The House of the Dragon actor joins Ryan Gosling and Mia Goth in Lucasfilm’s next galaxy adventure.
A New Dark Side Emerges
August 6, 2025: British star Matt Smith, known for Doctor Who and House of the Dragon, has officially joined the cast of Star Wars: Starfighter in a villainous role. He’ll share the screen with lead actor Ryan Gosling and fellow antagonist Mia Goth in the standalone film directed by Shawn Levy.
A Fresh Chapter in the Star Wars Universe
Starfighter is set approximately five years after The Rise of Skywalker. It will not tie into the main Skywalker saga, but expand the universe with all-new characters and locations. The screenplay is by Jonathan Tropper, a longtime collaborator with Levy. Production is expected to begin in fall 2025, with the theatrical premiere set for May 28, 2027.
Two Villains, One Mission
While details remain under wraps, Smith’s character is described as one of two formidable pursuers targeting Gosling’s character, who is tasked with protecting a youthful charge. Mia Goth plays the other antagonist, hinting at a dynamic duo of danger that sets an intense cat‑and‑mouse tone for the film.
Smith’s Long-Awaited Star Wars Debut
This marks Smith’s official entrance into the Star Wars universe after earlier rumors—and a casting in The Rise of Skywalker—that ultimately didn’t materialize. He is now firmly onboard in a new capacity and poised to make a lasting impression as one of the franchise’s next memorable villains.
Why It Matters
| Element | Significance |
|---|---|
| High-Profile Casting | A‑list talent reinforces Starfighter’s ambitious tone and mainstream appeal |
| Standalone Story | Moves beyond legacy trilogy ties, forging a fresh direction in the era after Episode IX |
| Legacy Revival | Continues Lucasfilm’s strategy of expanding the galaxy with new talent and bold storytelling |
Matt Smith’s casting adds a thrilling edge to Star Wars: Starfighter, positioning him alongside Ryan Gosling and Mia Goth as a central threat in the galaxy’s newest epic. With filming on the horizon and a May 2027 release, fans can expect a tale of action, intrigue, and interstellar pursuit thanks to Lucasfilm’s expanding universe.
Published by HOLR Magazine