Lucasfilm Quietly Confirms Controversial Grogu Replacement in ‘The Mandalorian’

The galaxy is buzzing with rumors—and this time, they involve one of its smallest and most beloved stars. Grogu, the tiny green force-wielder who stole hearts from the moment he waddled on-screen, might not have the same role fans have grown used to. With The Mandalorian & Grogu film less than a year away, Lucasfilm seems to be giving Mando a brand-new partner, leaving many fans uneasy about what this means for their favorite duo.

Fans have taken to forums, social media, and convention chatter to speculate. Could this really be the beginning of a new era for Din Djarin?

Star Wars’ Streaming Reign

Star Wars has thrived for decades, but its modern momentum has exploded since it entered the streaming era. Disney+ gave the franchise a new playground, bringing audiences hits like Ahsoka, Andor, and The Book of Boba Fett. These series didn’t just expand the lore—they turned the galaxy into a living, breathing storytelling universe.

But no show carried the torch quite like The Mandalorian. When it debuted in 2019, it instantly became the face of the franchise’s streaming success.

How Mando and Grogu Took Over the Galaxy

Pedro Pascal’s stoic bounty hunter and Grogu’s wide-eyed charm turned the show into a global phenomenon. The balance of action, emotion, and adventure struck a chord with fans and critics alike. It wasn’t long before the series became the crown jewel of Disney’s streaming empire.

That success now sets the stage for a massive leap. The Mandalorian & Grogu is scheduled to hit theaters on May 22, 2026. Directed by Jon Favreau, the film promises bigger battles, deeper storytelling, and new characters who could reshape the story entirely.

A Surprising New Player Enters

Lucasfilm has never shied away from shaking things up. And in the upcoming film, the shake-up involves Mando’s loyal co-pilot. Reports have confirmed that the bounty hunter will have “a new sidekick” alongside him in this intergalactic adventure.

That sidekick is none other than Rotta the Hutt—Jabba’s grown-up son. First introduced as a baby in Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Rotta will return in a much different form. He’s being brought to life by Jeremy Allen White, who hinted during an appearance on The Graham Norton Show that his character will be “running around for a lot of the movie” with Pedro Pascal’s Din Djarin.

What This Means for Grogu

That small quote sparked a massive wave of speculation. If Rotta is stepping into the spotlight, where does that leave Grogu? The trailer already hints at moments where Mando and Grogu are separated, possibly setting up their own parallel storylines. Meanwhile, Rotta seems to be by Mando’s side during major action sequences—including a rumored gladiator arena fight.

The idea of sharing or shifting that emotional bond is a hard pill for some fans to swallow. For years, Grogu has been the soul of the story.

The Hutt Legacy Returns

Rotta’s comeback is more than just a fun Easter egg. He represents a new link to the criminal underworld of Tatooine. Once a kidnapped infant, he’s now grown into a “ripped” heir to Jabba’s empire—a very different kind of ally. His involvement hints at morally gray territory for Din Djarin, something that could complicate their dynamic.

And with White playing the character, fans expect Rotta to be more than just comic relief.

A Risky Creative Move

Lucasfilm hasn’t revealed the whole plot, only teasing that the Mandalorian and Grogu will go on an action-packed journey, filled with high-stakes battles and Imperial remnants. Rumors of a daring heist involving the Hutt syndicate’s vault have only added fuel to the fire.

Fans are split. Some are curious to see new dynamics, while others feel uneasy about anything threatening Grogu’s central role.

Countdown to the Big Screen

As the May 2026 release inches closer, all eyes are on how Lucasfilm balances nostalgia with new storytelling. Rotta’s arrival could add a thrilling new layer—or fracture the emotional heart of the franchise.

For now, one thing’s clear: Grogu’s place in Mando’s story is about to change, and fans are bracing themselves for what comes next.