‘Frozen’ Star Josh Gad Jumps to ‘Star Wars’ Universe in Shocking Dark Side Role
Josh Gad has spent years bringing one of Disney’s most lovable characters to life, but his latest appearance has fans seeing the actor in an entirely different light.
The actor, best known for voicing Olaf in Disney’s Frozen (2013) franchise, recently surprised fans after appearing in an unexpected Star Wars role.
Rather than delivering jokes as everyone’s favorite snowman, Gad traded his familiar Disney personality for something considerably more intimidating.
Fans spotted the actor wearing a First Order uniform, surrounded by what appeared to be a film crew.
Now, footage of the encounter offers a closer look at his surprising transformation.
An Unexpected Appearance Catches Fans Off Guard
Josh Gad was recently spotted inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Park, dressed as a First Order officer from Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.
In a video shared on Instagram by @jaimanderson, Gad appeared in the recognizable First Order military-style uniform.
Several crew members surrounded the actor as filming appeared to take place inside the popular themed land.
Despite his intimidating costume, Gad offered a young guest a fist bump before continuing with the apparent production.
Disney has not officially explained what Gad was filming or how the footage might eventually be used.
However, the Instagram user suggested that the actor was participating in a commercial.
For now, the exact purpose of the appearance remains a mystery.
From Friendly Snowman to Galactic Villain
Seeing Gad dressed as a First Order officer is particularly amusing considering his longstanding association with Olaf.
In Frozen (2013) and Frozen II (2019), Gad voices the cheerful snowman whose innocent personality and enthusiasm make him one of Disney’s most recognizable animated characters.
Olaf loves warm hugs, friendship, and making people laugh.
The First Order, meanwhile, represents almost the complete opposite.
Within the Star Wars universe, the military organization uses intimidation, strict discipline, and overwhelming force to maintain control.
Fans accustomed to hearing Gad’s upbeat Olaf voice probably wouldn’t expect to see him wearing the uniform of an organization associated with the dark side of the galaxy.
Of course, Gad’s appearance doesn’t necessarily mean he’s officially joining a future Star Wars production.
This is likely just another commercial for Disneyland featuring Gad.
Still, watching one of Disney’s friendliest performers temporarily embrace the villainous side of Star Wars makes for an entertaining crossover.
And surprisingly, this isn’t the first time Gad has stepped into an unusual Disney role.
This Isn’t His First Unexpected Disney Job
Gad has made a habit of surprising Disney park guests by stepping into different cast member roles over the years.
Some of his most memorable appearances include:
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Jungle Cruise Skipper: In 2023, Gad stepped behind the microphone at Disneyland’s Jungle Cruise, entertaining guests aboard the classic attraction.
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Kilimanjaro Safaris Guide: In 2025, Gad became a safari guide at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, helping guests explore the attraction’s wildlife habitats.
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Disneyland Railroad Conductor: In 2024, the actor traded his usual Disney role for a railroad uniform, interacting with guests aboard the Disneyland Railroad.
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Haunted Mansion Butler: In 2025, Gad embraced the spooky side of Disney by dressing as a Haunted Mansion cast member.
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Storybook Land Canal Boats Storyteller: Earlier in 2026, Gad joined the Disneyland attraction, entertaining guests while guiding them through miniature Disney scenes.
These appearances have allowed Gad to interact with guests beyond his familiar role as Olaf.
His latest First Order transformation continues that tradition, although playing an intimidating officer represents a different side of the Disney star.
A Familiar Character Is Preparing for a Major Return
While Gad continues making surprise theme park appearances, his acting schedule remains busy.
The actor has several upcoming projects planned across the next few years, including animated films, comedies, and major franchise installments.
His upcoming projects include:
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The Angry Birds Movie 3 (2026): Gad returns as Chuck, with the animated sequel scheduled for December 23, 2026.
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Untitled Ocean’s Prequel (2027): Gad is attached to the upcoming project, which is targeting a 2027 release.
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Spaceballs: The New One (2027): The actor joins the upcoming Mel Brooks comedy sequel, currently scheduled for April 2027.
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Frozen III (2027): Gad returns as Olaf when Disney’s highly anticipated animated sequel arrives November 24, 2027.
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Oh, the Places You’ll Go! (2028): Gad has a voice role in the upcoming animated adaptation of Dr. Seuss’s beloved book.
Of these projects, Frozen III (2027) will likely generate particular excitement among Disney fans.
The upcoming sequel brings Gad back to the franchise that helped establish him as one of Disney’s most recognizable voice actors.
Olaf has become a major part of the franchise’s identity, making Gad’s return especially important as Disney prepares to continue Anna and Elsa’s story.
Another Surprising Disney Moment
Whether Gad’s First Order appearance becomes part of a commercial or another promotional project, the unexpected filming has already created an entertaining moment for Disney fans.
His willingness to embrace unusual roles continues to make his theme park appearances memorable.
For now, Disney hasn’t confirmed when audiences might see the finished footage.
But with Frozen III (2027) approaching and several other projects on his schedule, Gad certainly isn’t disappearing from the spotlight anytime soon.
And apparently, even Olaf isn’t afraid to explore the dark side occasionally.
