A new chapter of Star Wars begins at Disneyland’s Galaxy’s Edge

Star Wars expands at Disneyland with Luke Skywalker, Mando, Grogu, and immersive shows.

: A whole new phase unfolds at Disneyland's Galaxy’s Edge with the arrival of Luke Skywalker, enhancing the park’s connection with the beloved Star Wars universe. Disney has gradually introduced figures from Disney+ series like Ahsoka and The Mandalorian, much to fans' delight. The new 'Shadows of Memory: A Skywalker Saga' show explores family history tied to the land's tales through Tohan Lege and his droid, Bard. Future inclusions and immersive experiences involve Star Wars' broader narratives while keeping popular elements like Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run.

Since March 28, 2025, Disneyland's Galaxy’s Edge welcomes Star Wars enthusiasts to experience the presence of Master Luke Skywalker at Batuu. This marks a significant shift from the original timeline set between 'Star Wars: The Last Jedi' and 'Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker,' incorporating more characters from the extensive universe, such as Ahsoka, Boba Fett, Fennec Shand, Sabine Wren, and Hera. The integration of Din Djarin (the Mandalorian) and Grogu showcases a response to public enthusiasm for stories beyond the sequel trilogy, a development eagerly anticipated during the opening of this year's Season of the Force, running until May 11. Conversations with Matt Martin from Lucasfilm and Michael Serna of Disney Live Entertainment emphasize evolving narratives and responses to fan demands within the Black Spire Outpost that align with ongoing storylines from Disney+ Lucasfilm shows.

Michael Serna describes the evolution of Galaxy’s Edge akin to other attractions, stating, "Some things come and go, shows open, attractions come and go." Highlighting the dynamic adjustments in experiences, he addressed how favorites like the Mandalorian's storyline are central to the park's growing appeal. The park's storytelling approach, noted by Matt Martin, introduces Tohan Lege, first heard narrating tales via fireworks, who now features in 'Shadows of Memory: A Skywalker Saga'. This in-park character, developed collaboratively with Lucasfilm, aims to narrate Skywalker’s mythological narrative, bridging ongoing cinematic and in-park events seamlessly with a modern mythos approach.

Tohan Lege, co-created with Lucasfilm and sharply tuned to Disney’s entertainment goals, partners with an R1-series astromech droid named Bard to project illuminating stories on Galaxy’s Edge. Matt Martin mentions, "Having an in-universe character to do that storytelling is just a kind of a perfect bridge," reflecting on how storytelling traditions resembling ancient oral practices beautifully manifest in the futuristic context of Star Wars. This creatively connects generations of followers on a mythical journey, situated aesthetically amongst Batuu’s dramatized narratives and evokes historical resonance that fans find authentic and exciting.

Further intrigue centers around potential adaptations to the Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run ride, with some anticipation tied to the upcoming Mandalorian film release. While Disney's David Serna teases possibilities without divulging details beyond information shared during the South by Southwest conference, Matt Martin emphasizes maintaining authenticity: "we will be in the Millennium Falcon…in a time where Han Solo owns that ship." The mystery surrounding these enhancements fuels anticipation for deeper engagement within these cornerstone experiences, suspected to enrich Disneyland’s compelling narrative labyrinth that aficionados treasure.

Future prospects entertain expansion suggestions from Florida’s defunct 'Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser,' with Disney expressing interest in transferring lessons learned from Orlando’s experiences into Batuu. The goal remains creating adaptive, immersive experiences, with versatility in storytelling and recreational offerings aligning with the vast potential of the Star Wars universe. These dimensions offer visitors not only nostalgia but new, richly detailed tales that intertwine past favorites with evolving storylines.

Sources: Disney Experiences, io9, South by Southwest

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