Ryan Gosling leads the cast of Star Wars: Starfighter, a standalone adventure directed by Shawn Levy that is scheduled for a theatrical release on May 28, 2027. Set approximately five years after the events of The Rise of Skywalker, the film introduces an entirely original story and characters in a period of the timeline never before explored on screen. Gosling portrays a pilot and protector figure who must safeguard his young nephew, played by newcomer Flynn Gray, from a group of "evil pursuers”.

The actor revealed that while he had previously avoided major franchises because they "never felt right," he was eventually won over by Levy’s infectious enthusiasm and a script that felt "worth waiting for". Gosling described his character as perhaps the "bravest" he has ever played, contrasting him with his previous roles in Barbie and Blade Runner 2049. Production for the film has already wrapped, featuring a star-studded supporting cast that includes Amy Adams, Matt Smith, and Mia Goth. 

A particularly surreal moment on set occurred when Tom Cruise reportedly made an unexpected visit during one of Gosling's off days, further adding to the high-profile nature of the production. Fans can expect the film to rely heavily on practical effects and puppets to recapture the "spirit of fun" associated with the original trilogy. As Disney prioritizes theatrical Star Wars releases, Starfighter is positioned as a major tentpole for 2027, following the release of The Mandalorian & Grogu later this month.