When Star Wars: The Mandalorian started in 2019, Din Djarin (Pedro Pascual) was introduced as a mysteriously distant character known only for his helmet. His character development begins when his relationship with Grogu unfolds, but there are also some rare times when Din opens up to others, like Omera (Julia Jones). In Season 1 Episode 4, Chapter 4: Sanctuary, which served as Bryce Dallas Howard's Star Wars directorial debut, a romantic relationship between Din and Omera almost brewed. Although it didn’t happen, Howard explained Din’s romance in the Disney+ series raised questions about love and duty.
In an interview with Collider at Fan Expo Canada in Toronto, Howard talked about her contributions to The Mandalorian. She revealed the backstory of Omera, with whom Din developed a significant connection in the first season. As the episode’s director, the actress played a major role in shaping the character of Omera. Though she didn’t want to get much credit for the series, giving it all to the showrunner Jon Favreau, executive producer Dave Filoni, and the franchise creator George Lucas, she admitted her love for romance.
“I will not take much credit for anything except for this. I love romance. I love romance. I love it. I love it. I love it,” she said.
This passion became a crucial part of Episode 4’s development, as she expressed her excitement about the relationship between Din and Omera after she read the script. However, at first, the female farmer didn't have a name yet, so she asked Favreau if she could give her.
“Of course, you know, what do you want the name to be?” Favreau asked Howard.
Howard’s assistant at the time, Sonia Aurora, suggested the name Omera and quickly found it cool. However, her insights into the character went beyond just the name. She was eager to explore the tension that surrounded Din’s internal conflict, his devotion to the Mandalorian Creed, which required him not to remove his helmet, and her budding romantic feelings for Omera.
“I was very eager to lean into, sort of the tension of, if you're someone who's wearing a helmet, and you've devoted yourself in this way, what happens when you fall in love?” she asked.
True enough, this is a big question throughout the episode as Din and Omera develop their feelings for each other. He almost lets her take his helmet off and is ready to leave Grogu in her care, showing the lengths he can go to for Omera. However, Din still ends up choosing to continue following the Way, leaving Omera behind.
Will Omera return in Star Wars: The Mandalorian?
Din and Omera’s romance only lasts one episode. Hence, many can’t help but ask if Omera will still return to The Mandalorian in the future. By the looks of it, Episode 4 may be the last time fans will see Omera, as the show focuses on Din and Grogu’s relationship. A lot has already happened after the first season. However, it’s still likely after the Star Wars galaxy map has been updated and put Sorgan quite near to Adelphi, a planet Din may often frequent as part of his job for Captain Carson Teva (Paul Sun-Hyung Lee) on behalf of the New Republic.
Though it seems intentional, it may also be just a coincidence. With Howard’s confirmation of Din and Omera’s romantic relationship, Din’s story might conclude with his return to Sorgan to finally be with Omera after the life she offered him before he left. Although it remains to be seen if this will happen, it would be a satisfying ending that fans hope for once Grogu’s Mandalorian training is complete.
As Din is known for honoring his devotion to the Creed instead of his feelings, his relationship with Omera may no longer continue. Sure, he considers settling down, but his goal has always been to become the best Mandalorian to help others after being saved by the Death Watch as a child.
All episodes of The Mandalorian Seasons 1-3 are available on Disney+.
