On August 7, 2025, Disney and Lucasfilm settled a high-profile lawsuit with former The Mandalorian actress Gina Carano, who accused the studios of discrimination and wrongful termination over her controversial social media posts, as reported by Variety.
A Lucasfilm spokesperson stated, “We look forward to identifying opportunities to work with Ms. Carano,” hinting at a potential reconciliation. The settlement, with undisclosed terms, follows Carano’s 2021 firing from The Mandalorian and Rangers of the New Republic after posts deemed “abhorrent” by Lucasfilm, raising questions about her return as fan-favourite character Cara Dune.
Carano’s troubles began with a February 2021 post comparing modern political divisiveness to Nazi persecution of Jews, sparking swift backlash. Lucasfilm dropped her, citing her views as incompatible with their values. Earlier posts mocking COVID-19 mask mandates and alleging 2020 election fraud, combined with her refusal to meet with Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy and 45 LGBTQ+ employees, cemented her exit. Paid $25,000 per episode plus a $5,000 bonus, Carano’s departure cost her a starring role in Rangers of the New Republic.
Gina Carano Settles with Disney After 'Mandalorian' Firing, Thanks Elon Musk, a 'Man I've Never Met', for Funding Lawsuit https://t.co/vnMCgxFLY5
— People (@people) August 8, 2025In February 2024, backed by Elon Musk’s X funding, Carano sued Disney, alleging harassment and defamation for targeting her right-wing beliefs. She claimed male co-stars like Pedro Pascal faced no consequences for similar political posts, such as comparing Donald Trump to Hitler in 2017. A 2024 court ruling upheld her claims, rejecting Disney’s argument that it could avoid associating with controversial talent, per The Hollywood Reporter.
Since her exit, Carano dropped by UTA, pivoted to independent projects like White Knuckle and Terror on the Prairie with The Daily Wire. Her role as the tough Cara Dune in The Mandalorian made her a fan favourite, but her posts alienated some audiences. The settlement, supported by Musk’s $10 million for X-funded lawsuits, according to Deadline, opens a door for collaboration. Lucasfilm praised Carano’s work ethic, describing it as “well-respected.” However, fan backlash and Disney’s sensitivity to public perception might complicate a potential return.
With The Mandalorian & Grogu slated for 2026 and Jon Favreau teasing spin-offs, Carano could potentially cameo or reprise Cara Dune. However, her controversial statements and polarised fanbase pose challenges. The settlement signals Disney’s willingness to mend ties, but public reaction and industry dynamics will determine if Carano can reclaim her Star Wars role or if her galactic journey has concluded.
