Jon Favreau to Headline CinemaCon as Star Wars Returns with The Mandalorian and Grogu

Jon Favreau, the director and producer of the upcoming film *Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu*, is set to headline the Creative Community Luncheon at CinemaCon 2026. This event will take place on April 16 at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, coinciding with the final day of the convention. Favreau's appearance will precede the Walt Disney Studios presentation scheduled for 2:30 PM PT. The luncheon is sponsored by Fathom Entertainment and D-BOX Technologies, and it has previously featured notable figures such as Martin Scorsese, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Patty Jenkins.

Deadline HollywoodHollywood ReporterJon Favreau Headlines CinemaCon as Star Wars Returns to Theaters With Mandalorian and GroguStar Wars ‘The Mandalorian and Grogu’ Action-Adventure Film Stars Pedro Pascal – Trailer and Release Date – Movie VineWhy The Mandalorian and Grogu’s Jon Favreau Compares Rotta the Hutt To Adonis Creed

*The Mandalorian and Grogu* is poised to be a significant release, marking the first Star Wars film in theaters since *Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker* in 2019. The film, which stars Pedro Pascal as the titular Mandalorian and Sigourney Weaver as Colonel Ward, is set to open in theaters worldwide on May 22, 2026. Favreau, alongside Kathleen Kennedy, Dave Filoni, and Ian Bryce, produced the film, with music composed by Ludwig Göransson.

Star Wars ‘The Mandalorian and Grogu’ Action-Adventure Film Stars Pedro Pascal – Trailer and Release Date – Movie VineDeadline HollywoodJon Favreau Headlines CinemaCon as Star Wars Returns to Theaters With Mandalorian and GroguWhy The Mandalorian and Grogu’s Jon Favreau Compares Rotta the Hutt To Adonis CreedHollywood Reporter

Set in the aftermath of the fall of the Empire, *The Mandalorian and Grogu* follows the legendary bounty hunter Din Djarin and his young apprentice Grogu as they navigate a galaxy still fraught with danger from Imperial remnants. The film is based on characters created by George Lucas and features a screenplay co-written by Favreau, Filoni, and Noah Kloor.

Star Wars ‘The Mandalorian and Grogu’ Action-Adventure Film Stars Pedro Pascal – Trailer and Release Date – Movie VineWhy The Mandalorian and Grogu’s Jon Favreau Compares Rotta the Hutt To Adonis CreedDeadline HollywoodJon Favreau Headlines CinemaCon as Star Wars Returns to Theaters With Mandalorian and Grogu

While excitement surrounds the film's release, some industry observers have expressed concerns about the reliance on established franchises like Star Wars to drive box office success. Critics argue that the film industry should focus on original storytelling rather than continuously revisiting familiar narratives.

Jon Favreau Headlines CinemaCon as Star Wars Returns to Theaters With Mandalorian and Grogu

Michael O’Leary, President and CEO of Cinema United, emphasized the significance of Favreau's appearance, stating, "Anticipation for a new Star Wars movie on the big screen is sky high, making this an incredible way to kick off the summer movie season." He acknowledged the event as a unique opportunity for attendees to hear from one of the industry's most talented filmmakers.

Hollywood Reporter

• “Anticipation for a new Star Wars movie on the big screen is sky high, making this an incredible way to kick off the summer movie season,” — Michael O’Leary, President and CEO of Cinema United.

Hollywood Reporter

• “When you're trying to establish yourself and your name is famous, when you're Jabba the Hutt's kid, what does that do?” — Jon Favreau, Director of *The Mandalorian and Grogu*.

Why The Mandalorian and Grogu’s Jon Favreau Compares Rotta the Hutt To Adonis Creed

Following the luncheon, the focus will shift to the Walt Disney Studios presentation, where further details about *The Mandalorian and Grogu* and other upcoming projects are expected to be revealed. As the film approaches its release date, industry professionals will be keenly observing its impact on the box office and the broader cinematic landscape.

Star Wars ‘The Mandalorian and Grogu’ Action-Adventure Film Stars Pedro Pascal – Trailer and Release Date – Movie Vine