Fans of the iconic "Star Wars" franchise gathered in droves at the "Star Wars Celebration Japan 2025," which kicked off on April 18, 2025, at Makuhari Messe in Chiba. This event, marking the first time Japan has hosted the celebration in 17 years, became a platform for exciting announcements about the future of the beloved series.
Among the highlights was the official announcement of the upcoming film titled "Star Wars Starfighter," set to be released in the United States on May 28, 2027. Director Shawn Levy, known for his work on "Deadpool & Wolverine," took the stage to share details about the project, much to the excitement of the audience.
Levy confirmed that Ryan Gosling, the acclaimed actor recognized for roles in "La La Land" and "Barbie," will star in the lead role of the film. In a surprise twist, Gosling himself appeared on stage, eliciting a roaring cheer from the crowd. This marks a significant moment in the franchise's history, as it is the first time a star of Gosling's caliber will headline a "Star Wars" film.
"You’ve probably heard a lot of rumors, some true and some false," Levy said during the presentation. "One of those rumors is that Ryan Gosling is starring in this film, and that rumor is 100% true!" The audience erupted in applause, and Gosling took a moment to express his enthusiasm for the project.
"I’ve read the script, and it’s a fantastic story filled with heart and adventure, featuring engaging and unique characters," Gosling shared. He also emphasized the importance of having Levy as the director, stating, "There’s no one better suited to tell this story than Shawn."
The film is being developed as a standalone story, distinct from the Skywalker saga, which has been a hallmark of the franchise since its inception. Levy explained that the narrative will take place several years after "Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker," providing a fresh perspective and new adventures for fans.
Preparations for "Star Wars Starfighter" have been underway since 2022, with screenwriter Jonathan Tropper collaborating with Levy to craft the script over the span of more than a year. Levy revealed that filming is set to commence in the fall of 2025, which has fans eagerly anticipating what’s to come.
During the event, Gosling's childhood connection to "Star Wars" was highlighted with a nostalgic touch. A photo of his childhood "Star Wars" bedsheets, sent by his mother, was displayed on the big screen, prompting a smile from the actor. "I literally dreamed of 'Star Wars' since I was a kid," he remarked, making it clear how meaningful this project is for him.
Notable figures in the "Star Wars" universe also graced the event, including Kathleen Kennedy, President of Lucasfilm, and Dave Filoni, Lucasfilm's Chief Creative Officer. Their presence underscored the significance of the film and the excitement surrounding its production.
The "Star Wars Celebration Japan 2025" is a three-day event running from April 18 to April 20, 2025, featuring panels, merchandise, and fan interactions. Beyond the film announcements, the celebration includes appearances from other franchise stars, such as Hayden Christensen, who famously portrayed Anakin Skywalker, and Diego Luna, known for his role as Cassian Andor in "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story."
As the event unfolds, attendees are treated to a rich tapestry of "Star Wars" history, alongside the promise of new adventures that will expand the universe beloved by millions. With the announcement of "Star Wars Starfighter," fans can expect a thrilling new chapter that embraces the spirit of adventure and exploration that has defined the franchise for decades.
As the excitement builds for the film's release in 2027, the anticipation for what lies ahead in the "Star Wars" universe continues to grow. The combination of a high-profile cast, a dedicated director, and a fresh storyline offers a tantalizing glimpse into the future of this legendary saga.
