Galactic Whispers: Is Ryan Gosling Playing Cade Skywalker in Star Wars: Starfighter?

The buzz around Star Wars: Starfighter has intensified with speculation that Ryan Gosling might portray Cade Skywalker, a fan-favorite character from the novelized Star Wars saga.

Announced at Star Wars Celebration Japan on April 18, 2025, the film, directed by Shawn Levy, is set to release on May 28, 2027, and follows events five years after The Rise of Skywalker.

Gosling’s casting as a new character has sparked theories, particularly given his stage appearance hinting at a lightsaber-wielding role, fueling debates about whether this could be the legacy character from the Legends continuity.

Who Is Cade Skywalker in Star Wars Lore?

Cade Skywalker emerges from the Star Wars Expanded Universe, specifically the 2006-2010 Legacy comic series, as a descendant of Luke Skywalker.

According to Wookieepedia, updated October 21, 2025, he is a smuggler-turned-Jedi who battles the Sith-Imperial forces 137 years after Return of the Jedi.

His story involves a troubled past, a connection to the Force, and a redemption arc, elements that align with Gosling’s ability to portray complex characters, as seen in Drive.

While the film is set in the canonical timeline, not the Legends universe, Lucasfilm’s history of adapting EU ideas, like Thrawn, leaves room for speculation.

No official confirmation ties Gosling to Cade, but the character’s popularity on fan forums like Reddit’s r/StarWars suggests a demand for his inclusion.

What Clues Point to Ryan Gosling as Cade Skywalker?

The Star Wars: Starfighter announcement included Gosling on stage with a prop lightsaber, as reported by StarWars.com on April 18, 2025, hinting at a Force-sensitive role.

His comments at the event, per BBC’s coverage on April 18, 2025, emphasized a character “filled with heart and adventure,” echoing Cade’s journey.

The film’s setting, five years post-Rise of Skywalker, could allow a time jump or multiversal twist to introduce a descendant, a theory floated by IGN on October 20, 2025.

Gosling’s physical preparation, including martial arts training noted in Variety on September 15, 2025, mirrors the combat skills Cade exhibits.

However, Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy’s mandate for a “Shawn Levy movie” suggests a fresh character, casting doubt on a direct Cade adaptation unless reimagined.

How Does the Film’s Direction Influence This Theory?

Shawn Levy’s approach to Star Wars: Starfighter, starting production in fall 2025, leans toward original storytelling, as per StarWars.com’s April 18, 2025, update.

His Deadpool & Wolverine success indicates a blend of humor and action, which could suit a roguish Cade-like figure.

The film’s budget, estimated at $200-250 million by Deadline on July 10, 2025, supports a high-profile character, potentially justifying Gosling’s casting.

Yet, Levy’s focus on a new narrative, distinct from sequel trilogy ties, challenges the Cade theory.

The absence of Legacy-era characters in official synopses, per Wikipedia’s October 21, 2025, entry, suggests a standalone tale, though fan edits on YouTube speculate a hidden Skywalker lineage.

Could This Be a New Take on Cade Skywalker?

Speculation about Star Wars: Starfighter introducing a reimagined Cade Skywalker gains traction with Gosling’s involvement.

The film’s post-Rise of Skywalker setting could feature a young heir to the Skywalker name, trained in secrecy, aligning with Cade’s comic origin.

A Screen Rant article from October 19, 2025, suggests Lucasfilm might use the EU as inspiration, adapting Cade’s traits—rebellion, Force sensitivity—into a new hero.

Alternatively, Gosling could play a mentor or rival, with Cade’s essence woven into the plot.

The lack of casting leaks, a rarity for such projects, keeps the mystery alive, but the film’s May 2027 release offers time for reveals, potentially at Celebration 2026.

Some Closing Thoughts

The question of Ryan Gosling playing Cade Skywalker in Star Wars: Starfighter remains a tantalizing mystery, blending fan hope with creative possibility.

Whether a direct adaptation or a new spin, the film’s direction and Gosling’s talents suggest a character of depth.

As production unfolds, the galaxy far, far away may soon confirm this speculative journey.

So, are you rocking with this theory? Or, do you have any of your own which differ? We would love to know it all! Make them known in the comments section down below!