In a thrilling announcement that has sent ripples through the galaxy of cinema, Lucasfilm has confirmed that acclaimed actor Ryan Gosling will take the lead role in the upcoming film Star Wars: Starfighter. This exciting project will be directed by Shawn Levy, known for his work on blockbuster hits such as Deadpool and Wolverine. The announcement was made during the annual Star Wars Celebration event held in Tokyo, where both Gosling and Levy participated via livestream, igniting enthusiasm among fans worldwide.
Starfighter: A fresh narrative in the Star Wars universe
Unlike previous installments that have focused on the iconic Skywalker saga, Starfighter is set to explore new characters and narratives within the expansive Star Wars universe. This standalone film will take place approximately five years after the events of Star Wars: Episode IX—The Rise of Skywalker, which was released in 2019. The screenplay is being crafted by Jonathan Tropper, known for his work on This Is Where I Leave You, promising a fresh and engaging storyline that will captivate both long-time fans and newcomers alike.
Gosling’s heartfelt connection to the Star Wars legacy
During the presentation, Gosling expressed his deep appreciation for the Star Wars franchise, stating, “Being here and seeing all of you makes it more inspiring to do it. There’s so much creativity and imagination in this room and there’s so much love.” His words resonate with the sentiment shared by many fans who have grown up with the series. Levy echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the profound relationship between the stories and their audience, highlighting their shared passion for the universe.
Production timeline and future projects
As anticipation builds for Starfighter, production is expected to commence this fall, with a theatrical release slated for May 28, 2027. This film will follow the release of The Mandalorian & Grogu, which is set to expand the beloved Disney+ series into theaters on May 22, 2026. Gosling’s involvement in the Star Wars cinematic universe comes on the heels of his recent Oscar nomination for Barbie, further solidifying his status as a leading figure in contemporary cinema.
While details about additional casting remain under wraps, the excitement surrounding Starfighter continues to grow. With Levy at the helm and Gosling in the lead, fans are eager to see how this new chapter in the Star Wars saga unfolds, promising a blend of adventure, creativity, and the timeless allure of a galaxy far, far away.