The Mandalorian is arguably the most popular Star Wars series to emerge from Disney taking the space opera franchise to the streaming arena. Starring Pedro Pascal in the lead role, the series explores the post-Return of the Jedi timeline in the franchise.
The series is expected to merge with some of the other post-Return of the Jedi shows in a feature film directed by Dave Filoni. During an interview, Filoni spoke about his upcoming film and whether it would serve as a finale to The Mandalorian. Filoni’s comments suggest that Pedro Pascal’s character could be killed off in the film, and here is why.
Dave Filoni Hints The Mandalorian Will Continue Without Pedro Pascal
The Mandalorian stars Pedro Pascal in the lead role of Din Djarin, a bounty hunter from Mandalore, who finds and adopts a force-sensitive child, Grogu. While the series primarily focuses on the bond between Djarin and Grogu, it also extensively features aspects of the Mandalorian culture.
During an interview with IGN, Lucasfilm’s chief creative officer Dave Filoni was asked whether his upcoming film would serve as a finale to The Mandalorian. In response, Filoni turned down the possibility.
The idea that after Return of the Jedi there was a New Republic, and that the heroes still had to defend that Republic from the remnant Empire is a very old idea that we brought into the first season of the Mandalorian. Because it’s what was always there.
Filoni made the above statement, explaining the core idea behind the series, and suggesting it wouldn’t end with the film.
Given that The Mandalorian set the stage for spin-off shows like Ahsoka and The Book of Boba Fett, Filoni’s upcoming film, which is slated to bring together characters from all the shows, felt like a natural conclusion to the story of Din Djarin.
The Mandalorian Could Go On With a New Character Taking the Mantle
Filoni’s comments reinforce the idea that The Mandalorian is not just about Pascal’s character but about the titular race of bounty hunters. However, with Pascal’s other commitments and his character’s arc approaching its crescendo, it might be best to kill him off.
In the past, Filoni has demonstrated an ability to extract emotional moments through major character deaths. Hence, Din Djarin’s death could form the emotional core of Filoni’s upcoming film. However, as Filoni hinted The Mandalorian itself could continue, albeit with a different protagonist.
Fans have long speculated that the show’s title itself hints at other protagonists taking Din Djarin’s place. The show’s third season extensively featured Bo-Katan in a supporting role, alongside Djarin, and her popularity among the fanbase makes her an ideal replacement for the lead character.
Similarly, the Armorer also makes a strong case for replacing Djarin as the lead because of her place within the Mandalorian community. Lastly, the series could move towards an ensemble cast for its latter installments, especially if Pascal’s character is killed off, allowing a diverse group of characters to take center stage.
The Mandalorian is streaming on Disney+.
