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New Mandalorian and Grogu Movie Footage Debuts at Disney Shareholders Meeting

Grogu using a telescope while the Mandalorian looks on from behind a sand dune.

During the recent Disney Annual Meeting of Shareholders, attendees were treated to a surprise look at the upcoming theatrical release, The Mandalorian and Grogu. The meeting was supposed to serve as a transition point for the company’s leadership. When Star Wars is involved though, important things seem trivial. Most important to Star Wars fans was the brief glimpses of Din Djarin and his young apprentice that stole the show for interested fans looking for any Star Wars news.

The Mandalorian and Grogu movie footage was first brought to light by the X account Mando3media, which shared clips showcasing both in-movie action and behind-the-scenes looks at the production. For fans who have been starving for theatrical Star Wars content since 2019, these snippets provide a tantalizing preview of what director Jon Favreau has in store for the franchise’s cinematic comeback.


Flamethrowers and Face Reveals

One of the most exciting aspects of the leaked Mandalorian and Grogu movie footage is a shot of Din Djarin back in his element, utilizing his iconic wrist-mounted flamethrower. This high-octane action is a staple of the character, but seeing it framed for the scale of an IMAX screen highlights the “leveled up” production value Favreau has previously promised for this film.

Perhaps more surprisingly, the footage included a behind-the-scenes shot of Pedro Pascal donning the famous Beskar helmet. While Pascal has famously provided the voice and occasional physical performance for the character on the Disney+ series, seeing him physically suited up for the film suggests a more hands-on presence for the actor in this theatrical outing. Recent interviews have hinted that the decision for Din Djarin to remove his helmet or show more vulnerability “made total sense” for this specific story arc, and this footage further fuels that speculation.

A Cinematic Leap for the Mando-Verse

The transition from streaming to cinema is a bold move for Lucasfilm. The Mandalorian and Grogu is set to release on May 22, 2026, marking the first time a Star Wars film has hit theaters in seven years. According to reports from the shareholder meeting, the film is being positioned as a marquee release for Disney’s 2026 slate.

The footage also hints at the broader scope of the movie. While the Disney+ series often felt contained, the movie aims to capture “box office glory” by expanding the New Republic era.


What’s Next for Fans?

With only a few months left until the May premiere, the marketing machine is beginning to shift into high gear. While some of the Mandalorian and Grogu movie footage shown to shareholders may remain exclusive to that event, there is growing hope that a new, full-length trailer is just around the corner. Some fans speculate that the footage shown at the meeting might be part of a special behind-the-scenes featurette currently playing in select IMAX theaters ahead of other major releases.

As the New Republic works to maintain order against scattered Imperial warlords, Din Djarin and Grogu find themselves at the heart of a conflict that is clearly too big for the small screen. Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the legendary duo’s jump to lightspeed this May.

The Mandalorian and Grogu | Official Trailer | In Theaters May 22

Are you going to be watching this movie opening weekend? Leave your thoughts in the comments section below! May the Force be with you!

New Mandalorian and Grogu Funko Pops Leaked Online Ahead of Movie Debut

A collection of five leaked Star Wars Funko Pops for "The Mandalorian & Grogu," featuring a muscular green Hutt-like creature with axes, Grogu eating a snack, a tall slender green alien with a spear, an Anzellan character, and Din Djarin with a shield and vibroblade.

The hype for the upcoming theatrical release of The Mandalorian & Grogu is reaching a fever pitch, and collectors now have even more reason to be excited. Thanks to recent leaks from Funko POP News on Facebook, a brand-new wave of Mandalorian and Grogu Funko Pops has been revealed, giving fans a glimpse at the characters and vehicles that will define the next chapter of the Star Wars saga.

While Funko often keeps their official announcements close to the chest until major events like Toy Fair, these latest leaks provide a comprehensive look at what is coming to store shelves later this year. From new armor sets to surprising character returns, here is everything we know about the leaked figures.

A Closer Look at the Leaked Figures

The centerpiece of this new wave is, unsurprisingly, the titular duo. The leaked images showcase a standard-sized Pop of the Mandalorian (Din Djarin) featuring updated armor details that appear to reflect his look in the upcoming film. He features new weapons such as some sort of axe and a sword.

