Disneyland will add original Star Wars characters to Galaxy's Edge

Disney Parks announced that Galaxy's Edge will include original trilogy characters such as Darth Vader beginning at the end of April, and that further updates — including more John Williams music and a 2026 Smuggler's Run overhaul — are planned.

Disney Parks has announced updates to Galaxy's Edge at Disneyland that begin at the end of April. The announcement says characters from the original Star Wars trilogy will be introduced to Batuu, expanding the eras represented in the land since it opened in 2019. The update was confirmed on Disney Parks' social media and is timed ahead of Star Wars Day (May the Fourth) and Disneyland's Star Wars Nites. Additional changes described for the land include more of John Williams' score and a separate Smuggler's Run update scheduled for 2026. Key details: - Disney Parks confirmed on social media that changes to Galaxy's Edge will begin at the end of April. - Original trilogy figures including Darth Vader and Imperial Stormtroopers will appear in the land; other original characters named include Luke Skywalker, Leia Organa, and Han Solo. - New Republic and Age of Resistance characters (for example Din Djarin, Grogu, Ahsoka, and Rey Skywalker) are noted as remaining in specific sections; Kylo Ren and First Order troopers are reported to move to Tomorrowland. - More of John Williams' classic Star Wars score will be added to the land's ambient music. - A major update to Smuggler's Run is planned for 2026 and is described as starring Din Djarin and Grogu. Summary: The announced changes broaden the range of Star Wars eras represented inside Galaxy's Edge by adding original trilogy characters and soundtrack elements. These updates begin at the end of April and coincide with Star Wars Day and park events, while a Smuggler's Run overhaul is scheduled for 2026. Further operational details and specific timelines beyond these announcements were not provided.