Sigourney Weaver on Grogu's Charm at Star Wars Celebration

Sigourney Weaver played a significant role in the The Mandalorian & Grogu panel at Star Wars Celebration 2025, and IGN had the privilege of discussing her new character, her initial unfamiliarity with The Mandalorian series, her affection for Grogu, and even her thoughts on whether Grogu might be more powerful than a Xenomorph.

Set for a theatrical release on May 22, 2026, The Mandalorian & Grogu promises to be a thrilling addition to the Star Wars universe. This interview aims to ease the anticipation and provide insights into one of the new characters joining this cherished galaxy.

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 is indeed a Rebel pilot, actively contributing to the protection of the New Republic. She operates in the Outer Rim, where remnants of the Empire still linger, hence the need for allies like the Mandalorian and his loyal companion.

IGN: We heard that your love for Grogu was a key factor in your decision to take on this role. What was it like working with him?

Weaver: Grogu is incredibly mischievous, which I'm sure won't surprise anyone. Despite the presence of multiple puppeteers, all I could see was Grogu himself. He felt so real to me.

IGN: You’ve worked with a variety of aliens in your career, from Xenomorphs to Na'vi. How does working with Grogu compare?

Weaver: Grogu is by far the cutest. While Xenomorphs and other creatures are at one end of the spectrum, Grogu's charm is off the charts. The Japanese call it Kawaii!

IGN: You mentioned in the panel that you hadn't seen The Mandalorian before starting this project. What was it like finally watching the series?

Weaver: I felt incredibly fortunate that Jon Favreau didn't pressure me to watch it beforehand. I was simply excited to work with him on a Star Wars project. From the very first episode, I found the concept charming—a classic Western with a few surprises. It was a great way for me to re-enter the Star Wars universe, which has so many different projects that it can get confusing. The Mandalorian provided a fantastic standalone story with compelling characters like Din Djarin and Grogu, alongside formidable villains like Werner Herzog. I was always on edge, wondering what Herzog's character would do to Grogu.

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

Weaver: Yes, he was trying to steal a little bowl of snacks that were mine. His little Force gestures were adorable, and I was lucky to get them back. I had to be quite firm with him.

IGN: Do you get to see Grogu use his Force powers extensively in this movie?

Weaver: Grogu is always up to something. When I'm with him, I get to see him more relaxed at our base. It's clear he's transitioning from a learner to someone with real skills, becoming a true apprentice. It's fascinating to witness this growth from the series to the movie.

IGN: Can you share how you came to be part of this project and your overall experience with Star Wars, starting from the original movies?

Weaver: I was drawn to this project through my love for Grogu and the chance to work with Jon Favreau. As for Star Wars, my favorite movie is Rogue One. I really connected with Felicity Jones's character, and it made me feel part of the Rebellion. Revisiting the other films was like a trip back to my childhood. Star Wars has a way of welcoming everyone back and expanding in all directions. It's truly remarkable.

IGN: Finally, who do you think is the most powerful being in the universe: Grogu or a Xenomorph?

Weaver: I'm afraid it's a Xenomorph. They can't help but take over, destroy, and promote their kind. Yoda, and by extension Grogu, are too wise and good-hearted to be destructive in that way. Grogu is on the side of good.

IGN: And Grogu's cuteness doesn't make him threatening, right?

Weaver: Exactly. Though, if he had stayed with Werner Herzog, who knows what he might have become?