Surprising Character Additions

Perhaps the most exciting part of the Mandalorian and Grogu Funko Pops leak is the inclusion of characters beyond the main pair. The leak suggests we will be seeing a Funko Pop of Rotta the Hutt. You cannot tell from the leaks if this will be a deluxe POP, or just a regular release.

Additionally, the wave includes another adorable Grogu, a tiny Anzellan character, and Amani alien (Amanaman for you long time Kenner folks.)

Why We Are Excited

These Mandalorian and Grogu Funko Pops are more than just collectibles; they often serve as the first “unofficial” confirmation of plot points and character designs for upcoming Star Wars projects. The detailed sculpts and specific accessories, like the confirmation of Rotta the Hutt, provide context for the character development we can expect when the film hits theaters in May 2026.

As always, while these leaks come from reliable sources within the community, we await official confirmation and high-resolution glamour shots from Funko. However, if these leaks are any indication, Star Wars fans should start clearing shelf space immediately.

Stay tuned to Outer Rim News for more updates on The Mandalorian & Grogu merchandise and movie news as it breaks!

The Mandalorian and Grogu Runtime: How Long is the New Star Wars Movie?

The Mandalorian wearing his shiny silver Beskar armor and helmet with the small, green, large-eared Grogu sitting on his right shoulder inside a dimly lit cantina.

Are you ready for a big adventure in a galaxy far, far away? We have some very exciting news about the new movie, The Mandalorian and Grogu. If you love the show on Disney+, you are probably wondering how long you will get to sit in the theater and watch Mando and his little green friend on the big screen.

According to a new listing from Odeon Theaters, we might finally know The Mandalorian and Grogu runtime. It looks like the movie will be about two hours and twenty minutes long. That is a lot of time to see Grogu eat snacks and Mando use his cool gadgets!

Is This a Long Movie?

You might be thinking, “Is two hours and twenty minutes a long time?” Well, for a Star Wars movie, it is right in the middle. Some Star Wars movies are a little shorter, and some are a little longer. For example, A New Hope was only two hours and five minutes. But The Last Jedi was two hours and thirty-two minutes!

This new movie is exactly the same length as Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith. That means it is long enough to tell a really big story, but not so long that you will fall asleep in your popcorn.

Why Does the Runtime Matter for Fans?

Star Wars fans are very excited about this news. Usually, when we watch The Mandalorian at home, the episodes are short. Some are only thirty minutes long! Having a full movie means we get much more action all at once.

Sometimes theaters put a time on their website before the movie is finished. This is called a “placeholder.” However, many people think this time is real because it fits perfectly with other Star Wars films.

What is the Movie About?

In this new story, Din Djarin (that is Mando’s real name!) and Grogu are going on a huge mission. We know that Jon Favreau is the director. He wants to make sure the movie feels like the classic Star Wars movies we all love.

There are even rumors that we will see some old friends. From the trailers, we know that Zeb from the show Star Wars Rebels, will at the very least be making a cameo. We will also be making a return to Hoth (possibly), or some new snow planet, with a look at even more of those awesome Imperial vehicles from Empire.

When Can We See It?

You don’t have to wait too much longer. The Mandalorian and Grogu will be in theaters on May 22, 2026. That is just around the corner! Make sure you save up your galactic credits for a big bucket of popcorn.

Whether you are a new fan or have loved Star Wars for a long time, this movie looks like it will be a blast. A two-hour and twenty-minute adventure with Mando and Grogu is exactly what we need. Stay tuned here for more news!

The Mandalorian and Grogu Movie News: New Stills and Empire Details Leaked

Jon Favreau stands behind Din Djarin and Grogu on a practical set for the upcoming Star Wars movie.

Whether you are a lifelong follower or one of the newer fans of the galaxy far, far away, the latest updates regarding The Mandalorian and Grogu are bound to stir up excitement. A massive info drop recently surfaced on the r/StarWarsLeaks subreddit, originating from an upcoming Empire Magazine feature. This leak provides the clearest picture yet of what to expect when Din Djarin and his tiny apprentice make their jump to the big screen.

From the return of familiar animated characters to the high-stakes mission given by a Hollywood legend, here is everything we learned from the new The Mandalorian and Grogu details.

Proceed with caution. Some of this information could be seen as SPOILERY!!

