Sigourney Weaver on Grogu's Charm at 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 even a playful comparison between Grogu and a Xenomorph.

Set to hit theaters on May 22, 2026, The Mandalorian & Grogu promises to be a thrilling addition to the Star Wars saga. This interview aims to tide fans over until then and shed light on Weaver's intriguing new character.

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 sports a Rebel pilot uniform, reflecting her origins. She continues her piloting duties while working to safeguard the New Republic, particularly in the Outer Rim where remnants of the Empire persist. Her mission often requires the assistance of the Mandalorian and his loyal companion.

IGN: We heard that your love of 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 I'm sure comes as no surprise. In scenes with him, multiple puppeteers worked in unison to bring him to life, yet all I could see was Grogu himself. He's incredibly convincing; I still believe he's real.

IGN: You've had experience with various aliens in your career, from Xenomorphs to Na'vi. How does working with Grogu compare?

Weaver: Grogu is undoubtedly the cutest of them all. While Xenomorphs and other creatures might be intimidating, Grogu falls into the realm of pure adorability—what the Japanese would call 'Kawaii!'

Weaver: I was fortunate that Jon Favreau didn't pressure me to watch it beforehand. I was excited to work with Jon on a Star Wars project, and from the very first episode, I was captivated. It felt like a classic Western with unexpected twists, and I found it charming—a perfect re-entry into the Star Wars universe, which can sometimes be overwhelming with its many projects. Watching Din Djarin and Grogu's journey, alongside formidable antagonists like Werner Herzog, was a delight. I couldn't help but worry about what Herzog's character had planned for Grogu!

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

Weaver: Yes, he was after my little bowl of snacks, using those adorable Force gestures. I had to be quite firm to get them back!

IGN: Do you get to witness Grogu using his Force powers extensively in the movie?

Weaver: Whenever I'm with him, I get to see his playful side at our base. However, it's clear that Grogu is transitioning from a learner to a skilled apprentice. There's a noticeable evolution from what we saw in the series.

IGN: Reflecting on your journey with Star Wars, from the original films to now, do you have a favorite movie in the series?

Weaver: Rogue One stands out for me. I loved Felicity Jones's character and felt a connection to the Rebel cause. Revisiting the older films was like a trip back to my childhood, and it's amazing how Star Wars continues to evolve, offering something for everyone.

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

Weaver: As much as I adore Grogu, I'd have to say a Xenomorph. They're driven by an instinctual need to dominate and destroy, whereas Grogu, like Yoda, embodies wisdom and goodness. Plus, Grogu's just too cute to be truly threatening!

IGN: And what if Grogu had stayed with Werner Herzog?

Weaver: That's a scary thought! Who knows what he might have become under Herzog's influence?