Expectation surrounding Star Wars: Starfighter is growing as its release date, scheduled for May 28, 2027, approaches. Interest intensified after Lucasfilm confirmed during New York Comic-Con (NYCC) that the film will have an extended version of its story. However, this expansion will not reach movie theaters, but will instead be released in novel format.
The announcement is significant at a key moment for the franchise. Following the lower-than-expected commercial performance of The Mandalorian & Grogu, the industry is closely watching Starfighter as the production tasked with opening a new narrative chapter set after the events of the sequel trilogy, which concluded in Episode IX.
An extended novel, not a different theatrical cut
Lucasfilm Publishing confirmed that the expanded version of the story will arrive via a novel written by Delilah S. Dawson, an author known for titles such as Phasma and Galaxy's Edge: Black Spire. The book will go on sale on June 22 and will offer additional scenes and details that will not be shown on the big screen.
Among the new features, the publication will introduce an original character known as The Rock Pirate of Kaneen, who will not be part of the cinematic footage but will enrich the narrative context of the story.
The profile of Kade Auberon, Ryan Gosling’s character
Director Shawn Levy explained during the presentation the political landscape in which the film takes place, marked by the absence of any central authority in the galaxy.
According to Levy, it is a moment without any kind of law enforcement or established government, where all characters are looking to survive as best they can.
The director also detailed the origin of Kade Auberon, played by Ryan Gosling, describing him as a character from the less fortunate side of the galaxy, without privileges or comforts. According to Levy, Auberon has a firm character and a working-class background, and his story is triggered when he crosses paths with the fastest starfighter ever built.
Creative team and cast of Star Wars: Starfighter
The film is directed by Shawn Levy from a screenplay by Jonathan Tropper. Executive production is handled by Levy alongside Kathleen Kennedy, Ryan Gosling, Dan Levine, Mary McLaglen, and Josh McLaglen.
The main cast includes:
- Ryan Gosling as Kade Auberon
- Matt Smith
- Mia Goth
- Aaron Pierre
- Amy Adams
- Flynn Gray
- Simon Bird
- Jamael Westman
- Daniel Ings
Literature as a tool to expand the new canon
The strategy of releasing an extended novelization is not new to the franchise. Lucasfilm previously used this resource with The Rise of Skywalker, taking advantage of the printed format to delve into the mythology, character motivations, and political context of the story without overloading the film's pacing.
With the incorporation of elements such as space pirates and unexplored regions of the galaxy, Lucasfilm seeks to build the foundations of this new era situated after the Skywalker Saga, in a period without the Republic or the First Order as power references.
A decisive project for the future of Star Wars in theaters
The release of Star Wars: Starfighter represents a turning point for Lucasfilm, which seeks to diversify its stories beyond the Skywalker dynasty and the Clone Wars era. The commitment to a tone focused on survival, space combat, and characters of humble origin aims to attract both the franchise's regular audience and new viewers.
The commercial result of this film will be decisive in defining the direction of future Star Wars film productions and the viability of exploring narrative stages far from the original saga.
A technically large-scale shoot
The production involved a considerable technical deployment to recreate space combat with a more realistic approach, combining practical effects, physical models, and cutting-edge digital technology. Lucasfilm is confident that Shawn Levy's vision, added to the appeal of an international cast led by Ryan Gosling and Amy Adams, will help revive public interest in seeing Star Wars in movie theaters.
Star Wars: Starfighter will hit theaters worldwide on May 28, 2027.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Star Wars: Starfighter released in theaters?
The film will arrive in theaters on May 28, 2027.
Will the extended version of Starfighter be seen in theaters?
No. The extended version will arrive only in novel format, written by Delilah S. Dawson, and will not be screened in theaters.
Who is writing the extended novel for Star Wars: Starfighter?
The author is Delilah S. Dawson, known for previous Star Wars works such as Phasma and Galaxy's Edge: Black Spire.
What new character appears in the novel and not in the movie?
The novel will introduce a character named The Rock Pirate of Kaneen, exclusive to the literary material.
Who is directing Star Wars: Starfighter?
The film is directed by Shawn Levy, with a screenplay by Jonathan Tropper.
Who are the protagonists of the film?
The main cast includes Ryan Gosling as Kade Auberon, along with Matt Smith, Mia Goth, Aaron Pierre, and Amy Adams, among others.
In what period of Star Wars history is the film set?
The plot takes place after the events of the sequel trilogy, in a galaxy without a central government following the disappearance of the Republic and the First Order.