A New Mission from Colonel Ward

One of the most anticipated additions to the cast is Sigourney Weaver. She is playing Colonel Ward, a “no-nonsense” officer stationed at the New Republic’s Adelphi Base. According to Weaver, Ward is hesitant but ultimately decides to rely on Din Djarin for a “very tricky” first commission.

This setup suggests that the film will lean into the “bounty hunter of the week” roots that original fans fell in love with during Season 1, but with the added scale of a theatrical New Republic operation.

The Return of Rotta the Hutt

In perhaps the most shocking piece of The Mandalorian and Grogu movie news, Dave Filoni and Jon Favreau confirmed that Rotta the Hutt, Jabba’s son from The Clone Wars, will return. No longer a “Huttlet,” Rotta has aged up and is attempting to forge his own path. A “Hutt fanatic,” Favreau inspired this creative choice. Dave Filoni laughs at including Jabba’s son in a live-action film.

“I never imagined, working at Lucasfilm, that 20 years later I would be working on a [live-action] film that has Rotta in it.”

Favreau compared Rotta’s journey to that of Adonis Creed, noting the weight of carrying a famous (or infamous) family name. Seeing a live-action Hutt who isn’t just a crime lord, but a character with a “Creed-like” redemption or identity arc, is a fascinating narrative pivot for the franchise.

The Shadow Council and the Mysterious Warlord

With Moff Gideon out of the picture, the Imperial Remnant is far from defeated. The Shadow Council is coordinating their efforts in the Outer Rim, and a new face is leading the charge. Actor Jonny Coyne portrays a mysterious warlord whose name is being kept under wraps. Favreau teased that fans will love the character’s name once it is revealed, leading to rampant speculation that a classic Legends character like Warlord Zsinj might finally be canonized.

Leaked stills also show a peculiar image of Grogu in a birdcage-like contraption, suggesting the Imperial Remnant’s pursuit of the Child has reached a desperate new level.

A leaked stills showing Grogu in a birdcage-like contraption sitting beside a mysterious Imperial warlord.

A Cinematic Evolution

While the Disney+ series relied heavily on “The Volume” (LED wall technology), the production of The Mandalorian and Grogu marks a shift back to massive practical sets. Pedro Pascal reportedly filmed “the craziest” sets on his phone, promising a scale unlike anything seen in the streaming era.

Furthermore, the film will feature more stop-motion work from the legendary Phil Tippett studio and a heavier reliance on puppets and IMAX-grade CGI. Composer Ludwig Göransson also noted that Grogu is “more grown-up” and “independent” in this outing, with significantly more screentime than in previous seasons.

“Pedro is a pretty physical performer. We pushed a little further than we have in the past.” – Jon Favreau

The Fate of Season 4

The leak also cleared up the confusion regarding the previously announced Season 4. Jon Favreau confirmed that he had written the entire fourth season, but the 2023 Hollywood strikes shifted the studio’s priorities. The scripts were shelved in favor of moving the story to the big screen, ensuring that the next chapter of Din Djarin’s life is a true cinematic event.

For fans worried about “homework,” Favreau emphasized that the movie is designed as a fresh start. While Ahsoka Season 2 will handle the heavy lore and New Republic politics, The Mandalorian and Grogu is focused on being an accessible, high-octane adventure for everyone.

Are you excited to see Din Djarin and his apprentice on the big screen? The return of Rotta the Hutt adds a surprising twist to this upcoming adventure. Many fans look forward to seeing how Sigourney Weaver’s character shapes the story. Do you think the mysterious warlord is a classic Legends character? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation with fellow fans!

LEGO 75451 Hutt and Droid: New Mandalorian Set Rumors Surface for August 2026

Silhouette of a LEGO Hutt figure with a question mark on a yellow LEGO stud background, featuring the LEGO logo.

As the hype for the upcoming The Mandalorian & Grogu movie continues to build, the latest LEGO leak suggests that a highly anticipated, budget-friendly set is on the horizon. According to recent reports, LEGO 75451 Hutt and Droid is slated for release in August 2026, bringing a fan-favorite species back to the brick in a more accessible way than we have seen in years.

