‘Star Wars: Starfighter’ Star Ryan Gosling Reveals Why He Chose the Franchise

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Ryan Gosling is returning to science fiction with Project Hail Mary, directed by Phil Lord and Chris Miller. He’s recently discussed why he decided to join Star Wars after largely avoiding big franchises throughout his career. Gosling has earned critical acclaim for his work in films like Half Nelson, Blue Valentine, Drive, and La La Land. While he’s taken on larger projects like Blade Runner 2049 and Barbie, those were directed by respected filmmakers – Denis Villeneuve and Greta Gerwig – and weren’t part of ongoing cinematic universes.

Ryan Gosling is preparing to join a major franchise for the first time, starring in the 2027 film Star Wars: Starfighter, directed by Shawn Levy, known for Deadpool & Wolverine. After previously steering clear of big franchises, what made Gosling decide to join the Star Wars universe? Surprisingly, it wasn’t the franchise’s reputation, but the opportunity to work with director Shawn Levy. In an interview with Gizmodo, Gosling explained:

I initially hesitated because Shawn’s approach and the script didn’t quite resonate with me. Looking back, I’m happy I waited, as the project feels like something special – a rare and worthwhile opportunity, much like a book that’s been years in the making.


Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

Ryan Gosling has been offered several famous roles throughout his career. In 2014, both Marvel and DC considered him for superhero movies planned for 2016. He was a strong contender for the role of Doctor Strange, but Benedict Cumberbatch eventually got the part. Warner Bros. wanted Gosling to play the Joker in Suicide Squad, but he turned it down, and Jared Leto ended up playing the character. More recently, Gosling expressed interest in playing Ghost Rider in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, perhaps as a nod to his wife, Eva Mendes, who previously starred in the 2007 Ghost Rider film.

Details about the plot of the new Star Wars movie, Starfighter, are still limited. The film takes place five years after The Rise of Skywalker and will be the first to delve into the story after the sequel trilogy. Ryan Gosling will play a mentor to a young boy, potentially his nephew, who will be portrayed by Flynn Gray. The cast also features Matt Smith, Mia Goth, Aaron Pierre, Amy Adams, Jamael Westman, Simon Bird, and Daniel Igns.

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The new film, Starfighter, will be released in theaters on May 27, 2027. Recent reports indicate Disney is worried about how well The Mandalorian and Grogu will perform at the box office, but they are very happy with the progress of Star Wars: Starfighter. Executives believe director Levy has successfully brought back the fun and excitement that defines the Star Wars franchise. Although Starfighter was originally planned as a one-time story, the expansive Star Wars universe allows for the possibility of Ryan Gosling returning as his character in future films – something the actor hasn’t done with any of his previous roles. If Starfighter is successful, Ryan Gosling could become a regular face in the Star Wars galaxy.

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2026-02-28 01:19