As Star Wars returns to theaters on May 22, 2026 with The Mandalorian & Grogu, what should be a triumphant cinematic comeback for the galaxy-spanning franchise has instead rocked online fan communities with intense controversy and dramatic cast decisions that no one saw coming.
1. The Mandalorian Goes Big — But Some Fan Favorites Go Missing
The Mandalorian & Grogu marks the franchise’s first major theatrical release since 2019, sending beloved characters from Disney+’s streaming era onto the biggest possible stage. Pedro Pascal returns as Din Djarin alongside Grogu, with Hollywood veteran Sigourney Weaver joining the cast in a mysterious new role.
But in a move that has ignited intense online debate, Lucasfilm has seemingly ditched several familiar faces from the fan-favorite Disney+ series — including reportedly sidelining characters like Boba Fett and Fennec Shand, and distancing the movie from other previously central narratives.
Fans on social media and discussion boards are split — some praise the bold narrative reset, while others argue that the exclusion of key characters undermines the emotional continuity fans have grown attached to.
2. Social Media Erupts Over Grogu’s Role and Story Focus
Perhaps the most controversial topic? Grogu’s prominence in the film. Early production leaks and speculation suggest that Lucasfilm may be shifting narrative focus more toward gritty Mandalorian action, possibly reducing Grogu’s screen time compared with what fans expected.
This has seeded heated debate online, with some followers calling the decision “a betrayal of the heart of the Mandoverse,” while others believe it could elevate the franchise to new cinematic heights. The controversy has only grown as teaser clips and promotional material continue to surface without clarifying Grogu’s exact role.
3. Nostalgia vs. New Era — Fandom Divided
The May 22, 2026 release comes amid broader discussion about Star Wars’ future under Disney, including the direction of new films and the franchise’s evolving identity. Lucasfilm continues to schedule additional projects, expanding the universe with both classic and new storylines.
Legacy fans argue that recent choices — from character exclusions to tonal shifts — risk alienating core supporters who grew up with the original trilogy and classic storytelling. Meanwhile, newer viewers and some industry voices see these same changes as necessary reinvention to keep the saga relevant for a modern era.
4. The Broader Star Wars Universe Is Changing
This theatrical movie is not the only big shift. With ongoing development on multiple Star Wars projects — from television series to feature films — 2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for the franchise’s future. Fans are watching closely not only for what’s on screen on May 22, but for what these decisions mean for the Star Wars galaxy long term.