Star Wars is an ever-expanding universe, and while some of its recent films and series may have caused interest in the franchise created by George Lucas to wane, thanks to products like The Mandalorian, the brand continues to thrive, attracting more and more followers.
However, the most highly anticipated Star Wars series is another one: Ahsoka. Starring a character well-known to fans of the saga due to the animated series The Clone Wars, this live-action show will continue the story of one of the most beloved Jedi in the entire Star Wars universe. We already got a glimpse of the protagonist in a cameo appearance during the second season of The Mandalorian, portrayed by the fantastic Rosario Dawson. But who are the characters we can expect to see in this series, which premieres on August 23rd?
Ahsoka Tano – Rosario Dawson
Let’s start from the beginning. The protagonist of Ahsoka, of course, is the one after whom the series is named. Ahsoka Tano belongs to the Togruta species and is a Jedi characterized by her bravery, wisdom, and the evolution she has undergone throughout the saga. Created by George Lucas, she was introduced in the series Star Wars: The Clone Wars in 2008 and quickly became a beloved figure for her charisma and skills in lightsaber combat.
Ahsoka was the padawan of the revered Jedi Master Anakin Skywalker during the Clone Wars. Her character, therefore, grew in complexity as she faced challenges and ethical dilemmas on the battlefield and explored her own identity. Ahsoka earned her place among fans by showcasing her combat prowess, wit, and ability to make tough decisions.
After her dramatic departure from the Jedi Order, unfairly accused of treason, Ahsoka continued her journey in the Star Wars universe. She made a triumphant return in the animated series Star Wars Rebels, where she became a valuable ally in the fight against the Galactic Empire. Her presence in Rebels further delved into her story and her influence on the growing Rebellion.
In addition to her appearances in Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels, Ahsoka Tano has been a focal point in other Star Wars productions. In The Mandalorian, Ahsoka was portrayed for the first time by Rosario Dawson, marking her live-action universe debut. Her involvement in the series added a significant link between various storylines and made it clear that she would be instrumental in the future of Star Wars.
Beyond Rosario Dawson, Ahsoka will also be portrayed by Savannah Steyn, who will depict a younger version of her character in flashbacks that will be featured throughout the series.
Anakin Skywalker – Hayden Christensen
We all already know Anakin Skywalker, the protagonist of the sequel trilogy, Darth Vader, and also the antagonist of the Obi-Wan Kenobi series. But to recap, we’ve prepared a brief summary of who he is.
Anakin Skywalker is one of the most iconic and complex characters in the Star Wars universe, known for his rise and fall as a Jedi and his eventual transformation into the feared Sith Lord Darth Vader. Anakin, as such, is first introduced as a young slave on the desert planet of Tatooine in Episode I – The Phantom Menace. Here, he appears as a child who becomes a Jedi Padawan but soon becomes the focal point of events that lead him to be seduced by the dark side of the Force.
The Star Wars prequel trilogy narrates the story of Anakin from his childhood to his fall into darkness. Initially, Anakin is discovered by the Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn and is revealed to be a talented and Force-sensitive child. In Episode II – Attack of the Clones, Anakin is now a young adult and becomes the padawan of Obi-Wan Kenobi. His relationship with Senator Padmé Amidala deepens, but signs of his internal struggle also begin to emerge.
The culmination of the prequel trilogy comes with Episode III – Revenge of the Sith, where Anakin is drawn to the dark side and becomes Darth Vader. His betrayal of the Jedi and transformation into the Sith apprentice of Palpatine (also known as Darth Sidious) are critical moments in the Star Wars saga. And the rest is history.
During these events, as seen in The Clone Wars and later in Rebels, Anakin has Ahsoka Tano as his padawan, a young Jedi whose training departs from the norm due to Anakin’s unconventional methods. This is what we will continue to explore in the series, once again portrayed by Hayden Christensen.
Grand Admiral Thrawn – Lars Mikkelsen
As we’ve already seen teased in The Mandalorian, the adversary to be reckoned with in Ahsoka Tano’s own series will be none other than Grand Admiral Thrawn, whom we previously encountered in Star Wars Rebels. Grand Admiral Thrawn is an iconic character within the expanded universe of Star Wars, known for his strategic brilliance, cunning, and appreciation for art.
Created by Timothy Zahn in the Thrawn trilogy of novels in the 1990s, Thrawn has captivated fans with his Machiavellian presence. Thrawn is a Chiss, an alien species with blue skin and distinctive features. In fact, his ability to analyze and understand the culture and tactics of his enemies makes him one of the most formidable military strategists of the Galactic Empire. His tactical approach is rooted in the study of art, believing that artworks reveal crucial insights into the psychology and strategy of his opponents.
Grand Admiral Thrawn is renowned for his loyalty to the Empire and his desire to preserve its order. While he is not a Force user, he possesses a unique insight that allows him to anticipate the actions of his enemies. His rivalry with iconic figures like Leia Organa, Luke Skywalker, and Han Solo in the expanded Star Wars universe has led to memorable confrontations and intellectual challenges.
Thrawn’s resurgence in the canonical Star Wars narrative came with his appearance in the animated series Star Wars Rebels. There, he became a formidable adversary for the Rebels and a direct subordinate of Emperor Palpatine. His presence in the series added depth to his legacy and allowed fans to once again enjoy his wit and calculated tactics. In Ahsoka, the character will be portrayed once again by actor Lars Mikkelsen.
Ezra Bridger – Eman Esfandi
Another character that we have seen in the trailers for Ahsoka and who will play a significant role in the series is Ezra Bridger, a central character in the animated series Star Wars Rebels, now portrayed by Eman Esfandi. Introduced as a young thief on the planet Lothal, Ezra becomes a brave leader and defender of the rebel cause in a galaxy oppressed by the Galactic Empire.
Throughout Star Wars Rebels, Ezra evolves from an impulsive and adventure-seeking youth to a respected leader and strategist in the fight against the Empire. His special connection with viewers lies in his determination to do what is right and protect those he loves. As he faces challenges, loses and gains loved ones, and discovers his role in the great galactic conflict, Ezra transforms into an inspiring individual for all rebels.
Sabine Wren – Natasha Liu Bordizzo
Certainly, in Ahsoka, they have made the most of the events from Star Wars Rebels, and Natasha Liu Bordizzo will also be involved in the character of Sabine Wren. Sabine is a talented Mandalorian in the art of combat and creativity, making her an invaluable member of the rebel team in the fight against the Galactic Empire.
As a member of the Ghost team, Sabine stands out for her skill with explosives and her passion for aesthetics, particularly her talent in painting and customizing armor. Her distinctive aesthetic is reflected in her Mandalorian armor, which is adorned with vibrant colors and unique designs.
Throughout Star Wars Rebels, the character of Sabine evolves as she faces personal challenges and confronts the horrors of the Empire. Her relationships with her family and friends become a crucial component of her development, and her role in building the rebel alliance solidifies her as a passionate leader and advocate for justice and freedom.
Other characters
Ahsoka promises to be a highly dynamic series filled with captivating characters. Other important figures set to appear include Baylan, an ally of Thrawn portrayed by the recently deceased Ray Stevenson; the villain Shin Hati (Ivanna Sakhno); and the rebel pilot Hera Syndulla (Mary Elizabeth Winstead).
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