Sigourney Weaver on Grogu: Heartwarming Theft at Star Wars Celebration

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

The Mandalorian & Grogu is slated for a theatrical release on May 22, 2026. This interview aims to bridge the gap until its release, providing fans with insights into one of the newest additions to the Star Wars universe.

Sigourney Weaver at Star Wars Celebration 2025.

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

Sigourney Weaver: Indeed, she's a pilot for the New Republic, stationed in the Outer Rim, working to quash remnants of the Empire. Her role involves protecting the New Republic, and she's glad to have allies like the Mandalorian and Grogu by her side.

IGN: Your love for Grogu was a significant factor in your decision to join the project. What was it like working with him?

Weaver: Grogu is incredibly mischievous, which is no surprise. Despite the presence of several puppeteers, I could only see Grogu himself. He felt very real to me.

IGN: You've worked with various alien species, from Xenomorphs to Na'vi. How does working with Grogu compare?

Weaver: Grogu is by far the cutest. Compared to the fearsome Xenomorphs or even the whimsical Slimer, Grogu embodies what the Japanese call 'Kawaii'—pure charm and cuteness.

Weaver: I was lucky that Jon Favreau didn't insist I watch it beforehand. I found the series to be a delightful Western with surprising elements, and it was a fantastic way to re-enter the Star Wars universe. The characters, especially Din Djarin and Grogu, alongside villains like Werner Herzog, were captivating.

IGN: In the footage we saw, you were in a scene with Grogu, where he was trying to use the Force to steal your snacks. Can you tell us more about that?

Weaver: Yes, he was attempting to swipe a bowl of snacks from me using his Force powers. It was a playful moment, and I had to assert myself to get them back.

IGN: Did you get to witness Grogu's Force powers in action during the movie?

Weaver: Absolutely. Grogu is always up to something, and I got to see him practicing his skills at our home base. It's evident that he's transitioning from a learner to a more skilled apprentice.

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

Weaver: Rogue One stands out for me. Felicity Jones's character resonated with me, and as someone from the generation of the Rebellion, it felt like a fitting entry point. Revisiting the older films was like a nostalgic trip back to my childhood.

IGN: Finally, in your opinion, who is more powerful: Grogu or a Xenomorph?

Weaver: I'd have to say a Xenomorph. They're inherently destructive and driven by instinct. Yoda and, by extension, Grogu are wise and aligned with the forces of good, which makes them less threatening, despite Grogu's undeniable cuteness.

IGN: And Grogu's cuteness plays a big part in that, doesn't it?

Weaver: Absolutely, though one wonders what he might have become under someone like Werner Herzog's influence.