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

Sigourney Weaver played a pivotal role in the excitement surrounding The Mandalorian & Grogu panel at Star Wars Celebration 2025. IGN had the opportunity to delve into her experience with her new character, her surprising unfamiliarity with the series before being cast, her heartwarming connection with Grogu, and her playful comparison between Grogu and a Xenomorph.

Set for a theatrical release on May 22, 2026, The Mandalorian & Grogu promises to be an eagerly awaited addition to the Star Wars saga. This interview aims to bridge the anticipation gap and offer fans deeper insights into one of the franchise's newest characters.

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. Can you tell us more about your character?

Sigourney Weaver: Absolutely. She indeed wears a Rebel pilot uniform and has a background in the Rebellion. Now, she's dedicated to safeguarding the New Republic, particularly out in the Outer Rim where remnants of the Empire still linger. Her mission aligns well with the Mandalorian and his loyal companion.

IGN: We understand that your affection for Grogu was a significant factor in your decision to join the project. What was it like working with him?

Weaver: Grogu is delightfully mischievous, which I'm sure won't surprise anyone. During filming, despite the presence of multiple puppeteers, all I could see was Grogu himself. He's incredibly lifelike and endearing.

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

Weaver: Grogu is undoubtedly the cutest of the bunch. While Xenomorphs and other creatures have their own appeal, Grogu's charm is unparalleled. He embodies what the Japanese call 'Kawaii'—utterly adorable.

Weaver: I was fortunate that Jon Favreau didn't insist I watch it beforehand. I was excited to work with him on a Star Wars project. From the first episode, I found the show's concept charming—a classic Western with a unique twist. It was a refreshing way to re-engage with the Star Wars universe, which has many interconnected stories. Din Djarin and Grogu are wonderful characters, and the villains, like Werner Herzog, added depth to the narrative. I was constantly worried about what might happen to Grogu.

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

Weaver: Yes, he was trying to snatch a little bowl of my snacks using his Force gestures. I had to be quite firm to get them back!

IGN: Do you witness Grogu's Force abilities in full force in this movie?

Weaver: Grogu is always up to something. When I'm around him, I see his playful side at the base. However, it's clear he's evolving from a learner to someone with genuine skills. He's now an apprentice, and it's fascinating to see his growth from the series.

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

Weaver: I'd say Rogue One. I loved Felicity Jones's character and felt a connection to the Rebellion. Revisiting the older films was like a nostalgic trip back to my childhood. Star Wars has a way of welcoming everyone back into its universe, expanding in all directions.

IGN: Finally, who do you think is more powerful: Grogu or a Xenomorph?

Weaver: As much as I adore Grogu, I believe a Xenomorph is more powerful. It's driven by an instinct to dominate and destroy, whereas Grogu, like Yoda, embodies wisdom and goodness. He's simply too cute to be truly threatening.

IGN: And if Grogu had stayed with Werner Herzog, do you think he might have turned out differently?

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