Sigourney Weaver on Grogu: Heart-Stealing Moments at Star Wars Celebration

Sigourney Weaver's participation in the Star Wars Celebration 2025 panel for *The Mandalorian & Grogu* was a highlight, and IGN had the privilege of delving deep into her experience with her new character in the Star Wars universe. In an exclusive interview, Weaver shared insights into her character, her affection for Grogu, her journey into the Star Wars saga, and even compared Grogu's powers to those of the Xenomorph from her iconic *Alien* franchise.

*The Mandalorian & Grogu* is slated for a theatrical release on May 22, 2026. This interview aims to tide fans over until then, offering a glimpse into the character that Weaver will bring to this beloved universe.

Sigourney Weaver at Star Wars Celebration 2025.

IGN: Sigourney, thank you for joining us! Your character at the panel seemed to be in a Rebel pilot uniform. Can you share more about her?

Sigourney Weaver: Absolutely. 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 pose a threat. Her role involves working closely with figures like the Mandalorian and his companion, Grogu.

IGN: You mentioned your love for Grogu was a big factor in accepting this role. What was it like working with him?

Weaver: Grogu is incredibly mischievous, which I'm sure comes as no surprise. Filming scenes with him involved multiple puppeteers, yet all I could see was Grogu himself. He's so convincingly real to me.

IGN: You've worked with various alien species throughout your career. How does Grogu compare to the likes of Xenomorphs or Na'vi?

Weaver: Grogu is undoubtedly the cutest. On a scale from Xenomorphs to Na'vi, he's off the charts in terms of adorability. In Japanese culture, he'd be described as 'Kawaii'—the epitome of cuteness.

Weaver: It was a delightful experience. Jon Favreau was very welcoming, and I didn't feel pressured to catch up. From the first episode, I was captivated by the Western-inspired narrative and its charming surprises. It was a perfect re-entry into the Star Wars world, especially with characters like Din Djarin and Grogu, alongside compelling villains like Werner Herzog.

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

Weaver: Yes, he was after my bowl of snacks. He made his little Force gestures, but I managed to keep them. It was a playful moment on set.

IGN: Will we see more of Grogu's Force powers in the movie?

Weaver: Absolutely. Grogu is always up to something. In scenes where I'm with him at the base, you can see him practicing and honing his skills. He's transitioning from a learner to a skilled apprentice, which is quite remarkable.

IGN: How did you come to this project, and what's your overall experience with the Star Wars saga?

Weaver: My journey with Star Wars goes back to the original films, but Rogue One stands out as my favorite. Felicity Jones's character resonated with me, and it reminded me of my generation's connection to the Rebellion. Revisiting these films is like revisiting my childhood, and it's amazing how Star Wars continues to evolve and invite new fans in.

IGN: Finally, who's more powerful: Grogu or a Xenomorph?

Weaver: I have to say, a Xenomorph. They're driven by an innate need to dominate and destroy. Grogu, on the other hand, follows the path of Yoda—wise and good-natured. He's just too cute to be a real threat, though I wonder what might have happened if he'd stayed with Werner Herzog.