Ryan Gosling’s upcoming Star Wars movie has introduced a significant casting choice by adding Matt Smith, famed for his role in House of the Dragon, to the ensemble. The film, Starfighter, directed by Shawn Levy, is set to begin filming in fall 2025 and will feature Smith portraying a villain opposite Gosling’s protagonist.
Matt Smith Joins Ryan Gosling in Starfighter as an Antagonist
Matt Smith, known for his acclaimed performances as the Eleventh Doctor in Doctor Who and Daemon Targaryen in HBO’s House of the Dragon, is now officially joining the cast of Starfighter. The movie, led by Ryan Gosling, will cast Smith as an enemy figure, likely working alongside actress Mia Goth, who was previously announced as a villain in the story.
The plot reportedly revolves around Gosling’s character protecting a young ward from malevolent forces, with Smith’s villainous role adding a direct challenge to Gosling’s protagonist. As confirmed by industry reports, Smith is among the limited trio of cast members confirmed so far, including Gosling and Goth. The film is expected to offer a fresh storyline, standing apart from established Star Wars narratives, as director Shawn Levy has clarified that Starfighter will be a standalone project set in a previously unexplored era within the franchise.
Smith’s Near Miss with Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker
Although Starfighter will mark Matt Smith’s official Star Wars debut, his connection with the franchise dates back several years. In a 2021 interview on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Smith revealed he was once close to joining the 2019 sequel The Rise of Skywalker but ultimately did not appear in the film.
During that conversation, Smith addressed his near casting in the movie, explaining how his proposed character was eventually removed from the script. The cancellation of that role prevented his participation in what was then viewed as a major franchise milestone.
“We were close to me being in [Rise of Skywalker], but then it just never quite happened. I think the thing they were thinking of me for, eventually, the part became obsolete, and they didn’t need it. And so I never got to be in Star Wars.”
—Matt Smith, Actor
Smith also hinted that the character he was considered for would have had significant narrative importance, but he did not disclose further details. After this missed opportunity, Smith’s casting in Starfighter represents a long-awaited chance to finally become part of the Star Wars universe.
What Starfighter’s Villainous Cast Adds to the Franchise
Smith’s participation in Starfighter introduces a notable figure from the fantasy and sci-fi worlds into Star Wars, bringing his ability to portray complex antagonists. His addition alongside Mia Goth suggests the film will focus heavily on conflict against Gosling’s character, emphasizing a tense dynamic between heroes and villains.
Because the storyline will explore a fresh timeline, free from direct links to existing films, Smith’s role as a villain could bring new dimensions and stakes to the Star Wars mythos. Shawn Levy aims to craft a unique entry that expands the franchise’s universe without relying on familiar characters or previous plotlines.
Starfighter currently holds a release date of May 28, 2027, in the United States, promising an original Star Wars adventure centered on Ryan Gosling’s leading role and supported by Smith’s compelling villainy.
Looking Ahead to Starfighter’s Impact on Star Wars Fans
The arrival of Matt Smith in Starfighter has generated interest and tension among fans, especially given his history with the franchise and the anticipation surrounding the new standalone story. Gosling’s Star Wars casting moves the project forward with high-profile talent, setting expectations for a gripping newcomer entry in the saga.
As the movie approaches its filming start date, audiences will watch closely to see how Smith’s villainous character enhances the film’s conflict and what the fresh timeline will reveal about the Star Wars lore. This casting decision deepens the emotional stakes, reflecting underlying frustrations from Smith’s previous near-involvement and the excitement for his final inclusion in the Star Wars universe.
