Is a Beloved Legends Character Finally Joining the Star Wars Canon?

The arrival of *Lego Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy – Pieces of the Past* on Disney Plus has sparked excitement among fans, especially with its intriguing nod to the Legends character Mara Jade. In episode 2, the character Yesi mentions Watto, Hux, and notably, Mara, hinting at the complex interplay of characters from both canon and non-canon Star Wars lore.

Last updated: 20 October 2023 (BST)

Understanding the Significance of Mara Jade in Star Wars Lore

Mara Jade is a legendary figure within the Star Wars Expanded Universe, known for her deep connections to key characters and events. As the narrative unfolds in *Pieces of the Past*, her name serves as a bridge between the established canon and the cherished lore of the past.

• Key Takeaways:
• Mara Jade is a significant character from the Star Wars Legends universe.
• The mention of her name indicates potential future developments in the Star Wars narrative.
• The Skywalker family reunites, showcasing a unique character dynamic.
• The show explores a mixed universe of characters, adding layers to the story.
• Mara Jade's introduction to the canon may require a reimagined storyline.

Who is Mara Jade?

Initially introduced in Timothy Zahn's *Thrawn Trilogy*, Mara Jade began as an Emperor's Hand—an elite assassin for Emperor Palpatine. Her character is multifaceted, evolving from a strong adversary to a key ally and eventually becoming a pivotal member of the Skywalker family. This transition highlights the themes of redemption and personal growth prevalent in Star Wars narratives.

In the Legends continuity, Mara's journey is marked by her eventual marriage to Luke Skywalker and the birth of their son, Ben Skywalker. This connection to Luke places her in a unique position within the larger narrative, as she embodies the complexities of love, loyalty, and the struggle against the dark side.

The Transition from Canon to Legends

When Disney acquired Lucasfilm in 2012, the decision was made to reclassify the existing Expanded Universe as "Legends," effectively removing it from the official canon. This move allowed for a fresh narrative direction in the Star Wars franchise, but it also left many beloved characters, including Mara Jade, in limbo.

As the Star Wars universe expands with new films, series, and spin-offs, the potential for reintroducing Legends characters becomes a topic of speculation. While Mara Jade has not appeared in the sequel trilogy or subsequent series, her mention in *Pieces of the Past* opens the door for discussions about possible storylines or adaptations.

Mara Jade's Potential Reintroduction

For fans eager to see Mara Jade in the current canon, several factors come into play. Firstly, her absence in the sequel trilogy suggests that any future introduction would require a thoughtful reimagining of her backstory. Luke's teachings in *The Book of Boba Fett*, which emphasise detachment, further complicate the potential for her character's return in a romantic context.

However, the flexibility of the Star Wars narrative means there are numerous avenues to explore. One possibility is a different interpretation of her character, perhaps as a mentor figure or an ally in a new conflict. This approach maintains her significance while aligning with the current canon's themes and characters.

The Skywalker Family Dynamic in *Pieces of the Past*

One of the most captivating aspects of *Lego Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy – Pieces of the Past* is the reunion of the Skywalker family, featuring iconic characters such as Anakin, Luke, Padmé, and Leia. This portrayal allows fans to witness interactions that have never been depicted on screen before.

Writer and executive producer Benji Samit expressed the uniqueness of this opportunity: "This may be the only opportunity to ever see the Skywalker family unit, to get all four of them interacting with each other." Such moments not only evoke nostalgia but also explore the dynamics of family, legacy, and the burden of the Force.

Exploring the Mixed Universe

The character mix in *Pieces of the Past* raises intriguing possibilities about how different narratives coexist within the Star Wars universe. By including characters like Watto and Hux alongside Mara Jade, the show invites viewers to consider the complexities and contradictions of the galaxy far, far away.

This approach enhances the storytelling experience, allowing for unexpected alliances and conflicts that reflect the unpredictable nature of the franchise. It also highlights the potential for character development, as familiar faces interact in novel ways.

What’s Next for Star Wars?

As the Star Wars franchise continues to evolve, the introduction of Legends characters like Mara Jade remains a tantalising prospect. With numerous upcoming projects announced, including new films and series, there is ample opportunity for the expansion of the Star Wars universe.

Fans will be closely watching how the narrative threads are woven together, especially in relation to characters once deemed non-canon. The exploration of alternative timelines, parallel universes, or even flashbacks could provide a pathway for the introduction of beloved characters from the Legends era.

Conclusion: A Galaxy of Possibilities

With *Lego Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy – Pieces of the Past* now streaming, fans are treated to a playful yet meaningful exploration of the Star Wars universe. While Mara Jade's presence is felt through a simple name drop, it serves as a reminder of the rich tapestry of stories waiting to be explored.

The juxtaposition of canon and Legends characters not only enriches the narrative but also opens discussions about the future of Star Wars storytelling. As the franchise continues to expand, the possibilities remain endless. What other Legends characters might we see reimagined for a new generation of fans? Only time will tell.

FAQs

Who is Mara Jade in Star Wars?

Mara Jade is a character from the Star Wars Legends universe, originally an Emperor's Hand who later became an ally of Luke Skywalker. She is known for her complex character arc and her marriage to Luke, resulting in the birth of their son, Ben Skywalker.

Why was the Star Wars Expanded Universe rebranded as Legends?

When Disney acquired Lucasfilm, they decided to reclassify the Expanded Universe as Legends to create a clean slate for new narratives. This allowed for fresh storytelling without the constraints of established lore.

Will Mara Jade be introduced into the current Star Wars canon?

While there are no confirmed plans for Mara Jade's introduction into the current canon, her mention in *Pieces of the Past* indicates that the possibility exists for her return, albeit with a reimagined storyline.

What is the significance of the Skywalker family reunion in *Pieces of the Past*?

The reunion of the Skywalker family is significant as it allows fans to see key characters interact in a way that has never been depicted before, exploring themes of family dynamics, legacy, and the burden of the Force.

How does *Pieces of the Past* mix canon and Legends characters?

The show blends characters from both the canon and Legends universes, creating an intriguing narrative that explores unexpected alliances and conflicts, enriching the overall storytelling experience.