The Source of the Leak

The information regarding this new set first surfaced on Instagram via the well-known leaker lego_minecraft_goat. This source has built a reputation within the community for providing early glimpses into upcoming waves, and while all rumors should be taken with a grain of salt until officially confirmed by the LEGO Group, the level of detail provided has sparked significant excitement among LEGO fans.

Set Details: Piece Count and Price Point

According to the leak, LEGO 75451 Hutt and Droid will be a mid-range playset designed to bridge the gap between small battle packs and the larger, more expensive vehicle builds.

  • Set Number: 75451
  • Set Name: Hutt and Droid
  • Piece Count: 415 pieces
  • Price: $49.99
  • Release Window: August 2026

At a price point of $49.99, this set is particularly noteworthy. For years, obtaining a Hutt figure, most notably Jabba the Hutt, required purchasing massive, high-priced sets like the Sail Barge or Jabba’s Palace. A 415-piece set at this price suggests we may finally be getting a “play-scale” version of a Hutt character that won’t break the bank for younger collectors and adult fans alike.

Ties to The Mandalorian & Grogu Movie

While the “Hutt and Droid” name is relatively simple, the context is what matters. This set is rumored to be part of the wave tied directly to the new Mandalorian film. Early speculation from the community suggests the “Hutt” in question might not be Jabba, but perhaps a different member of the Hutt Clan, Rotta the Hutt, who will be making an appearance in the new cinematic era of the Mandoverse.

The inclusion of a “Droid” in the title has also led to various theories. Some believe it could be a specialized mercenary droid or a new security model seen in the movie trailers. Given the piece count, many expect a small diorama or a portion of a throne room, providing just enough environmental detail to house the larger Hutt figure and its robotic companion.

As we move closer to the summer, we expect to see “preliminary” images or official reveals from LEGO. Stay tuned to Outer Rim News as we continue to track every leak from the outer rim to the core worlds.

The Mandalorian and Grogu Writing Credits Reveal Return of Key Disney+ Writer

A black and white composite image featuring three men: Noah Kloor, Dave Filoni wearing his signature black cowboy hat, and Jon Favreau. They are positioned against a blurred, tan-colored Star Wars-themed background.

With the highly anticipated release of The Mandalorian and Grogu just a few months away, new details regarding the creative team behind the film are starting to emerge. We have known that Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni would be the primary architects of the big-screen transition for Din Djarin. The official The Mandalorian and Grogu writing credits have now been made public, revealing a third writer in the mix.

According to the official filings from the Writers Guild of America (WGA), the screenplay for the upcoming Star Wars feature is credited to Jon Favreau, Dave Filoni, and Noah Kloor.

Who is Noah Kloor?

While Favreau and Filoni are household names for Star Wars fans, Noah Kloor’s involvement marks the return of a key creative voice from the “MandoVerse” on Disney+. Kloor is no stranger to the inner workings of Lucasfilm’s current television era. He was a primary writer on The Book of Boba Fett, where he received credit on every single episode of the series alongside Favreau.

Beyond the Boba Fett spin-off, Kloor also contributed to The Mandalorian Season 3. He specifically co-wrote “Chapter 19: The Convert,” the expanded episode that delved into the New Republic’s Amnesty Program on Coruscant.

Keeping the Circle Small

The inclusion of Kloor in The Mandalorian and Grogu writing credits suggests that Favreau is maintaining a tight-knit creative circle for the franchise’s return to theaters. Rather than bringing in outside screenwriters, Lucasfilm is doubling down on the writers who helped define the tone and lore of the streaming era.

Fans of the series have seen this collaborative trio work together before to bridge the gaps between different corners of the Outer Rim. Kloor’s experience with both the underworld elements of The Book of Boba Fett and the political intrigue of The Mandalorian Season 3 may hint at the scope of the new movie.

Looking Ahead

The Mandalorian and Grogu is currently scheduled to hit theaters on May 22nd. As the first Star Wars film to reach the big screen since 2019, the pressure is on to deliver a cinematic experience that satisfies long-time fans while expanding the scope of the “MandoVerse.”

With the writing team now officially confirmed, the focus shifts to how these three creators will conclude, or continue, the journey of the galaxy’s most famous clan of two. Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the May release date.

The Mandalorian and Grogu Movie Updates: Kathleen Kennedy Reveals Why Grogu Stays Silent

A cinematic shot featuring a Mandalorian, the small, green character Grogu, and Kathleen Kennedy.

