Shawn Levy to Direct Star Wars Film Starring Ryan Gosling

Shawn Levy, known for directing Deadpool & Wolverine, is poised to helm a new Star Wars film, with Ryan Gosling in talks to star.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Levy is in negotiations with Gosling for a leading role in this upcoming Star Wars project. Levy has been developing the film since 2022, with a script in progress since last year. He is teaming up again with Jonathan Tropper, the screenwriter behind This Is Where I Leave You and The Adam Project, both directed by Levy.

Details about Levy’s Star Wars film remain under wraps, with no information on Gosling’s potential character or the era in which the story is set. It is confirmed, however, that the film will not tie into the Skywalker Saga.

The Hollywood Reporter notes that the movie is intended as a standalone project, not part of a trilogy.

Every Upcoming Star Wars Movie and TV Show

Gosling’s potential involvement has accelerated the project’s timeline. Levy was initially slated to direct a boy band film featuring Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman, but if Gosling signs on, The Hollywood Reporter indicates that this Star Wars film will take priority, with production expected to start this fall.

Star Wars is navigating a transitional phase. Following the cancellation of The Acolyte, Disney Plus recently launched Skeleton Crew, which concluded its first season. On the film front, Dave Filoni’s The Mandalorian and Grogu wrapped production in December, aiming for a May 22, 2026 release. Additionally, a new trilogy centered on Daisy Ridley’s Rey is in development.

A release date for Levy’s Star Wars film has not been announced, pending confirmation of its progress this year. For a full look at what’s next for the Star Wars universe, explore our 2025 Star Wars preview.