‘The Mandalorian and Grogu’ Introduces Shakari, A 1920s Mobster Planet Inspired by Scorsese

A new ‘Star Wars’ movie is set to expand the galaxy with a unique planet that diverges from the familiar locations fans typically recognize.

This new world, named Shakari, will feature in ‘The Mandalorian and Grogu’. Production designer Andrew L. Jones revealed that the concept for Shakari draws inspiration from Prohibition-era Chicago, depicting a crime-ridden city where it perpetually rains and sunlight is a rarity.

The creative team aimed to give the planet a distinctive vibe, especially regarding weaponry. They crafted a novel blaster design reminiscent of the Tommy gun style from the 1920s, blending a familiar aesthetic with elements from the ‘Star Wars’ universe.

Shakari is also home to a character connected to Martin Scorsese, though the character’s name remains undisclosed. This individual is described as an Ardennian, the same species as Rio Durant from ‘Solo: A Star Wars Story’. Jon Favreau, who directed ‘The Mandalorian and Grogu’ and voiced Rio, shared these details in an interview with Fandango.

“Shakari was inspired by Prohibition-era Chicago,” Andrew L. Jones stated during a press preview event attended by Polygon.

While specific plot details regarding Shakari remain scarce, the descriptions suggest it will play a significant role in the film. There is even speculation that it could host a major action sequence, potentially a car chase inspired by ‘The French Connection’, a concept Jon Favreau has previously mentioned.

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