As the galaxy far, far away prepares for its grand return to the big screen, Lucasfilm’s leadership is reflecting on the elements that make the franchise a global phenomenon. At the 73rd Annual MPSE Golden Reel Awards, former Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy was honored with the 2026 Filmmaker Award. During the event, she shared pivotal insights into the upcoming film The Mandalorian and Grogu, specifically addressing the creative choices behind the galaxy’s favorite foundling.

Preserving the Silence of Grogu

One of the most significant revelations from the event was the confirmation that Grogu will not gain the power of speech in the upcoming movie. Despite being of the same species as the legendary Jedi Master Yoda, who was famously talkative, albeit with unique syntax, the creative team has decided that Grogu’s emotive silence is a cornerstone of his appeal.

Kennedy emphasized that sound design plays a vital role in grounding characters like Grogu. While fans might have expected the “Baby Yoda” of the group to eventually start uttering his first words as he matures under Din Djarin’s tutelage, the production team believes his wordless communication is what allows fans to connect with him so deeply. By utilizing chirps, coos, and physical gestures, the sound team at Skywalker Sound continues to bring an emotional depth to the character that words simply couldn’t replicate.

Grogu sitting at a table eating a blue macaron cookie.
Image from The Mandalorian Season 2, Episode 4: “Chapter 12: The Siege”

A Legacy of Sound in Star Wars

In her acceptance speech, Kennedy drew parallels between the sound design of The Mandalorian and Grogu and her earlier work on iconic films. She noted that just as the raspy breathing of E.T. made the character feel like a real friend rather than a puppet, the auditory identity of Grogu is what makes him “real” to millions of fans.

This focus on the “auditory soul” of the franchise is a hallmark of the Lucasfilm. From the hum of a lightsaber to the distinct binary of R2-D2, the soundscape has always been as important as the visual effects. As the franchise transitions into its next era, this commitment to traditional storytelling through sound remains a top priority.

The Future of the Franchise and The Mandalorian and Grogu

Set for release in May 2026, The Mandalorian and Grogu represents a major shift for Star Wars, moving the narrative from the small screen of Disney+ back to the theatrical experience. Directed by Jon Favreau and produced by Kennedy alongside Dave Filoni, the film is expected to set the stage for the future of the New Republic era.

Aside from the The Mandalorian and Grogu movie updates, Kennedy also touched upon her transition out of the leadership role at Lucasfilm, a move that has been carefully planned over a ten-year mentoring process. With Dave Filoni and Lynwen Brennan moving into primary leadership positions, the “Filoni-verse” is poised to expand even further. Kennedy’s reflections at the MPSE awards serve as a reminder that while the leadership may change, the core tenets of Star Wars, innovation in sound and a focus on emotive, silent characters, are here to stay.

For fans, the message is clear: when we see Grogu on the big screen in 2026, he will be the same mysterious, silent, and lovable apprentice we first met on Arvala-7, proving that sometimes, you don’t need words to tell a galaxy-spanning story.

The Mandalorian and Grogu Movie: New Image and Era Revealed

The Mandalorian (Din Djarin) piloting an Imperial AT-RT walker through a snowy, mountainous landscape in a still from The Mandalorian and Grogu movie.

The galaxy far, far away is finally preparing for its grand return to the silver screen. After years of dominating the streaming landscape on Disney+, the “Clan of Two” is making the leap to theaters with The Mandalorian and Grogu. While fans have followed their adventures across three seasons of television, the upcoming film, set for release on May 22, 2026, promises a scale and cinematic depth that marks a bold new chapter for Lucasfilm.

In a massive new cover story from the latest issue of Empire, director Jon Favreau and Lucasfilm Chief Creative Officer Dave Filoni shared fresh insights into the production. Alongside the interview, a new official image has been released, giving fans an evocative look at the duo in a high-stakes environment that hints at the “different era” the film occupies.


A Cinematic Shift for the “Clan of Two”

Dave Filoni, who serves as the film’s co-writer and second-unit director, emphasized that this isn’t simply “Season 4” on a larger screen. Speaking to the press, Filoni noted that the film represents a “completely different era” of Star Wars. While the series was often defined by the gritty, localized adventures of a lone bounty hunter, the theatrical production aims to capture the grand operatic scale that only cinema can provide.

