Star Wars fans have something to look forward to with the announcement of a new adaptation delving into the history between Grand Admiral Thrawn and Anakin Skywalker. Previously in Ahsoka, the former Imperial leader alluded to his familiarity with Anakin Skywalker, which he cited as a pivotal factor in his triumph over Ahsoka Tano by successfully reentering the known galaxy by the series' conclusion. The comic book adaptation will uncover Thrawn's past encounters with Anakin (and Darth Vader) in a fresh and engaging manner.
During NYCC's Lucasfilm Publishing panel, it was announced that the 2018 novel Thrawn: Alliances is set to receive a comic adaptation in January 2024 (via Star Wars.com). Original author Timothy Zahn will team up with Jody Houser, who previously penned the comic adaptation of Zahn's preceding Thrawn novel in the Star Wars canon.
Thrawn: Alliances transpires during the Clone Wars era and the Dark Times of the Empire's reign. The narrative unveils Thrawn's unexpected encounter with Anakin Skywalker. Additionally, it explores Thrawn's first mission with Darth Vader after he ascended to the rank of Grand Admiral within the Imperial Navy. This thrilling development will adapt the novel into the comics medium, featuring all-new artwork as the visuals come to life. For starters, check out the new cover illustrated by Rod Reis below.
But what is the connection between Anakin and Thrawn in the first place? The relationship between the two is rather complicated. Luckily, fans will finally get to understand why Thrawn was so vindictive in the Ahsoka finale.
How Does Thrawn Know Anakin Skywalker?
Toward the conclusion of the Clone Wars, Anakin Skywalker and Thrawn crossed paths on the planet Batuu. Having journeyed from the Unknown Regions to seek allies and advanced technology for his people the Chiss, Thrawn encountered Anakin. The latter was on a mission to rescue his wife Padmé, with whom the Republic had lost contact. Collaborating briefly, Thrawn gained insights into the ongoing conflict from Skywalker. They parted ways, each holding a deep mutual respect for the other.
Years later, during the Empire's rule, Thrawn returned and captured the attention of Emperor Palpatine, ultimately securing a prominent position within the Imperial Navy, leading to his appointment as Grand Admiral. Curiously, he was assigned a mission alongside Darth Vader, and they found themselves on Batuu. With his remarkable intellect, Thrawn swiftly deduced that Vader was once the individual he had met during the Clone Wars. The parallelism in their adventures promises an exciting storyline.
This comic adaptation also offers an opportunity to align Thrawn's characterization more closely with his on-screen depiction. Moreover, it's expected to shed some light on why the novel version of the character has some clear differences from Lars Mikkelsen's live-action performance in Ahsoka.
In addition to the Thrawn Alliances comic book adaptation, the Lucasfilm Publishing panel confirmed that Mace Windu and Boba Fett are each getting their own miniseries. The Jedi Master's miniseries will be written by Mark Bernardin while the iconic bounty hunter's story will be explored by Star Wars: Bounty Hunters' Ethan Sacks.
For now, Thrawn's return to live-action has not yet been confirmed as Ahsoka has not yet been officially renewed for a second season (it was previously reported that the renewal is in consideration). In the meantime, fans can eagerly anticipate an entirely fresh perspective on Thrawn's relationship with Anakin Skywalker when Thrawn: Alliances graces the shelves in January 2024.
