570: The Mandalorian and Grogu Cast Interviews – Lateef Crowder, Jonny Coyne & Matthew Willig
This week we’re bringing you the first round of actor interviews we recorded at Rebel Scum Con 2026: The Mandalorian and Grogu stars Lateef Crowder (Din Djarin stunt performer), Matt Willig (Hogsbreth), and Jonny Coyne (Lord Janu)!
Lateef Crowder takes us beneath the beskar to the Mandalorian’s action scenes. He reveals that he sweated through two suits a day while filming The Mandalorian and Grogu, takes us inside the film’s incredible ice-base battle, and recalls fighting Giancarlo Esposito during the unforgettable Darksaber duel in The Mandalorian S2. “Giancarlo does not play!”
Next, Jonny Coyne reveals how his own name inspired the Imperial warlord Janu Coin. He recalls running up the Razor Crest ramp, filming with old-school practical effects, and shares Lord Janu’s secret to surviving when so many other Star Wars villains have fallen: “You just become a rat!”
Finally, Matthew Willig discusses becoming Hogsbreth, Lord Janu’s towering Iktotchi enforcer. He is an intimidating 6’ 8” in real life, but sweet as can be. The lifelong Star Wars fan shares what it was like transforming through horns and prosthetics, and why remaining menacing around an adorable, lifelike Grogu was nearly impossible. We also revisit his memorable role as Little Chino on Dexter.
Next week: The Mandalorian & Grogu stunt & character performer team:
- Richard Cetrone – Rotta the Hutt
- Donald Mills – Embo
- Misty Rosas – Hugo Durant
- Matt Leonard – Zeb
Watch the YouTube version here for the best experience. Listen to the podcast episode here:
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Never Land on Alderaan!
