Star Wars Celebration offered an exciting glimpse into the future of Disney Parks experiences, and IGN had the opportunity to sit down with Walt Disney Imagineering's Asa Kalama and Disney Live Entertainment's Michael Serna. They shared insights on the upcoming The Mandalorian & Grogu-themed update for Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run, the introduction of the adorable BDX droids to Disney Parks worldwide, and much more. Kalama and Serna also discussed the magic behind bringing Disney's beloved stories and characters to life, creating unforgettable moments for guests.
The Mandalorian and Grogu-Themed Update to Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run Will Let Engineers Take Care of Grogu
One of the highlights from Star Wars Celebration was the announcement that engineers will have the unique opportunity to care for Grogu aboard the Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run. This update, set to launch alongside a new film on May 22, 2026, will integrate The Mandalorian and Grogu into the attraction's narrative, albeit on a different path than the film. Engineers will enjoy a special role, interacting with Grogu and making pivotal decisions that steer the mission across the galaxy.
The Mandalorian and Grogu Mission Concept Art for Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run
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"Throughout the mission, we're going to be giving the engineers the opportunity to actually get to communicate with Grogu," Kalama explained. "There may be times when Mando has to deboard the Razor Crest, leaving Grogu to his own devices, which might lead to some fun moments at the control panel. We love the idea of these little vignettes and moments where you're on the comm with Grogu."
The update will also feature a choose-your-own-adventure element, where guests must make quick decisions about which bounties to pursue, leading to different destinations such as Bespin, the Death Star wreckage above Endor, and Coruscant. The new storyline involves Hondo Ohnaka discovering a deal on Tatooine between ex-Imperial officers and pirates, setting the stage for a high-stakes chase across the galaxy. Guests will team up with Mando and Grogu to track down the culprits and claim the bounty in a dynamic, galaxy-spanning adventure.
The BDX Droids Will Be Traveling From Disney Parks Around the World Right Into Your Heart
The beloved BDX Droids, which have captured the hearts of Star Wars fans globally, are set to make their way to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disneyland Paris, and Tokyo Disney. These droids, featured in The Mandalorian & Grogu, are designed to enhance the immersive experience at Disney Parks.
Image Credit: Disney
"The goal of the BDX Droids was to explore new ways to bring characters to life in our parks," Kalama stated. "We've created an original story just for the parks, and these droids have evolved as we've introduced them worldwide."
Serna added, "These droids have childlike qualities and unique personalities based on their colors, much like how fans connect with R2-D2 and other iconic droids. This approach allows us to engage guests and expand the Star Wars universe in our parks."
The introduction of BDX Droids is part of Disney's broader effort to enhance park experiences through advanced technology. Serna highlighted how animatronics and robotics are being used to create more personal and immersive interactions, extending beyond traditional attractions to street-level experiences.
"We're using technology in unexpected and invisible ways to create a sense of disbelief and bring characters to life with emotion and personality," Kalama emphasized. "This is a unique challenge compared to other uses of robotics, and it's central to our mission of crafting magical experiences."
From Peter Pan and Star Tours to Creating the Future
Both Kalama and Serna shared how their childhood experiences with Disney Parks inspired their careers. Serna recalled his excitement on Peter Pan's Flight and how Star Tours changed his perception of what theme parks could achieve.
"As a kid, Peter Pan's Flight was thrilling, but Star Tours truly transformed my view of theme parks," Serna said. "It made me feel part of a Star Wars story, which was magical. Our goal is to create experiences that transport guests of all ages into a fantasy world."
Kalama shared a similar sentiment, recounting his fascination with Tomorrowland and Star Tours. "The sense of magic and disassociation from reality is powerful, not just for kids but for adults too," he said. "We aim to create experiences that immerse the entire family in a fantasy world."
Their passion for storytelling and immersive experiences has driven them to contribute to innovative projects. Serna discussed his role in developing Shadows of Memory: A Skywalker Saga at Disneyland's Galaxy's Edge, a projection show that enhances the nightly fireworks with a Star Wars narrative.
Image Credit: Disney
"We saw an opportunity to enhance the daily fireworks experience in Batuu," Serna explained. "We worked with Lucasfilm to create a unique storytelling experience using the spires as a projection space, offering an immersive narrative even on nights without fireworks."
Kalama emphasized the meticulous attention to detail that goes into creating authentic and immersive environments. "We have serious conversations about seemingly minor details, like the type of screw head used, because everything adds up to create a truly authentic experience," he said.
Through their dedication and innovative approaches, Kalama and Serna are shaping the future of Disney Parks, ensuring that each new experience captures the magic and wonder that has inspired generations of Disney fans.