“What can’t you do now?” Filoni teased, referring to the expanded resources, practical sets, and visual effects scope of a major motion picture. He highlighted that while the spectacle is significantly larger, the emotional core remains the anchor. “If the characters are connecting, then the adventure plays, the action plays, the tension plays.”

The Official Image: A Glimpse into the Unknown

The latest official image released by Lucasfilm showcases Din Djarin and Grogu in a stunning new light. In the shot, the pair appear to be navigating a treacherous, snow-covered landscape that bears a striking resemblance to the icy world of Hoth or perhaps a new, unexplored frontier.

The Mandalorian (Din Djarin) piloting an Imperial AT-RT walker through a snowy, mountainous landscape in a still from The Mandalorian and Grogu movie.
A new official look at The Mandalorian and Grogu movie features Din Djarin commandeering an AT-RT on a frozen frontier. (Empire Magazine)

New Roles and High Stakes

When we first met Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal), he was a solitary mercenary governed by a strict code and a singular focus on the next bounty. The movie finds him in a very different place. Following the events of the most recent season, Din is no longer just a “hired gun.”

Jon Favreau explained that Din’s priorities have officially shifted toward serving the “good guys.” This new path leads him directly into the service of the New Republic. The film will see the duo working alongside Colonel Ward, played by the legendary Sigourney Weaver, as they track down Imperial remnants that still threaten the fragile peace of the galaxy.

The Future of the Star Wars Galaxy

For Lucasfilm, The Mandalorian and Grogu is more than just a sequel; it is a litmus test for the future of the franchise. It is the first theatrical release since 2019’s The Rise of Skywalker and the first to elevate characters born on streaming to a worldwide cinematic event.

With a cast that includes Pedro Pascal, Sigourney Weaver, and rumored appearances by Jeremy Allen White, the film is positioning itself as a celebration of the characters that saved Star Wars for a new generation of fans.

New The Mandalorian and Grogu Empire Magazine Covers Reveal the Duo’s Cinematic Future

Din Djarin and Grogu on the newsstand cover of Empire Magazine, alongside the subscriber-exclusive cover featuring Grogu.

The “Clan of Two” is officially ready for their close-up. As Lucasfilm prepares for its highly anticipated return to the silver screen, Empire Magazine has pulled back the curtain on its world-exclusive coverage for The Mandalorian and Grogu. These stunning new covers don’t just celebrate the return of Star Wars to theaters; they offer the most significant look yet at the evolution of Din Djarin and his young apprentice.

It has been nearly seven years since a Star Wars film graced the multiplex, and the choice to lead the charge with characters born on Disney+ signals a new era for the franchise.

A First Look at the Empire Magazine Covers

The reveal features two distinct covers that capture the scale of the upcoming blockbuster. The newsstand cover highlights the bond between the titular pair, showcasing Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal) and Grogu in on the set of a photo shoot.

Empire Magazine Newsstand Cover
Empire Magazine Newsstand Cover

Meanwhile, the subscriber-exclusive cover features an adorable photo of Grogu holding a clapper board.

Empire Magazine Subscriber Cover
Empire Magazine Subscriber Cover

From “Hired Gun” to New Republic Ally

The magazine asks director Jon Favreau and Lucasfilm co-CEO Dave Filoni (also the film’s co-writer) about why Din Djarin and ‘Baby Yoda’ are the perfect duo to launch Star Wars back on the big screen, and where this massive new outing takes them.

While some skeptics questioned whether a streaming series could translate to a feature film, Favreau is confident that the “cinematic” nature of the show was always intended for the largest screen possible. Filmed specifically for IMAX, The Mandalorian and Grogu promises to deliver the scale and “puppet cinema” charm of the original trilogy while pushing the boundaries of modern visual effects.

The film is set to bridge the gap between the fall of the Empire and the rise of the First Order, exploring the fragile stability of the New Republic. For fans who have followed every step of Din and Grogu’s journey, the movie represents a “graduation” from the small screen to the grand stage of Star Wars history.

Release Date and What’s Next

The Mandalorian and Grogu is scheduled to hit theaters on May 22, 2026. With the marketing machine now entering lightspeed via this Empire Magazine blowout, expectations are reaching a fever pitch. This special issue of Empire will go on sale at newsstands from next Thursday, March 12th 2026.

