Ahsoka Season 2: Ackbar vs Thrawn

In my perspective as a dedicated fan, it was Dave Filoni, the mastermind behind Ahsoka‘s season 2, who unveiled the compelling reason behind Admiral Ackbar’s resurgence to confront Grand Admiral Thrawn. As we recall from the climax of Ahsoka season 1, Thrawn has re-entered the primary galaxy of Star Wars, amplifying the Imperial Remnant’s menace. Given this escalating threat, it’s now official that Ackbar will spearhead the resistance against the formidable Imperial antagonist in the upcoming season.

At present, Star Wars Celebration 2025 is unfolding in Japan, and ScreenRant has been there, soaking up all the thrilling updates and unveilings from the distant galaxy. Among these, an exclusive sit-down with Lucasfilm’s Dave Filoni was held after the significant panel for Ahsoka season 2. In light of the disclosure that Admiral Ackbar would reappear to confront Thrawn, Filoni spoke with ScreenRant’s Ash Crossan about this revelation and the significance of resurrecting the original trilogy Rebellion commander:

The Star Wars Celebration 2025 is happening in Japan right now, and ScreenRant has been there for the whole weekend, gathering all the latest news and surprises from a galaxy far away. One of these includes an exclusive chat with Dave Filoni following the Ahsoka season 2 major panel. This conversation took place after it was announced that Admiral Ackbar would return to confront Thrawn. Filoni discussed this development with Ash Crossan from ScreenRant, explaining why it was crucial to bring back the original trilogy Rebellion commander.

Although it might seem outdated, it appears to be a reference to the extended Star Wars universe if it’s not something directly depicted. However, given that Ackbar led the New Republic Fleet at that time and Thrawn served as his main adversary, the narrative felt like I was exploring Star Wars history in this context.

Despite the many changes over the years, there are some constants that I prefer to hold onto. Introducing Thrawn into this era isn’t an innovative move on my part; it’s simply a part of the established lore. In our current timeframe, Thrawn is an integral figure, and given Ackbar’s introduction as the main leader, I was eager to see their dynamic unfold. To some extent, it’s self-indulgent – I want to witness this storyline play out.

Filoni’s comments are quite thrilling, mainly because he seems eager to witness epic Star Wars space battles, particularly one involving grand admirals. This battle is expected to be a massive space confrontation with substantial fleets on each side. Yet, it’s also intriguing that Filoni acknowledges he might not be introducing anything entirely new by matching Admiral Ackbar and Thrawn, given the existing lore from Legends and the original Expanded Universe.

Ahsoka Season 2 Will Give Admiral Ackbar The Redemption He Deserves

Unceremoniously Killed In The Last Jedi

In “Return of the Jedi,” Admiral Ackbar debuted, orchestrating the Rebel Alliance’s final push against the second Death Star. He is particularly remembered for his famous line, “It’s a Trap!“. However, it was later revealed in other “Star Wars” stories that Ackbar was an accomplished strategist and skilled commander. His military career started during the Clone Wars within the ranks of the Mon Calamari people.

In “The Last Jedi,” the character Ackbar met his end, but fans felt that his death was not given proper significance as the First Order destroyed the bridge of the Raddus, taking Ackbar and all others on board (except General Leia Organa). Fans had to read the graphic novel adaptation of “The Last Jedi” to learn what Ackbar’s final words were, which weren’t audible in the movie: “Torpedoes incoming. It’s been an honor serving with you all.” Thus, Ackbar’s appearance in season 2 of “Ahsoka” provides a fantastic chance for this admiral to receive the attention and recognition he deserves that he may not have gotten before.

Admiral Ackbar vs Thrawn Isn’t All That New

They Were Epic Rivals In Legends

According to Filoni, the confrontation between Ackbar and Thrawn was deeply rooted in the Expanded Universe, which now consists of stories that are no longer considered canon (known as Legends). The strategic showdown between these two admirals was a significant highlight in Timothy Zahn’s Thrawn trilogy, showcasing the intellectual prowess of both characters. Additionally, their fleet battles were legendary, and Thrawn attempted to launch an attack on Ackbar’s homeworld, Mon Cala, within the Expanded Universe.

Considering that, it’s truly thrilling to witness Filoni respecting the Star Wars lore and the foundational elements of the Legends series. Yet, it’s equally enjoyable to notice Filoni acting as a devoted fan and expressing his desire for an intense rivalry to unfold on screen. It’s worth noting that Filoni’s profound affection, enthusiasm, and familiarity with the franchise significantly contribute to the appeal and quality of his Star Wars storytelling, given his long-standing fandom.

Ahsoka season 2 is set to release in 2026 and will be streaming on Disney+.

Check out more of our Star Wars Celebration coverage:

  • Star Wars Celebration: All Panels & Times
  • Star Wars Celebration Live Blog Day 2 – Ahsoka & Andor Panel Updates
  • Star Wars Celebration:Live Blog Day 1 – The Mandalorian & Grogu and Lucasfilm Animation Updates
  • All 8 Things We Just Learned About The Next Star Wars Movie, The Mandalorian & Grogu
  • Star Wars Starfighter Announced: Next Star Wars Movie Releases In 2027, Five Years After Rise Of Skywalker & Stars Ryan Gosling
  • Darth Maul Returns In First Look At Maul: Shadow Lord, New TV Show That Fulfils George Lucas’ Sequel Trilogy Plans
Upcoming Star Wars Movies Release Date
The Mandalorian & Grogu May 22, 2026
Star Wars: Starfighter May 28, 2027

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2025-04-20 05:20

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