Star Wars fans were treated to an exhilarating kickoff of the Star Wars Celebration 2025 in Japan, where major announcements about upcoming films and series electrified the atmosphere. The event, held on April 17, 2025, in Tokyo, was highlighted by the confirmation of Ryan Gosling as the lead in the new film, Star Wars: Starfighter, and the unveiling of details regarding The Mandalorian and Grogu. The excitement was palpable as attendees celebrated not only the announcements but also the 20th anniversary of Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith with a special birthday tribute to Hayden Christensen, who portrayed Anakin Skywalker.
The first day of the celebration was nothing short of spectacular, featuring a cake and a chorus of thousands singing "Happy Birthday" to Christensen. This moment marked a significant occasion, intertwining nostalgia with the thrill of new adventures in the galaxy far, far away. The event was a celebration of the enduring legacy of the franchise, as fans gathered to honor its history while eagerly anticipating its future.
Among the standout moments was Pedro Pascal's return as the titular character in The Mandalorian, alongside the beloved Grogu. The duo shared a touching reunion on stage, bringing cheers from the crowd. Joining them was actress Sigourney Weaver, who will star in The Mandalorian and Grogu, set to hit theaters on May 22, 2026. This collaboration marks a significant expansion of the franchise, as it continues to explore new narratives and characters.
As the event progressed, Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy and chief creative officer Dave Filoni officially unveiled plans for Star Wars: Starfighter. The film, which is set to begin production in the fall of 2025, will be directed by Shawn Levy, known for his work on Deadpool and Wolverine. Gosling, who appeared at the event wearing a cap that read, "Never tell me the odds," expressed his excitement to the audience. “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. It’s such a great reminder of how much movies can mean to us, specifically how much these movies mean to us,” he said, capturing the essence of the fandom that fuels the franchise.
Set five years after the events of Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker, Starfighter promises to introduce new characters to the galaxy while continuing to expand on the rich lore established throughout the series. Jonathan Tropper, known for his work on the Apple TV+ series Your Friends & Neighbors, has penned the screenplay for this highly anticipated installment. The film is scheduled for release on May 28, 2027, making it the first new Star Wars feature film since the conclusion of the Skywalker saga in December 2019.
As fans eagerly await the release of Starfighter, they can look forward to The Mandalorian and Grogu, which will serve as a bridge between the current and future narratives within the franchise. The excitement surrounding these projects reflects a broader trend in the entertainment industry, where established franchises continue to evolve and adapt to the changing tastes of audiences.
In addition to the film announcements, the event also highlighted the franchise's expansion into other media. The introduction of Star Wars to the classic board game Monopoly and the upcoming video game Star Wars Outlaws: A Pirate’s Fortune were also announced, showcasing the franchise's versatility and appeal across different platforms.
The Star Wars Celebration 2025 in Japan not only celebrated the past but also set the stage for the future of the franchise. With the return of beloved characters and the introduction of new stories, fans have much to look forward to in the coming years. The blending of nostalgia with innovation is a hallmark of the Star Wars brand, ensuring its continued relevance in popular culture.
As the celebration continues, fans can expect further surprises and announcements that will undoubtedly keep the excitement alive. The love for Star Wars transcends generations, and events like this serve as a testament to the franchise's enduring legacy. With each new project, the galaxy far, far away continues to expand, inviting fans to join in on the adventure.
