Ryan Gosling is calling on Anakin Skywalker for assistance. Gosling, who is set to lead “Star Wars” franchise installment “Star Wars: Starfighter,” had dinner with iconic star Hayden Christensen, who famously played the young Darth Vader in the prequel films (he later reprised the role for series “Obi-Wan Kenobi” and “Ahsoka.”)
Christensen told ET while at “Star Wars” Celebration in Tokyo that Gosling is an “awesome” actor who would fit into the franchise well. “I don’t think he needs any advice. He’s awesome,” Christensen said. “I got to have dinner with him last night, and I know he’s really excited to now be in the ‘Star Wars’ family, and I’m excited for his film.”
“Star Wars: Starfighter” will be directed by Shawn Levy, and is billed as a standalone film that takes place five years after the events of 2019’s “Star Wars: Episode IX — The Rise of Skywalker.” Jonathan Tropper, who worked with Levy on “This Is Where I Leave You” and “The Adam Project,” is writing the script. “Anora” Oscar winner Mikey Madison was offered a role opposite Gosling but the actress passed. The feature begins production this fall and will be released in theaters May 28, 2027.
Levy’s film has been in development since 2022, with Gosling being first reported to be in talks to join the “Star Wars” universe in January. And the “‘Star Wars’ family” is ready to have Gosling be the latest actor addition: Pedro Pascal, who will lead the feature “The Mandalorian & Grogu” after starring in “The Mandalorian” series, also told ET that he is open to working with Gosling to prepare for “Starfighter.”
“Any advice for Ryan? I don’t know, Ryan, call me,” Pascal said. “We can talk about it. Whatever you want to know. I’m here for you.”
Gosling’s recent filmography has been “Star Wars” adjacent, as the actor is leading sci-fi feature “Project Hail Mary” from directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, who were originally slated to direct the Han Solo prequel film before Ron Howard took over. Gosling also appeared in stunt-centric 2024 film “The Fall Guy.”
Additional “Star Wars” projects in development include one from James Mangold, another from Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, a new trilogy from Simon Kinberg, and other projects from Taika Waititi and Dave Filoni.
