Happy New Year! It’s January 1, 2026, and Star Wars fans are buzzing with anticipation as post-production wraps on The Mandalorian & Grogu. Directed by Jon Favreau, this highly awaited film arrives in theaters on May 22, 2026—the franchise’s first big-screen adventure since The Rise of Skywalker in 2019. Shot for IMAX with a delightful custom countdown featuring Grogu forging numbers in a Mandalorian smithy, it promises to deliver the duo’s story with unparalleled cinematic grandeur.
From Streaming Success to Theatrical Spectacle
The Mandalorian revolutionized Star Wars in 2019, introducing Pedro Pascal as Din Djarin and Grogu, the Force-sensitive foundling who became an instant icon. Three seasons of gritty bounty hunting, Mandalorian lore, and profound found-family themes built a massive following.
Announced in 2024 and with filming completed in December 2024, the project pivoted from a potential Season 4 to this standalone film. Favreau directs and co-writes with Dave Filoni, produced by Kathleen Kennedy. It continues directly in the post-Empire era, where the New Republic enlists Din Djarin and Grogu to combat remaining Imperial warlords.
Trailer Highlights: Action, Charm, and New Threats
The September 2025 teaser trailer garnered millions of views, with extended footage screening alongside Avatar: Fire and Ash. Key moments showcase a rebuilt Razor Crest, Grogu’s endearing interactions with Anzellan droidsmiths and a tiny telescope, explosive snowy battles with collapsing AT-AT walkers, and intense gladiatorial arenas featuring massive Dejarik-inspired creatures.
The footage blends high-octane action—like flamethrower duels—with heartfelt “clan of two” moments, emphasizing Grogu’s growing Force abilities and the original trilogy’s adventurous spirit.
Cast: Veterans and Exciting Additions
Pedro Pascal returns as Din Djarin, with Grogu brought to life through advanced puppetry and VFX.
Sigourney Weaver joins as Colonel Ward, a Rebellion veteran and New Republic officer leading the Adelphi Rangers—her authoritative role introduces strategic depth and potential friction with Din’s lone-wolf style. Jeremy Allen White voices Rotta the Hutt, Jabba’s son, adding underworld intrigue. Steve Blum reprises Garazeb “Zeb” Orrelios in live-action.
What 2026 Holds for Star Wars
As we start 2026, The Mandalorian & Grogu leads a promising year, including new LEGO sets tying into the film and updates to Disney Parks attractions. Standalone yet connected to the Mando-verse, it offers an accessible entry for all ages—especially younger fans enchanted by Grogu—while delivering fresh threats and emotional resonance.
With trailers fueling speculation and retro-pulp posters evoking classic adventure, the hype is building toward May 22. This clan of two is poised to reignite theatrical Star Wars magic.
This is the Way—into an epic 2026.