN: Do you witness Grogu's Force powers in full swing in the movie?
Weaver: Grogu is always up to something. When I'm with him at the home base, you get to see him in more relaxed moments. But there's a clear progression in his abilities, transitioning from a learner to a more skilled apprentice. It's quite a journey to witness.
IGN: Reflecting on your journey with Star Wars, from the first film to now, do you have a favorite movie from the series?
Weaver: I'm particularly fond of Rogue One. Felicity Jones's character resonated with me, and it reminds me of my generation's connection to the Rebellion. Revisiting the other films felt like a nostalgic trip back to my childhood.
IGN: Finally, who do you think is the most powerful being in the universe—Grogu or a Xenomorph?
Weaver: As much as I love Grogu, I have to say a Xenomorph. Their nature is to take over, destroy, and advance their species. Yoda, and by extension Grogu, are inherently wise and good-hearted, not destructive.
IGN: And Grogu's cuteness certainly doesn't make him threatening, does it?
Weaver: Indeed, though if he had stayed with Werner Herzog, who knows what path he might have taken?
