Sigourney Weaver on Grogu: 'He Stole My Heart' at Star Wars Celebration

Sigourney Weaver played a significant role in The Mandalorian & Grogu panel at Star Wars Celebration 2025, where IGN had the opportunity to delve into her new character, her initial unfamiliarity with The Mandalorian series, her affection for Grogu, and even a playful comparison between Grogu and a Xenomorph.

Set for a theatrical release on May 22, 2026, The Mandalorian & Grogu promises to be an exciting addition to the Star Wars saga. This interview aims to ease the anticipation and provide fans with a glimpse into the character Weaver brings to this beloved 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: My character is indeed a Rebel pilot, dedicated to safeguarding the New Republic. She's stationed in the Outer Rim, where remnants of the Empire still linger, so she relies on allies like the Mandalorian and his loyal companion.

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

Weaver: Grogu is incredibly mischievous, which is no surprise. On set, multiple puppeteers worked to bring him to life, but all I saw was Grogu himself. He's so convincing that it's hard not to believe he's real.

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

Weaver: Grogu is by far the cutest. If we place Xenomorphs on one end and Slimer on the other, Grogu is off the charts in cuteness. The Japanese would call him Kawaii!

IGN: You mentioned during the panel that you hadn't watched The Mandalorian before starting this project. What was it like catching up on the series?

Weaver: I feel fortunate because Jon Favreau didn't insist that I watch it immediately. I was excited to join a Star Wars project and work with Jon. From the first episode, I was drawn in by the concept—a classic Western with unexpected twists. It was charming and a fantastic way to re-enter the Star Wars universe, which can be confusing with its various projects. Din Djarin and Grogu are wonderful characters, and the villains, like Werner Herzog, added an exciting edge. I was always on edge, wondering what Herzog's character had planned for Grogu.

IGN: In the footage we saw this morning, you shared a scene with Grogu where he tried to use his Force powers to steal some food from you. Can you tell us more about that?

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

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

Weaver: Grogu is always up to something. When I'm with him at the home base, I see him in more relaxed moments. But you can tell he's transitioning from a learner to someone with real skills. He's truly an apprentice now, and it's exciting to witness his growth from the series.

IGN: How did you come to this project, and what has your experience been with Star Wars in general, from the very first movie to now?

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 other films felt like a trip back to my childhood. Star Wars has a way of welcoming everyone back and expanding in all directions, which is truly remarkable.

IGN: Last question. Who 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 and destroy, driven by their nature. Yoda, and by extension Grogu, are wise and on the side of good, not destruction.

IGN: And he's just too cute to be all that threatening, right?

Weaver: Absolutely. But if Grogu had stayed with Werner Herzog, who knows what he might have become?