Everything You Need to Know About 'The Acolyte': Characters, Plot, and More

How much do you know about the newest galactic adventure Star Wars: The Acolyte? This eight-episode series just landed on Disney+, and it’s breaking new ground. In a galaxy packed with epic lightsaber duels, endless battles of good versus evil, and a good chunk of family drama, Lucasfilm and Disney have given us tons of stories revolving around the Skywalker saga. But guess what? The Acolyte breaks free from that well-trodden timeline, offering a fresh, new perspective on the Star Wars universe. Trust us, you don’t want to miss a single detail of this thrilling new chapter!

What is ‘The Acolyte’ about?

“Before the Empire. Before the Menace. There was an acolyte.”

That’s the catchy tagline for the new Star Wars show, where we see the Jedi at their prime. The Acolyte follows the Jedi Order’s investigation into a string of Jedi murders. It focuses on Osha, a former Jedi who is framed for the killings. And this is where it gets interesting - this assassin might have ties to the Sith, who were thought to be extinct for a thousand years. Expect the usual Star Wars flair—lightsaber duels, bar brawls, deep dives into the Force, and even some Force-sensitive twins.

When Does ‘The Acolyte’ Take Place?

In The Acolyte, we're thrown back to the High Republic era, that's about 100 years before the Skywalkers were even a thing. This is a time in the galaxy pre-Empire, pre-Palpatine, and pre-Sith shenanigans. What makes The Acolyte so thrilling is its fresh setting combined with a juicy murder mystery.

5 Things You Need To Know

The High Republic: When the Jedi Ruled the Galaxy

The Jedi were at their peak during the High Republic era. It was a time of peace and prosperity, with the Republic thriving and 10,000 Jedi scattered across the galaxy. These Jedi weren't just remote warriors; they lived among the people, trained everywhere from the Galactic Core to the Outer Rim, and were deeply involved in daily life, fighting crime and injustice. The Acolyte takes us right into this golden age, showcasing the Jedi in their prime.

Yoda: A Constant on the Jedi Council

During the time of The Acolyte, Yoda remains a pillar of the Jedi Council. With centuries of experience, he's been training Jedi since he was 100 years old. In the High Republic era, he focuses on guiding Jedi Younglings, solidifying his reputation as one of the greatest Jedi ever. Yoda's incredibly long lifespan and unmatched battle prowess make him a legendary figure. By the High Republic era, he's already a Grandmaster, sharing the role with other esteemed Jedi for their wisdom and counsel.

The Acolyte: The End of an Era

Set at the tail end of the High Republic era, The Acolyte unfolds just before this golden age comes crashing down. Spanning from 500 BBY to around 100 BBY, the High Republic era was a time of peace and prosperity. The Acolyte takes place near the close of this timeline, setting the stage for the dramatic changes to come in the Star Wars universe.

Unleashing the Force: Jedi in the High Republic Era

The Acolyte showcases the Jedi’s creative and powerful connection to the Force. Jedi were far more experimental with the Force during the High Republic Era, developing unique and unconventional powers. Take Jedi Master Avar Kriss, for instance. She experienced the Force as music and could "meld" the powers of other Jedi, conducting them like an orchestra. This ability allowed the Jedi to achieve feats together that were impossible alone.

The Sith: A Hidden Threat in The Acolyte

At the time of The Acolyte, the Sith are believed to be extinct, marking an era of peace and prosperity. Although a Sith Acolyte features in the series, the Sith were not a visible threat, remaining so few that they slipped under the Jedi’s radar. Had they been discovered, it’s possible the Jedi’s strength could have easily crushed them. Instead, the Jedi focused on other dangers like the Nihil and the Drengir. This oversight might just set the stage for the events in The Acolyte.

The Acolyte Cast

• Lee Jung-jae - Jedi Master Sol
• Amandla Stenberg - Mae and Osha (she plays the role of twin sisters - hence the two characters)
• Manny Jacinto - Qimir
• Rebecca Henderson - Jedi Master Vernestra Rwoh
• Joonas Suotamo - Jedi Master Kelnacca
• Carrie-Anne Moss - Jedi Master Indara
• Charlie Barnett - Jedi Knight Yord Fandar
• Dafne Keen - Padawan Jecki Lon
• Dean-Charles Chapman - Jedi Master Torbin
• Jodie Turner-Smith - Mother Aniseya

What Is The New Star Wars Viewing Order?

Wondering how to navigate the Star Wars universe now? Here’s a fresh take: start with “The Acolyte”, set before “The Phantom Menace”. This means your journey kicks off with Jedi facing a Force-sensitive assassin, not with the tales of Jar-Jar, Qui-Gon, and young Anakin.

After The Acolyte, move on to the prequel trilogy, then explore the animated series, “Andor”, “Rogue One”, and “Solo”. Follow up with the original trilogy, take a detour through the Mando-verse with “The Mandalorian'', “Ahsoka” and “The Book of Boba Fett'' before you wrap it up with the sequel trilogy.

And that’s everything you need to know about The Acolyte!