The definitive guide to Ahsoka Tano before watching Ahsoka on Disney+
Before embarking on a brand new Star Wars adventure, with Disney+'s Ahsoka, it's crucial to unravel the intricate layers that define this enigmatic character. Here’s a quick rundown for those who aren’t caught up on The Clone Wars, Rebels or other Star Wars lore.
Introduced to the wider (live-action) Star Wars audience through Rosario Dawson's portrayal in The Mandalorian Season 2, Ahsoka Tano emerges as a mysterious Force-user, wielding two lightsabers. However, beneath this alluring exterior lies a character with a profound history within the Star Wars canon, deeply cherished by long-time fans of the franchise.
From her animated origins in Star Wars: The Clone Wars to her pivotal role in Star Wars: Rebels, Ahsoka's evolution has been years in the making, a journey that unravels across multiple series and installations, ultimately leading to her highly anticipated standalone show.
Ahsoka’s story is one of growth, resilience, and unwavering dedication to justice, manifested through her trials and relationships. As we delve into the complexities of her character, this exploration will trace her path from the youthful padawan reluctantly taken under the wing of Anakin Skywalker, to her transformation into a key member of the Rebel Alliance.
Her evolution spans her time training alongside Anakin in The Clone Wars, her involvement in the battles against tyranny in Star Wars Rebels, and her current pursuit of the enigmatic Grand Admiral Thrawn in the upcoming Ahsoka series.
15 years of #Ahsoka Tano. pic.twitter.com/Y8scXnzgex
— Star Wars (@starwars) August 15, 2023
For fans who have followed Ahsoka's journey from the very beginning, the series represents a rewarding continuation of her story that bridges various eras of the saga. Understanding her history, connections, and growth enriches the viewing experience and highlights her importance in the Star Wars saga.
Though immersing yourself in Ahsoka's journey through prolonged binges of The Clone Wars, Rebels and The Mandalorian, is what we would ideally recommend, perhaps a deep-dive into Star Wars lore isn’t meant for everyone anticipating the upcoming series.
So here’s some quick trivia that should enhance your viewing experience and allow you to appreciate the depth of her character and her connections to the larger narrative, in 15 points:
1. Meet Ahsoka
Ahsoka made her debut in the animated film Star Wars: The Clone Wars in 2008 as a 14-year-old padawan assigned to Anakin Skywalker, voiced by Ashley Eckstein. This marked the start of her long history within the franchise. The Clone Wars provide the foundation for Ahsoka's character. We witness her growth from a headstrong apprentice to a skilled warrior.
2. Her creator
Dave Filoni, the creative mind behind many Star Wars projects, played the most crucial role in shaping Ahsoka's character. His understanding and love for the franchise enrich her portrayal.
3. A padawan
As Anakin's padawan, Ahsoka faced challenges and grew alongside him in the Clone Wars. Her departure from the Jedi Order, her bond with Anakin, and her decision to stand for justice characterize her development.
4. Ahsoka identity
Ahsoka's connections with Anakin Skywalker (later Darth Vader), other Jedi, and the Ghost crew members in Rebels influence her decisions and personal growth. Her strong Force sensitivity is an integral part of her identity. Her abilities and training contribute to her capabilities and role in the saga.
5. Ahsoka's journey
Her journey is marked by significant decisions, like leaving the Jedi Order when she's falsely accused of a crime. Her experiences shape her values and lead her down a path of self-discovery.
6. Order 66
The Clone Wars also provided insight into Ahsoka's relationship with Captain Rex and her survival during the great Jedi purge during Order 66, following which, she became a key member of the Rebel Alliance in Rebels. Her leadership and involvement continue to shape her legacy.
7. Confronting the past
In Rebels, Ahsoka faces Darth Vader, her former master. This confrontation is crucial to understanding her internal struggles and her role in the larger Star Wars narrative.
8. The Rebels
Ahsoka's link to Ezra Bridger and their joint quest, as well as her training of Sabine Wren as her padawan, as seen in Rebels, sets the stage for her involvement in the new Ahsoka series.
9. A greater threat
The upcoming series focuses on her quest to find Grand Admiral Thrawn, a character with ties to her past and the larger Star Wars narrative.
10. Enter Rosario Dawson
Rosario Dawson's portrayal of Ahsoka in season 2 of The Mandalorian brought the character into the live-action realm. To those who met her for the first time through The Mandalorian, Ahsoka came across as a mysterious, powerful Force-user, dual-wielding white sabers.
11. When
It takes place around 9 ABY (After Battle of Yavin), aligning with The Mandalorian timeline. Ahsoka, born in 36 BBY, is approximately 46 years old during this period.
12. Familiar faces
In addition to Ahsoka, the live-action series introduces Hera Syndulla, Zeb Orellios and Chopper the droid from Rebels, expanding their stories and impact on the Star Wars universe.
13. New faces
New characters like Baylan Skoll and Shin Hati pose challenges to Ahsoka. Thrawn's return and the potential for conflict add depth to the narrative.
14. Why Ahsoka
Ahsoka embodies the core values of a Jedi, evolving from her time as a padawan to her leadership within the Rebel Alliance. Her selflessness and determination drive her actions. As one of the most well-developed characters in Star Wars, Ahsoka's journey is a testament to incredible Star Wars storytelling
15. The significance of the new series
The transition of this beloved character into live-action format not only deepens her impact but also brings her complexities and growth to a wider audience, reaffirming her position as a cherished and iconic figure within the Star Wars canon.
The first two episodes of Ahsoka drop on Disney+ Hotstar tommorow.