The Star Wars galaxy has always been defined by its astonishing variety of planets, each one offering distinct environments and cultures that enrich the epic space opera. From the twin-sunned deserts of Tatooine to the vibrant underwater cities of Naboo, the frozen wastelands of Hoth, and the sprawling urban megastructure of Coruscant, these worlds have captivated audiences for decades. Expanding this beloved roster, the upcoming film The Mandalorian and Grogu introduces yet another new planet to the Star Wars universe.
The new planet, known as Shakari, was detailed during a recent press preview event, Polygon reported. A crime-ridden city planet, Shakari draws heavy inspiration from Prohibition-era Chicago, complete with a moody atmosphere of constant rainfall and an absence of sunlight that creates a perpetual sense of night. This setting evokes the gritty gangster films of the 1920s and 1930s, bringing a fresh noir sensibility to the Star Wars saga. Production designer Andrew L. Jones described the world in detail at the event, highlighting how it integrates classic Star Wars design elements with this dark, rain-soaked urban landscape. The planet even features a new blaster weapon modeled after the iconic Tommy gun, blending familiar sci-fi aesthetics with fantastical twists suitable for the franchise.
Shakari is also notably home to an unnamed alien character portrayed by Martin Scorsese, who operates a food truck selling sandwiches on the planet. While the character's name remains unknown, it has been confirmed that he is an Ardennian, the same species as Rio Durant from Solo: A Star Wars Story. Jon Favreau, who not only voiced Rio Durant in that earlier film but also serves as the director of The Mandalorian and Grogu, shared this detail in a recent interview with Fandango. Favreau has additionally hinted at incorporating a high-stakes chase sequence inspired by the classic film The French Connection, which could very well unfold across Shakari's shadowy streets.
This revelation adds an exciting layer of cinematic prestige to the project, as Scorsese's involvement—however brief—connects the Star Wars franchise to one of Hollywood's most acclaimed directors. The food truck operation suggests a street-level view of life on Shakari, potentially offering humorous or character-driven moments amidst what appears to be a more action-oriented storyline for the titular duo. As The Mandalorian and Grogu shifts the adventures of Din Djarin and his young companion from the small screen to the big screen, locations like Shakari promise to deliver visually striking backdrops that feel both innovative and true to the Star Wars tradition of world-building.
Beyond its visual and thematic appeal, the introduction of Shakari underscores Lucasfilm's commitment to exploring new corners of the galaxy far, far away. While previous live-action projects have revisited established planets or introduced fleeting new ones, this crime-infested world seems poised to play a substantial role in the narrative. The blend of gangster-era aesthetics with Star Wars technology and lore creates opportunities for compelling storytelling, from underworld dealings to daring escapes through rain-lashed alleyways.
Here's the latest trailer for The Mandalorian and Grogu:
The Mandalorian and Grogu is scheduled to arrive in theaters on May 22, 2026.
