At Star Wars Celebration 2025, Sigourney Weaver took the stage for The Mandalorian & Grogu panel, where she discussed her new role in the upcoming film. In an exclusive interview with IGN, Weaver shared insights into her character, her unexpected journey into the Star Wars universe, and her experiences with Grogu, the beloved character who captured her heart. She even weighed in on whether Grogu could stand up to a Xenomorph from her iconic Alien series.
Set to hit theaters on May 22, 2026, The Mandalorian & Grogu promises to be a thrilling addition to the Star Wars saga, and Weaver's insights offer a tantalizing preview of what's to come.
IGN: Sigourney, thank you for joining us! Your character in The Mandalorian & Grogu panel appeared to be wearing a Rebel pilot uniform. Can you tell us more about her?
Sigourney Weaver: She was indeed in a Rebel pilot uniform, and she's now part of the effort to protect the New Republic. Stationed in the Outer Rim, she's combating remnants of the Empire, and she relies on allies like the Mandalorian and his companion.
IGN: Your affection for Grogu was a key reason for taking this role. What was it like working with him?
Weaver: Grogu is incredibly mischievous, and it's delightful. Despite the presence of multiple puppeteers, he always felt real to me. He truly stole the show in every scene.
IGN: You've worked with various aliens in your career, from Xenomorphs to Na'vi. How does working with Grogu compare?
Weaver: Grogu is undoubtedly the cutest. While Xenomorphs and other creatures are intense, Grogu's charm is unparalleled. The Japanese would call him 'Kawaii'!
IGN: You mentioned at the panel that you hadn't watched The Mandalorian before joining the project. What was your experience like watching it?
Weaver: I felt fortunate that Jon Favreau didn't pressure me to watch it beforehand. Diving into the series, I found it charming—a blend of old Westerns with Star Wars surprises. It was a perfect reintroduction to the Star Wars universe, and I enjoyed the journey of Din Djarin and Grogu, alongside villains like Werner Herzog.
IGN: In the footage we saw today, Grogu was using his Force powers to try and steal a snack from you. Can you tell us more about that scene?
Weaver: Yes, he was after my little bowl of snacks, using his Force gestures. It was quite the playful challenge to get them back!
IGN: Do you get to see Grogu's Force powers in action throughout the movie?
Weaver: Absolutely. Grogu is always up to something, and I witnessed his transition from a learner to a skilled apprentice. It's clear he's growing and becoming more powerful.
IGN: Reflecting on your experience with Star Wars, from the original movies to now, do you have a favorite?
Weaver: Rogue One stands out for me. Felicity Jones's portrayal resonated with me, and as someone who identifies with the Rebellion, it felt like a fitting choice. Revisiting the series was like revisiting my childhood, and it shows how Star Wars continues to evolve and invite everyone back.
IGN: Lastly, in the battle of the universe's most powerful beings, who wins: Grogu or a Xenomorph?
Weaver: I have to go with the Xenomorph. They're driven by an instinct to destroy and dominate. Grogu, on the other hand, is wise and on the side of good—like Yoda. Plus, he's just too cute to be truly threatening!
IGN: And if Grogu had stayed with Werner Herzog?
Weaver: Who knows what he might have become? But thankfully, that's not the path he's on.
