Why Disney should renew The Acolyte for Season 2

Why Disney should renew The Acolyte for Season 2

As a lifelong Star Wars enthusiast who has followed the franchise through its highs and lows, I find myself deeply saddened by the cancellation of “The Acolyte.” Having grown up with the original trilogy, I’ve always yearned for something new and fresh in the galaxy far, far away. This series seemed to be exactly that – a bold step into uncharted territory, promising a female-centric narrative set in an intriguing era of Star Wars lore.


The show known as “The Acolyte” has sadly been terminated following its initial season, yet it has subtly hinted at potential future installments. Below are the compelling reasons why this Star Wars series deserved another season!

Caution: This article contains SPOILERS for The Acolyte Season 1 

Viewers of streaming series are aware that it’s possible for a show that appears fantastic and gathers a loyal fanbase to unexpectedly get the axe. Netflix has developed a reputation for doing this, while unfortunately, Disney+ has terminated some potentially successful shows like “Renegade Nell” and “American Born Chinese.” However, cancelling a Star Wars series after just one season is an entirely different story.

In this rephrased version, I will attempt to convey the original text in a more casual and conversational tone:

Despite some criticism regarding its speed and mood, the series could have been more impactful in its plot development. The final episode left us hanging as Osha chose to side with the antagonist Quim (played by Manny Jacinto). On the other hand, Jedi Master Vernestra accused the late Sol of all the Jedi deaths, but she secretly suspected Quim (her ex-apprentice) was involved. She contacted Mae (whose memories were wiped out by Quim to protect her) to help locate him.

It appeared as though The Acolyte was laying the groundwork for a second season, but unfortunately, that didn’t happen and it got canceled instead. Although some Star Wars enthusiasts might be pleased, there are indeed compelling arguments why The Acolyte should have been given another chance.

There was a great chance for improvement

Why Disney should renew The Acolyte for Season 2

To put it straightforwardly: There were some flaws in the show that we can’t ignore. The script had moments of uneven quality, and at times, the pace felt inconsistent. Two episodes heavily focused on flashbacks of the same event might have been too much for some viewers. Compared to other Star Wars shows, it seemed like it could have streamlined its storytelling more effectively. Admittedly, it didn’t reach the highest echelons of Star Wars quality.

As a gamer, I’ve found myself in many situations where I initially dislike a game, but as I keep playing, it transforms into something truly enjoyable. Similar experiences can be found in the realm of sci-fi TV shows. Many series, including Star Trek: The Next Generation, were criticized for their first season, yet they went on to become beloved classics. It’s fascinating how some shows manage to make significant improvements from one season to another.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but feel that if the producers had taken our reactions into account during the first season – understanding what resonated and what didn’t – they could have fine-tuned this series for an even more spectacular second season. It’s disappointing and jarring to see yet another show with so much potential fall short, leaving us without the chance to witness its growth in a subsequent season.

The terrific character arcs deserved more time

Why Disney should renew The Acolyte for Season 2

Although there were criticisms from some viewers, the series still showcased captivating characters. Stenberg delivered an exceptional performance as both Osha and Mae, skillfully portraying the intricacies of each character and creating convincing differences between them using impressive special effects. The finale saw the two characters seemingly trading roles, with Osha moving towards the dark side and Mae being drawn back to the light. Developing this narrative in a second season would have been intriguing.

Additionally, the story delves into Qimir’s descent into darkness and potential justifications for his views against the Jedi, as well as Vernestra’s reluctance to believe a noble Jedi committed murder, which could have made her an intriguing character for Season 2 if further explored. The series sets up numerous opportunities for character development that could have flourished in another season.

