Like a gift that keeps on giving, The Mandalorian has been saving the Star Wars franchise with one episode at a time. After setting up a solid foundation in its first season, The Mandalorian has openly embraced the larger Star Wars universe. From the controversial midi-chlorians to the Mandalorian heiress, the show has been rapidly establishing itself as a Star Wars staple. After months of speculation, the Dave Filoni and Jon Favreau led series finally introduced the first-ever live-action version of the fan-favorite Ahsoka Tano, played by Rosario Dawson. However, the former Jedi padawan is not the only major character who was revealed in the latest episode. In her mysterious quest, Ahsoka confirmed that Grand Admiral Thrawn is alive, and might also make his appearance soon enough.
Who Is Grand Admiral Thrawn?
The Star Wars universe has numerous antagonists having various aspirations and motivations that make them truly unforgettable. When it comes to Grand Admiral Thrawn, he is easily comparable with Emperor Palpatine and Darth Vader for being one of the most fearsome villains of the Star Wars universe.
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A member of the alien Chiss species, Thrawn is a well-built humanoid with blue skin and glowing red eyes. However, his striking appearance is not why Thrawn is regarded as a classic Star Wars villain. As one of the best military strategists, Thrawn has faced off against Luke, Leia, Lando Calrissian, and Han Solo. Unlike the Sith Lords who rely on fear and manipulation, Thrawn strives on eccentric ideas, even from his subordinates. As a result, his troops follow him out of loyalty, thus making Thrawn a tactical genius. He also takes interest in different cultures of the galaxy, analyzing them thoroughly to expand his arsenal of military tactics.
Why Is He Such An Important Figure?
Despite being one of the most diabolical and cunning strategists, Grand Admiral Thrawn has been pushed to the sidelines for far too long. First appearing in Timothy Zahn’s novel Heir to the Empire, the character became a fan-favorite as Zahn expanded his story into the Thrawn trilogy.
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Described as an unparalleled tactical genius, Thrawn was able to single-handedly wreak havoc on the New Republic, despite lacking a numerical advantage over his nemesis. As the last Grand Admiral of the defeated Imperial Fleet, Thrawn managed to revive the Star Wars franchise with his exploits which include an elaborate plan of getting his intellectual nemesis, Admiral Ackbar, arrested for treason.
What’s His Role In The Mandalorian?
Though Ahsoka Tano revealed that she is looking for Thrawn, it is yet to be revealed how the tactical genius fits in The Mandalorian. However, the show might be continuing the plot from Star Wars Rebels, where the Grand Admiral was last seen. In Rebels, Thrawn fought against Ezra Bridger, a Jedi, who was taught by Ahsoka Tano in the past. As Thrawn and Bridger were dragged into hyperspace by a Purrgil, their fates were unknown, until now. As it is revealed that the Grand Admiral is alive, then it’s quite possible that Ezra Bridger also survived. As Mando has set out to find Grugo a Jedi master, Ezra Bridger is the only logical solution. But for now, Mando and his newly found allies face both Moff Gideon and Grand Admiral Thrawn, and the future doesn’t look bright.
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