Stay tuned to Outer Rim News for more updates on the film’s plot, additional casting reveals, and deep dives into the lore of the New Republic era. This is the way… to the theater!

Secure Your Pre-Order for the S.H.Figuarts The Mandalorian & Grogu Movie Version

The galaxy’s most iconic duo is heading to the silver screen, and Tamashii Nations is wasting no time bringing their updated cinematic looks to your display shelf. Bandai has officially announced the S.H.Figuarts The Mandalorian & Grogu Movie Version, a premium 2-pack specifically designed to celebrate the upcoming feature film, STAR WARS: The Mandalorian and Grogu.

With pre-orders set to open on March 3, 2026, at 4:00 pm JST, collectors are already bracing for what is sure to be one of the fastest-selling releases of the year. This isn’t just a simple repack of previous Mando figures, it’s a significant upgrade that introduces new sculpts and material choices to reflect their big-screen evolution.

What’s New in the Movie Version?

The S.H.Figuarts The Mandalorian & Grogu Movie Version marks a shift toward even higher realism for the 6-inch scale line. While Din Djarin’s Beskar armor remains the gold standard for bounty hunter chic, this set features “partially newly sculpted parts” to align with the specific aesthetics seen in the movie’s production.

The most notable upgrades include:

  • Fabric Grogu Outfit: In a move that will please soft-goods fans, Grogu’s robes are now recreated using high-quality fabric. This allows for more natural sitting and standing poses, moving away from the “static” plastic look of previous iterations.
  • All-New Hover Pram: The child’s essential pod has been completely redesigned with an all-new sculpt. This updated pram reflects the wear and tear (or perhaps the upgrades) seen in the latest chapter of their journey.
  • Refined Proportions: Tamashii Nations has tweaked the Mandalorian’s silhouette to better capture the onscreen presence of the character as he transitions from Disney+ to the theater.

With The Mandalorian and Grogu movie serving as a massive milestone for the Star Wars franchise, this S.H.Figuarts set is going to be a hot-ticket item for the film’s launch.

Historically, S.H.Figuarts has outperformed competitors in articulation and paint application. This movie-specific set continues that tradition, offering the “Clan of Two” with the level of detail that only the Japanese import market consistently provides. Whether you are a “mint-on-card” collector or an avid toy photographer, the inclusion of the fabric robes on Grogu and the updated armor details on Mando make this a mandatory upgrade.

Pre-Order and Release Details

If you want to add the S.H.Figuarts The Mandalorian & Grogu Movie Version to your collection, you’ll need to act fast. Here is the breakdown of the essential info:

DetailInformation
Pre-Order DateMarch 3, 2026
Pre-Order Time4:00 pm JST
Scheduled ReleaseMay 2026
Price15,950 Yen (Approx. $105 USD)
FormatRetail Release (General Stores)

Given that this is a “General Retail” release in Japan, you can expect to find it at major import sites like AmiAmi, Hobby-Link Japan, and eventually domestic US retailers like BigBadToyStore or Entertainment Earth (usually with a slight “Bluefin” markup).

Final Thoughts

As the hype for the movie continues to build, this S.H.Figuarts set is the perfect way to bring the excitement home. The combination of newly sculpted armor and the leap to soft-goods for Grogu shows that Bandai is listening to fan feedback.

Are you going to add this one to your collection? Let us know in the comments below, and keep it locked to Outer Rim News for more breaking Star Wars toy news!

Josh D’Amaro’s Star Wars Strategy: How the New CEO Plans to Save the Galaxy

Josh D’Amaro's Star Wars Strategy

As the Walt Disney Company prepares for a changing of the guard, all eyes are on Josh D’Amaro. The former Chairman of Disney Experiences is set to officially succeed Bob Iger as CEO on March 18, 2026. While D’Amaro’s resume is steeped in the success of Disney Parks, Variety’s recent deep dive into his vision reveals Josh D’Amaro’s Star Wars Strategy designed to stabilize a franchise currently navigating a complex transition period.

For Star Wars fans, D’Amaro’s promotion is a double-edged sword. On one hand, he is the executive who oversaw the launch of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. On the other, he inherits a Lucasfilm slate that has faced significant scrutiny and a shifting release calendar.