There are mysteries left unsolved

Why Disney should renew The Acolyte for Season 2

As a gamer, I’m left pondering about the unanswered questions that The Acolyte has left behind after its one-year run. It’s not just about Osha and Mae’s fates, but also the enigma surrounding Qimir’s past and the mysterious figure he serves. There’s a lot to consider regarding Yoda’s response to the coverup and its impact on the Jedi Order. And let’s not forget the intriguing hint of Darth Plagueis (the Sith Lord who trained Palpatine) and how his presence could have shaped the narrative in Season 2, which now remains a tantalizing possibility. The showrunners certainly had some captivating storylines up their sleeves that are now left hanging in the balance.

The Jedi’s flaws should be explored

Why Disney should renew The Acolyte for Season 2

What made the series stand out was its bold portrayal of the Jedi as imperfect, even flawed. In fact, it underscored Luke’s statement in the sequels that the Jedi had deep-seated issues, such as taking children to train and adhering too strictly to traditions. The series highlighted how Osha and Mae’s tragedy could have been prevented if the Jedi hadn’t rushed to judgment about rescuing the children from witches who were actually providing them with good care.

In a potential turn of events for Season 2, the finale concealing the truth by a Jedi Master could have made an engaging narrative. The first season served as a compelling demonstration of how the Jedi’s unwavering adherence to their own principles led to their downfall, and another season could further elaborate on this theme.

It was something different 

Why Disney should renew The Acolyte for Season 2

Fans of Star Wars have often expressed dissatisfaction with the films focusing solely on the Skywalker Saga. However, this series diverged from tradition by not only being set a century in the past but also incorporating unique elements such as a Kyber crystal that bled, armor made of Cortosis that deactivated lightsabers, and a Wookiee as a Jedi. The action was intense, with several key characters meeting their untimely end in a surprising turn of events – a bold narrative choice.

Sure, we had lightsabers and blasters, yet also a leading Jedi who seemed a noble guy only to reveal his massive mistakes, so his final fate wasn’t as sad as it could have been. The series, in short, was not black and white, good vs evil, but shades of gray abounding. One can only think that Season 2 would have made it better. It’s baffling that after years of wanting something different, Star Wars fans reacted poorly when the franchise dared to try it and bring it for a new future. 

More of the High Republic Era

Why Disney should renew The Acolyte for Season 2

We had glimpses, yet it would have been so much better to see more of the High Republic Era. It would be great to see the Republic at its height, more of the issues of the Jedi, and delving deeper into the conflicts with the regular Republic government. It also could have stripped away the glossy surface and show the underbelly, the corruption in the government, the rise of criminal groups and the problems that paved the way for Palpatine’s takeover. It’s a great period in Star Wars lore, how this supposed “golden age” wasn’t so great and one wishes the franchise finds a way to bring it back to life. 

Don’t let the haters win

Why Disney should renew The Acolyte for Season 2

It’s unfortunate, perhaps, that some vocal Star Wars enthusiasts seem to revel in the cancellation of The Acolyte, a group often critical of Disney’s handling of the franchise. The fact that this disdain was expressed before the series even premiered, with accusations like it being “woke” or female-centric and, at times, downright bigoted comments, speaks volumes about their preconceived prejudices. These self-proclaimed fans despised it merely for being different, or for reasons far more nefarious, without giving it a fair chance to prove itself.

It appears that canceling the female-centric Star Wars show, set in an alternate time period, could be interpreted as validating the opinion that such a series was ill-conceived. This decision might suggest that deviating from the norm wasn’t feasible or successful. Canceling the show due to the vocal criticism of a small, toxic segment of the fandom sends a harmful message for the Star Wars franchise as a whole, as it may encourage similar negative responses in the future.

As a devoted fan, I must admit that while “The Acolyte” didn’t quite hit the mark in its initial release, it had the potential for some significant enhancements. The show boasted intriguing characters and an engaging setting, hinting at bigger, more captivating storylines yet to unfold. It’s a pity that we may not get to witness these developments unless Disney decides to reconsider their decision, as “The Acolyte” had the power to propel Star Wars into a promising future instead of being consigned to the past.

The Acolyte streaming on Disney+. 

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2024-09-07 19:27

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