“The Acolyte,” alternatively titled “Star Wars: The Acolyte,” is an upcoming American sci-fi television series conceptualized by Leslye Headland for Disney+, forming part of the expansive Star Wars universe. Positioned at the conclusion of the High Republic era, predating the events depicted in the principal Star Wars films, the narrative centers on a Jedi-led inquiry into a sequence of criminal activities. The cast includes Amandla Stenberg, Lee Jung-jae, Manny Jacinto, Dafne Keen, Charlie Barnett, Jodie Turner-Smith, Rebecca Henderson, Dean-Charles Chapman, Joonas Suotamo, and Carrie-Anne Moss. Headland’s involvement with the Star Wars universe was expressed by late 2019, with the development of a new series under Lucasfilm by April 2020. The series title was unveiled in December of that year. Principal photography occurred between October 2022 and June 2023 in London and Shinfield Studios in Berkshire, supplemented by on-location shoots in Wales and Portugal.
Premiering on Disney+ on June 4, 2024, with its initial duo of episodes, “The Acolyte” unfolds during the waning stages of the High Republic era, positioned roughly a century prior to the events depicted in “Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace” (1999). The story revolves around a revered Jedi Master embarking on an investigation of illicit activities, leading to a clash with a former Padawan apprentice and the revelation of malevolent forces at play.
CHARACTERS
- Amandla Stenberg portrays Mae, formerly a Padawan learner who has evolved into a formidable warrior.
- Lee Jung-jae embodies Sol, a highly respected Jedi Master, with the actor learning English specifically for the role.
- Manny Jacinto takes on the character of Qimir, a once-smuggler now leading a life of leisure.
- Dafne Keen portrays Jecki Lon, a young Padawan under Sol’s tutelage.
- Charlie Barnett assumes the role of Yord Fandar, a Jedi Knight known for his strict adherence to rules and his role as a temple guardian.
- Jodie Turner-Smith portrays Mother Aniseya, the leader of a coven of Force witches.
- Rebecca Henderson embodies Vernestra Rwoh, a prominent figure within the Jedi Order who gained recognition as a prodigy in her youth.
- Joonas Suotamo portrays Kelnacca, a Wookiee Jedi living a solitary existence.
- Carrie-Anne Moss appears as Indara, a Jedi Master skilled in “Force-fu” combat, with creator Leslye Headland envisioning her as the most powerful Jedi in any given setting and drawing inspiration from Moss’s portrayal of Trinity in The Matrix trilogy.
STORYLINE
“The Acolyte” plunges audiences into the intricate and mysterious realms of the Star Wars universe during the waning era of the High Republic, a hundred years prior to the iconic “Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace” (1999). Centered around a revered Jedi Master’s enthralling quest, the series embarks on a gripping journey into the heart of darkness, propelled by a compelling investigation into a series of malevolent crimes. This pursuit ultimately leads to a climactic confrontation with a former Padawan apprentice, shattering traditional notions of light and dark within the Force.
At its core lies the complex interplay between the Jedi Master and their estranged apprentice, whose destinies have diverged into vastly divergent paths. Amidst the unfolding narrative, themes of power, loyalty, and betrayal intertwine as the investigation delves into the murky depths of galactic corruption. As tensions escalate, the Jedi Master must confront their own haunted past while navigating treacherous political landscapes and long-buried secrets, testing their resolve and principles.
Set against the backdrop of a galaxy in upheaval, “The Acolyte” ensnares viewers in an enthralling tale of intrigue, suspense, and ethical ambiguity. As the Jedi Master ventures deeper into the shadows lurking at the fringes of the Force, they confront inner demons while striving to safeguard the delicate equilibrium between light and dark. With each revelation, the very essence of the Force is laid bare, challenging preconceived notions and reshaping the characters’ understanding of their universe and their roles within it.
