‘Star Wars: The Acolyte’ Reveals Details as the Second Show Set in the High Republic Era – Leslye Headland Shares Insights
‘Star Wars: The Acolyte’ has been in development for a considerable time, and this week marked a flurry of announcements, including the release of the show’s first trailer. While the plot remains largely under wraps, fans are eagerly anticipating the series for its setting in the High Republic Era, a period yet to be explored in live-action.
Despite this unique backdrop, ‘The Acolyte’ is actually the second show to be set during this era, following the recently concluded ‘Young Jedi Adventures.’ Leslye Headland, the show’s creator, has now provided details on where exactly it fits within the broader Star Wars timeline.
I was so interested in a storyline where the Jedi were at the height of their power — and I don’t mean The Phantom Menace, because at that point, there’s a Sith Lord in the Senate that they’re not picking up on.
The series is set in the later years of the High Republic Era, occurring a century prior to the events of ‘Episode I: The Phantom Menace.’ This period, often referred to as the Golden Age of the Jedi, represents a significant yet relatively unexplored chapter in the Star Wars timeline. It was a time when the Jedi Order flourished and wielded considerable influence, a detail highlighted by Headland as well.
If Star Wars is about the underdog versus the institution, [in The Acolyte] the Jedi are the institution
The series will pay homage to the High Republic books, with one character, Vernestra Rwoh, directly adapted from the literature. In the books, Rwoh, a Mirialan female Jedi Master, achieved the rank of Jedi Knight at a remarkably young age of fifteen, mentored by Jedi Master Stellan Gios. Renowned for her leadership and unwavering commitment, Rwoh confronted numerous trials, including clashes with the Nihil pirate faction.
Despite enduring the destruction of Starlight Beacon and the loss of her former mentor, she remained steadfast in her Jedi principles. Eventually, Rwoh embraced the role of Wayseeker, guided by the Force’s will, embarking on a quest to locate her missing Padawan, Imri Cantaros.
The series will depict Rwoh as an older version, as the books primarily focus on the earlier years of the High Republic. The prospect of witnessing this era of Jedi on-screen is highly anticipated. What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments below!
