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Credit: LucasfilmA beloved Star Wars icon might be taking a back seat in a way no one expected. In a galaxy filled with lightsabers, starships, and legendary heroes, one tiny green creature has managed to capture hearts like no other. But with less than a year to go before The Mandalorian & Grogu movie hits theaters, it seems Grogu’s days as Din Djarin’s one-and-only co-pilot may be numbered.
Fans aren’t just talking about it—they’re buzzing with theories, speculation, and a little bit of shock. A new character is stepping into the spotlight, and it could mean a significant shift for one of the most adored duos in modern Star Wars storytelling.
How Star Wars Became a Streaming Powerhouse
It’s no secret that Star Wars has become one of the most recognizable entertainment franchises in history. What began with a single film in 1977 has exploded into decades of storytelling, creating a fandom that’s as passionate as it is massive. When Star Wars officially entered the streaming era, it didn’t just adapt—it thrived.
Over the past few years, fans have been treated to a growing lineup of series on Disney+, including The Book of Boba Fett, Ahsoka, and Andor. Each new show has expanded the galaxy far, far away in ways that continue to surprise both longtime fans and newcomers alike. But among all these shows, one title stands above the rest in popularity.
The Mandalorian’s Meteoric Rise
When The Mandalorian debuted in 2019, it didn’t just become another Star Wars series—it became the series. Pedro Pascal’s Din Djarin and his pint-sized companion Grogu (lovingly dubbed “Baby Yoda” by the internet) quickly won over audiences around the world. The show’s blend of gritty bounty hunter action, heartfelt storytelling, and cinematic visuals created something magical.
Its success has been so massive that Lucasfilm has taken the next big step: a whole theatrical film. The highly anticipated The Mandalorian & Grogu is set to arrive in theaters on May 22, 2026. Directed by co-creator Jon Favreau, the film will bring Din and Grogu’s journey to the big screen for the first time, promising a new chapter that will feel bigger and bolder than ever.
A Controversial Shift on the Horizon
Of course, Star Wars isn’t immune to controversy. Over the years, Lucasfilm has made numerous creative decisions that have divided the fandom. This latest one involves Grogu himself.
According to recent buzz surrounding the upcoming film, Din Djarin won’t just have Grogu by his side this time. The Mandalorian has a new partner set to debut in the upcoming The Mandalorian & Grogu movie. Fans already know the film will feature an out-of-this-world adventure, directed by Jon Favreau. The movie is reported to bring back familiar faces and introduce several new ones.
And among those new faces is an astonishing character.
Rotta the Hutt Joins the Crew
One of the most unexpected returning characters is none other than Rotta the Hutt, first introduced as a baby in Star Wars: The Clone Wars. This time, the grown-up son of the infamous Jabba will be played by Jeremy Allen White, known for his acclaimed role in The Bear.
Appearing on The Graham Norton Show, White hinted at what’s ahead for his character. He revealed that Rotta will be “running around for a lot of the movie together” with Pedro Pascal’s Din Djarin. That statement alone was enough to send Star Wars fans into a frenzy.
For the first time, Mando may be sharing the spotlight—and possibly his bond—with another sidekick.
What That Means for Grogu
This revelation strongly suggests that Rotta won’t just be making a cameo. He’ll be at Din’s side for at least part of their intergalactic journey. And for fans who have grown attached to the father-and-son dynamic between Mando and Grogu, this shift feels like a major change.
In the film’s first trailer, several sequences show Grogu and Din apart, hinting that Grogu may embark on his own subplot while Din and Rotta take on the central mission. Whether this is temporary or a sign of things to come remains unclear, but fans have noticed.
Rotta’s involvement isn’t a small addition either. Early teases have shown a gladiator arena sequence where Rotta appears to play a central role. His presence in such a big action set piece signals that Lucasfilm is positioning him as a significant figure in the story.
The Return of the Hutt Legacy
Rotta’s return carries weight beyond just a character swap. The last time audiences saw him, he was just an infant kidnapped by Asajj Ventress. Now, decades later, the character has grown into what’s described as a “ripped” heir to Jabba’s crime empire. That alone is a massive twist for longtime fans.
Jeremy Allen White’s casting also adds another layer of intrigue. Known for intense, layered performances, his version of Rotta could bring a new energy to the story. And if Din Djarin is aligning with a Hutt—even temporarily—that suggests a morally gray mission, possibly tied to the criminal underworld.
A Plot Cloaked in Mystery
Lucasfilm has kept official plot details close to the vest. So far, the most anyone knows is that the Mandalorian and Grogu will face down Imperial remnants, massive AT-ATs, and a brutal gladiator fight.
Some fans are already speculating that the story could revolve around a high-stakes heist involving the Hutt syndicate’s vault. If Rotta is part of Mando’s team, he may be either leading the charge or playing both sides. And if that’s the case, Grogu’s role may be more independent than ever before.
Fans React to Grogu’s “Replacement”
The word “replacement” has hit a nerve. For years, Grogu has been the beating heart of The Mandalorian. His bond with Din isn’t just part of the show—it is the show for many fans. Introducing a new partner-in-crime could create exciting new storytelling opportunities, but it also risks alienating some of the fandom who see Grogu as irreplaceable.
Online chatter has been intense, with some fans excited for fresh dynamics and others worried that the series could lose its emotional core. Whether this decision is temporary or something bigger remains to be seen, but one thing’s for sure: Lucasfilm is making a bold move.
The Road to May 2026
As the countdown to May 22, 2026, continues, anticipation for The Mandalorian & Grogu is only growing. Jon Favreau’s return to the director’s chair, combined with Pedro Pascal’s beloved portrayal of Mando, promises an epic cinematic experience.
Whether fans love or loathe Rotta’s addition, it’s clear this film won’t be playing it safe. Grogu might not be gone, but his place at Mando’s side may never be quite the same again.