The Next Big "Star Wars" Villain: "House of the Dragon" Star Cast in "Starfighter"

The upcoming "Star Wars: Starfighter" film, starring Ryan Gosling, has added a new cast member: According to industry magazine Deadline, "House of the Dragon" actor Matt Smith has been cast as the new main antagonist in the "Star Wars" universe!

Director Shawn Levy reportedly met with various actors over the past few weeks – and the role ultimately went to Smith. Specific details about his character have not yet been revealed by the outlet. However, according to their sources, his role is a central figure and "the next great villain in the Star Wars universe."

Smith is best known to fantasy fans as Daemon Targaryen in the "Game of Thrones" spin-off "House of the Dragon". He first gained wider recognition playing The Doctor in the iconic British TV show "Doctor Who". The actor has also appeared in the Netflix series "The Crown" and Edgar Wright's "Last Night in Soho".

What Is Known About "Star Wars: Starfighter"?

In "Star Wars: Starfighter", Smith now joins a prominent cast. As has been known for some time, Hollywood star Ryan Gosling will play the lead role. Also part of the cast is Mia Goth, known for her work in horror films.

Initial details about the movie's plot were already revealed at Star Wars Celebration 2025 in Japan. "Starfighter" will take place five years after the events of "Episode 9: The Rise of Skywalker". However, the film is not part of the Skywalker saga, but tells a standalone story with completely new characters. Filming is scheduled to begin in fall 2025. A theatrical release date has already been announced: "Starfighter" is set to hit theaters on May 28, 2027.

What More Can We Expect from the "Star Wars" Universe?

The Mandalorian & Grogu – The Next "Star Wars" Movie

But before "Starfighter" hits theaters, another film from the "Star Wars" universe will be released first: "The Mandalorian & Grogu". The story takes place after the third season of the hit series "The Mandalorian". Naturally, Pedro Pascal returns as bounty hunter Din Djarin, with Grogu, also known as "Baby Yoda", once again by his side.

Just like "Starfighter", "The Mandalorian & Grogu" was a major highlight at Star Wars Celebration. One of the biggest moments was the premiere of the first trailer – although it has only been shown on-site so far. The trailer features action-packed scenes with Din Djarin, including what appears to be a snowy planet. A first glimpse of screen legend Sigourney Weaver, known for "Alien" and "Avatar", also made waves. She appears as a leader of the New Republic. Fans were also treated to an image of Din Djarin without his helmet – a rare moment, as we know the Mandalorian only shows his face in exceptional situations.

With "The Mandalorian & Grogu", the "Star Wars" universe is set to return to the big screen after more than six years. The release date is already confirmed: Din Djarin and Grogu will hit theaters on May 22, 2026. You can find more details in our full film preview – and we hope to share the official trailer with you very soon!

"Ahsoka" Season 2 – Big Comebacks and Recastings

There are already a few details about the next season of "Ahsoka". Most notably: Hayden Christensen will once again appear as Anakin Skywalker. Following the passing of Ray Stevenson, Rory McCann ("Game of Thrones") will take over the role of Baylan Skoll. A fan favorite is also set to return: Admiral Ackbar will be part of the new season as well. Season 2 is currently scheduled to premiere in 2026.

"Star Wars: Visions" – New Episodes and a Spin-off

There is good news for fans of "Star Wars: Visions": Season 3 is set to premiere on Disney+ as early as October 29, 2025. Nine new episodes are planned, including continuations of already familiar stories. In addition, a spin-off has been announced, based on an episode from Season 1. The series will be titled "Star Wars: Visions Presents – The Ninth Jedi".

Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord and More Animated Content

In 2026, fans can look forward to a new animated series, "Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord", centered around the dark fan-favorite Darth Maul. The story takes place after the events of "Star Wars: The Clone Wars", with Maul leading a criminal syndicate in the galaxy's underworld.

Also in the pipeline is the third season of "Young Jedi Adventures", set to premiere in fall 2025. Additionally, Lucasfilm is working on a series that is still under wraps. The only known details so far are about the creative duo behind the project: Carlton Cuse (former co-showrunner of "Lost") and his son Nick Cuse are developing the new series together.

There is plenty of fresh content coming for "Star Wars" fans. But is that necessarily a good thing? Many fans believe the franchise has suffered a decline in quality. We have therefore taken a closer look at the present situation and the future of "Star Wars" in our KinoCheck Original: