
Ryan Gosling's Star Wars Film Before Rey's: Why the Delay?
Why is Ryan Gosling's Star Wars movie, *Starfighter*, slated to release before Daisy Ridley's *New Jedi Order*, even though the latter was announced much earlier? The announcement of *Starfighter* starring Ryan Gosling at Star Wars Celebration 2025 came as a surprise. While rumors of Gosling's involvement had circulated, the timing raises questions about the status of Rey's film.
The release date for *Starfighter* is set for May 28, 2027, making it the next Star Wars movie after *The Mandalorian and Grogu*. This announcement has fueled speculation about *New Jedi Order*, with some rumors suggesting delays or even cancellation. Why is Gosling's film taking precedence when Ridley's project was unveiled two years ago?
Rey's Movie Announced Years Ago
At Star Wars Celebration 2023, Lucasfilm confirmed Daisy Ridley's return as Rey in a new film set 15 years after *The Rise of Skywalker*. This announcement signaled a shift away from the Skywalker saga. Since then, Ridley has faced constant questions about the film's progress. However, progress on *New Jedi Order* appears to be slow. The film has already undergone a writer change, with George Nolfi replacing Steven Knight. Furthermore, Ridley has stated she has yet to see a script. The lack of on Rey's movie at Star Wars Celebration 2025 is also concerning, especially considering Ridley's prominent role at the 2023 event.
The Stakes Are High for Rey The timing of these releases likely reflects the baggage associated with Rey's film. The sequel trilogy remains a controversial part of the Star Wars franchise, and *New Jedi Order* is bound to face scrutiny. Regardless of its quality, the film will likely encounter some form of backlash.
Despite potential negativity, Lucasfilm reportedly views Rey as a valuable asset for the future of the franchise. The stakes are simply lower for Ryan Gosling's *Starfighter*, which has been confirmed as a standalone film. The success of the franchise will not rely on the success of *Starfighter* in the same way that *New Jedi Order* will. *New Jedi Order* will establish the franchise's new Jedi Order, making it a crucial film.
A New Jedi Order is Inevitable Regardless of whether it's Rey's movie or another project, the introduction of a new Jedi Order feels inevitable. While Star Wars has expanded beyond the Jedi and Sith, the Jedi will always remain an integral part of the Star Wars universe. It has been decades since a full-fledged Jedi Order existed within the Star Wars canon, and a return is long overdue. Hopefully, this return will be through Rey's film. Taking the time to develop the story is a positive sign. Rumors suggest that multiple story possibilities are being considered for Rey. While the announcement of *Starfighter* was shocking, the timing of these films appears to be a calculated decision by Lucasfilm.