Modernizing the Falcon: “From Liked to Loved”

One of the most immediate signs of D’Amaro’s influence on the franchise can be found in the cockpit of the Millennium Falcon. During a recent design session with Walt Disney Imagineering, D’Amaro was candid about the current state of Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run.

“Guests like it, but they don’t love it,” D’Amaro remarked. His critique centers on the lack of agency for passengers in the gunner and engineer roles. As part of his broader effort to revitalize the brand, D’Amaro is pushing for a massive software overhaul of the attraction. On May 22, 2026, both Disneyland and Disney’s Hollywood Studios will debut a new mission featuring the Mandalorian and Grogu. This update isn’t just a cosmetic change; it’s a fundamental shift in interactivity, ensuring every rider has a significant impact on the mission’s outcome.

The AI Frontier and OpenAI Partnership

Perhaps the most controversial pillar of Josh D’Amaro’s Star Wars Strategy is the integration of artificial intelligence. Disney recently finalized a landmark $1 billion deal with OpenAI, licensing iconic characters, including those from Star Wars, for use in the Sora video-generation platform.

D’Amaro has been vocal about his belief that AI will boost, not replace, human creativity. In the Star Wars universe, this technology is being positioned as a tool for “fan engagement.” Imagine a future where Disney+ viewers can interact with a generative version of Coruscant or receive personalized storytelling experiences. While purists remain skeptical, D’Amaro views this as the next evolution of the “living story” concept he championed in the parks.

The Theatrical and Streaming Balancing Act

While D’Amaro’s background is in “Experiences,” he is working closely with newly named Chief Creative Officer Dana Walden to right the ship at Lucasfilm. The report indicates a shift toward quality over quantity. Following the high-volume output of the early 2020s, the current mandate is more focused.

Internal buzz is high for the upcoming project Star Wars: Starfighter, which insiders believe captures the “classic” feel of the original trilogy. However, there remains a healthy level of skepticism regarding The Mandalorian and Grogu film. D’Amaro’s challenge will be proving that Star Wars can still dominate the box office while managing a streaming schedule that may see a “quiet year” in 2027 as the studio refocuses its creative energy.

Gaming and the “Fortnite” Universe

Beyond the screen and the parks, D’Amaro is leaning heavily into gaming. His strategy involves a deep collaboration with Epic Games to create a persistent Disney universe within Fortnite. For Star Wars, this means the franchise will no longer just be a series of “events” or “skins” but a permanent fixture in a digital social space. This “interactivity” is a core tenet of D’Amaro’s vision for the next decade of Star Wars fandom.

A New Hope?

Josh D’Amaro’s Star Wars strategy represents a move away from the traditional media model and toward a future defined by “experience intelligence.” By focusing on interactivity, leveraging cutting-edge AI, and fixing existing fan pain points in the parks, D’Amaro is betting that the path to saving Star Wars lies in making the fans the protagonists of their own stories.

As he takes the helm this March, the galaxy far, far away is about to get a lot more personal.


Disney's next CEO Josh D'Amaro tells David Muir about company's approach to AI

This video provides a direct look at Josh D’Amaro’s communication style and his specific approach to technology and AI, which are central to his plans for the Star Wars franchise.

Pre-Order the Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu Model Kit Set Now!

Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu The Mandalorian and Grogu Model Kit Set

Time for another adventure! Bandai Hobby is proud to present a new model kit based on the titular duo of The Mandalorian and Grogu as they set off on a new quest in the smash hit film Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu! Designed with amazing detail, this kit, once assembled, features multiple expression pieces and body types for Grogu that will allow you to re-enact your favorite moments from the film! Grab your blaster and dust off that armor set as you order your model kit today and add it to your collection!

You can currently pre-order this kit at BigBadToyStore for $55.99. It is set for an August 2026 release.

Product Features

  • Made of plastic
  • Based on the Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu film
  • Highly detailed
  • Officially licensed
  • Instructions may or may not include English translation

Box Contents

  • Pieces to build
    • The Mandalorian
    • Grogu
      • 2 Expression pieces
      • 3 Body type pieces
  • Instructions

Will you be adding this model kit to your collection? Leave your thoughts in the comments section below. Tell us if you will be building The Mandalorian and Grogu!