Star Wars: The Acolyte is expected to feature a lightsaber showdown with the number of colorful swords the show will feature. It will even introduce Vernestra Rwoh’s unique lightsaber into live-action, giving a good look at her rare lightwhip for the first time. But aside from Vernestra, Jedi Guardian Yord Fandar will also have a unique yellow lightsaber, similar to Rey Skywalker’s laser sword. As its color’s significance remains a mystery, Charlie Barnett, who will play Yord, reveals the real meaning behind Rey’s yellow lightsaber.
In an interview with Total Film via ScreenRant, Barnett revealed that he originally wanted to wield a purple lightsaber but was given a different color. Though he couldn’t reveal its hue, as it was related to another character, he ended up having a yellow one. Sure, he was surprised by the move, but he couldn’t complain due to its meaningful significance.
“I think yellow represents balance, duality, a person who's just as much connected to the Force as to their own physical grounding,” he said.
What does Rey Skywalker’s yellow lightsaber mean in Star Wars?
Yellow lightsabers are pretty much rare in the Star Wars universe. This color is associated with a specific group of Jedi known as the Guardians, who focused on physical aspects of combat, like acrobatics and swordplay. They use yellow lightsabers to emphasize their fight.
Aside from the Jedi Temple Guard, the Jedi Sentinel also used yellow lightsabers. In the Jedi Order, they stood between the Guardians and the Consulars, who emphasized diplomatic abilities, and blended aspects of each. The bounty hunter Asajj Ventress also wields the same-colored saber, though she got it from the black market and didn’t personally create it.
However, yellow lightsabers are now mainly linked to Rey after the events of Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker. After burying Leia and Luke Skywalker’s sabers in the sands of Tatooine, Rey built her own blade and the moment she ignited it was powerful. From a scavenger, she fully transformed into a formidable Jedi Knight.
Like Barnett’s words, Rey finally found her balance and connection to the Force. Her yellow lightsaber symbolizes her journey, resilience, and inner peace after learning she’s Emperor Palpatine’s granddaughter through cloning. And with her new Star Wars movie coming, this proves she can now lead a New Jedi Order and protect them from the dark side.
The Acolyte is set to be released on Disney+ on June 4, 2024. As Barnett's role is described as a Jedi Guardian, he might have a connection with the Guardians, who originally wield yellow lightsabers. And with Rey having the same-colored laser sword, she may become the guardian of the Jedi.
