The galaxy far, far away is expanding again — and this time, it’s bringing Ryan Gosling, Matt Smith, and Mia Goth into the mix. The highly anticipated upcoming Star Wars movie, titled Star Wars: Starfighter, is officially in the works under the direction of Shawn Levy, and fans got their first exciting look during Star Wars Celebration 2025.
Here’s everything we know so far about the Star Wars: Starfighter cast, release date, setting, director, and more — including the big news that Matt Smith will play the film’s villain.
What is the Star Wars: Starfighter release date?
Star Wars: Starfighter is scheduled to premiere in theaters on May 28, 2027.
It’s the next major Star Wars theatrical release following The Mandalorian and Grogu, which hits theaters a year earlier on May 22, 2026. While the wait may seem long, it promises to be worth it for fans who’ve been eager for fresh content on the big screen.
Who is starring in Star Wars: Starfighter?
The Star Wars: Starfighter cast features some heavy-hitters:
- Ryan Gosling (confirmed lead role)
- Matt Smith (villain role, character details under wraps)
- Mia Goth (role currently undisclosed)
While character names haven’t yet been released, the addition of such prominent actors — especially coming off major hits like Barbie and House of the Dragon — has generated enormous buzz in the Star Wars community.
Is Ryan Gosling’s role controversial?
Some longtime fans of the franchise were initially hesitant about Ryan Gosling joining the Star Wars universe due to his mainstream Hollywood fame. However, Gosling addressed the audience at Star Wars Celebration 2025, stating:
“Being here and seeing all of you [makes it] more inspiring to do it… The force is a mysterious thing, but, as I’m here, the force is the fans. All we can hope for is, ‘May the fans be with us.’”
His passion for the project has already won over many skeptics.
Who is directing Star Wars: Starfighter?
Shawn Levy, known for action hits like Free Guy, The Adam Project, and Deadpool & Wolverine, is set to direct Starfighter. This will be Levy’s first dive into the Star Wars franchise, and he’s promised to bring both the heart and action that fans expect.
The script is being written by Jonathan Tropper, who previously worked with Levy on The Adam Project and This Is Where I Leave You.
When is Star Wars: Starfighter set in the timeline?
According to director Shawn Levy, Star Wars: Starfighter is set a few years after the events of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. However, this is not a direct sequel to the Skywalker saga. Instead, it’s being described as a standalone Star Wars story with entirely new characters and an original narrative.
Levy explained:
“There are so many opportunities to tell a Star Wars story that has all the heart and action and fun of Star Wars, but to do it in ways that are new and original.”
Is there a trailer for Star Wars: Starfighter?
No official trailer for Star Wars: Starfighter has been released to the public yet. However, a short 20-second teaser was shown behind closed doors at Star Wars Celebration 2025, revealing only the title and release date. Since the film is still in pre-production, a full trailer isn’t expected until mid to late 2026, after filming begins in Fall 2025.
How to watch Star Wars: Starfighter
Star Wars: Starfighter will be available exclusively in theaters starting May 28, 2027. Streaming plans will likely follow later on Disney+, but theatrical release is the primary launch.
For more details, read the full report on Parade about Star Wars: Starfighter.
Stay tuned to TrendingNewsBuzz.com for more updates on upcoming Star Wars movies, casting announcements, trailers, and release schedules.
