The Mandalorian season 3 premiere offers shocking update on Cara Dune

We knew Cara Dune wouldn’t be seen in The Mandalorian season 3, but we did not expect the show to drop a major update in The Mandalorian season 3 premiere.

Across the first two seasons of The Mandalorian, Gina Carano was a key staple in the cast playing the character of Cara Dune. However, in February 2021, Lucasfilm announced that Carano’s contract had been terminated due to controversial social media posts, bringing an abrupt end to her character’s time on the show.

The decision to fire Carano came after she posted a series of tweets that were widely criticized as insensitive and offensive. The backlash against Carano’s comments was swift and severe, with many fans of the show calling for her dismissal. Lucasfilm initially condemned her remarks before announcing that they had parted ways, stating that her comments were “abhorrent and unacceptable,” and did not reflect the values of the company. They also made it clear that they had no plans to work with her in the future.

Heading into the third season of The Mandalorian, we knew not to expect to see Cara Dune on screen due to the exit of actress Gina Carano… which is perhaps why many were so surprised when the show offered up a major update on the character halfway through the premiere.

Where is Cara Dune in The Mandalorian season 3?

In the season 3 premiere of The Mandalorian, Mando makes his way to Nevarro where he catches up with Greef Karga. During one of the pair’s exchanges in The Mandalorian season 3 premiere, Karga mentions he needs a marshall to help keep order in the area. Rather than simply declining the offer, Mando directly inquires about Marshall Dune which is when Karga offers up the explanation for how Lucasfilm has written the character out of the show.

When asked why he doesn’t turn to Cara Dune to be Nevarro’s new marshall, Karga reveals that after she brought in Moff Gideon, Dune was recruited by Special Forces. As such, she is no longer in Nevarro and has other commitments which will prevent her from taking the role.

It was a moment that brilliantly allowed the writers to provide audiences with an update as to what the character is now up to and leaves the door open for her to return should Lucasfilm look to recast the role in a later season.

What did you think of how The Mandalorian season 3 premiere handled Gina Carano’s exit with the update provided as to where Cara Dune is now? Do you think the role of Cara should be recast? Share your thoughts in the comments below!