Ryan Gosling to Star in 'Star Wars: Starfighter' Set After Rise of Skywalker
Director Shawn Levy pivots the franchise toward marginalized outsiders in a standalone film arriving May 2027.
Lucasfilm is expanding its cinematic universe with 'Star Wars: Starfighter,' a standalone feature that shifts the franchise's focus away from galactic royalty toward the fringes of society. The film, directed by Shawn Levy and written by Jonathan Tropper, is scheduled for theatrical release on May 28, 2027.
Ryan Gosling stars as Kade Auberon, a cynical rogue whose destiny becomes linked to the fastest starfighter ever constructed. Gosling describes his character as a man from the "wrong side of the galaxy," while Levy emphasizes that the narrative centers on marginalized outsiders who discover heroism through their shared connections. Joining Gosling in the lead cast is newcomer Flynn Gray.
A New Era in the Timeline
Unlike many recent entries that revisit established eras, 'Star Wars: Starfighter' is set approximately five years after the conclusion of 'Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.' This placement allows the filmmakers to explore a previously unseen period of the timeline without relying on legacy characters. By distancing the plot from the central conflicts of the Skywalker Saga, the production aims to establish a distinct identity within the broader lore.
Shifting the Stakes
This project represents a significant stylistic departure for the series. Rather than focusing on the high-stakes political maneuvering of galactic governments or the ancestral burdens of the Jedi, 'Starfighter' adopts a more grounded, character-driven approach. By centering the story on "blue-collar" characters and those cast aside by the prevailing social order, the film attempts to bring a more textured, human element to the space opera genre.
What to Watch
While the core cast and release date are locked, the film's specific impact on the post-Sequel era remains to be seen. Industry observers will be watching to see how Levy balances the franchise's established spectacle with this new, intimate focus on the galaxy's underclass. Further details regarding the supporting cast and the specific nature of the titular starfighter are expected as production progresses toward the 2027 premiere.