Star Wars Celebration Japan 2025 has officially kicked off, bringing together fans from around the globe to celebrate the beloved franchise. Running from April 18 to April 20 at the Makuhari Messe, this year's event promises to unveil exciting new projects, panels, and merchandise, while also reflecting on the rich history of Star Wars.
Day one of the celebration featured a slew of announcements and sneak peeks, leaving attendees buzzing with excitement. The highlight of the day was the panel for The Mandalorian and Grogu, which showcased new footage from the upcoming movie set to hit theaters on May 22, 2026. The film will mark the duo's big-screen debut, and fans were treated to a glimpse of Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal) and Grogu in action, alongside the character Rotta the Hutt, voiced by Jeremy Allen White.
During the panel, director Jon Favreau and co-creator Dave Filoni discussed the creative process behind the film, emphasizing their commitment to capturing the essence of Star Wars while introducing fresh narratives. "We wanted to create something that not only honors the legacy but also pushes the boundaries of storytelling within this universe," said Favreau.
Adding to the excitement, Shawn Levy's upcoming film, titled Star Wars: Starfighter, was officially announced. Set for release on May 28, 2027, the film will explore new characters and stories in the Star Wars universe. Levy expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "This script is filled with heart and adventure, and I couldn't be more thrilled to bring it to life." The surprise appearance of Ryan Gosling, who will star in the film, further electrified the crowd.
In addition to these announcements, the Lucasfilm Animation panel celebrated its 20th anniversary, featuring a retrospective on beloved series like The Clone Wars and Rebels. Filoni praised the team for their dedication to storytelling, stating, "None of these shows happen without the hard work and creativity of everyone involved." The panel also revealed a new animated series titled Maul: Shadow Lord, set to debut in 2026, which will follow the exploits of the iconic Sith character.
Fans were treated to exclusive footage from Tales of the Underworld, showcasing Asajj Ventress's resurrection and her return to the fight. The episode was well received, with attendees expressing their excitement for more content centered around the fan-favorite character.
Merchandise announcements were also a significant part of the celebration. Hasbro unveiled two new figures in the Star Wars: The Vintage Collection: Moff Gideon and Cobb Vanth. These figures are designed at a 3.75-inch scale and will be available for preorder starting April 18, 2025. Moff Gideon's figure features accessories inspired by his appearance in the Season 3 finale of The Mandalorian, while Cobb Vanth's figure is based on his look from The Book of Boba Fett.
As the day progressed, panels continued to highlight the diverse storytelling within the Star Wars universe. The Lucasfilm Publishing: Manga Mania! panel delved into the past and future of Star Wars manga, unveiling new announcements and covers for upcoming releases. The connection between Star Wars and Japanese culture was a recurring theme, explored in the Telling Stories Across Cultures panel, which discussed the influence of Japanese storytelling on the franchise.
Looking ahead, the excitement will continue with panels for Andor and Ahsoka scheduled for April 19, 2025. The Andor panel will feature creator Tony Gilroy and executive producer Diego Luna, while the Ahsoka panel will reflect on the first season of the series, with special guests likely to provide insights into what fans can expect in the future.
Star Wars Celebration Japan 2025 is not just about announcements; it's a celebration of the community that has grown around the franchise. From cosplay showcases to interactive exhibits, fans have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the galaxy far, far away. The event also features exclusive merchandise, celebrity appearances, and a chance to connect with fellow enthusiasts.
As the first day of Star Wars Celebration Japan 2025 wraps up, fans are left eagerly anticipating what’s next. With so many exciting projects on the horizon, the future of Star Wars looks brighter than ever. "May the Force be with you!" is not just a saying; it's a mantra that resonates deeply within the hearts of fans worldwide.
As the celebration continues, updates and announcements will be shared across various platforms, ensuring that even those who couldn't attend can stay in the loop. For now, the excitement is palpable, and the legacy of Star Wars continues to thrive.
