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Star Wars Rebels has taken a galaxy far, far away to brand new heights over its first three seasons- but which moments truly have left us at the edge of our seats?
A surviving Jedi Padawan. A Twi’lek freedom fighter. A Mandalorian turned bounty hunter. A war veteran from the planet of Lasat. An orphan boy strong with the Force. A Clone Wars era eccentric droid. A family created and brought together by war.
Star Wars Rebels has captured the hearts of Star Wars fans over the past three years with these amazing, gripping characters.
We’ve also been taken on a journey through a wide variety of different worlds and the fun creatures that come along with them.
With the show approaching it’s fourth and final season, there are so many amazing moments Rebels has given fans in a galaxy far, far away.
From our first encounter with the Ghost crew on Lothal, to the revelation of Fulcrum’s identity, to the epic duel of Darth Vader vs. Ahsoka, a Sith Lord who refuses to die, to the introduction of an infamous Chiss Admiral into the new Star Wars canon, and many, many more.
Like the Clone Wars animated series before it, Rebels has expanded the Star Wars galaxy to extreme new levels, providing us with a plethora of shocking and amazing moments.
Join us on a journey reliving the top 50 Rebels moments that will bring back the nostalgic feels and leave you breathless once again.
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50. C-3PO and R2-D2 are technically Imperial Droids.
Episode: Season 1 Episode 3: Droids in Distress
The Moment: C-3PO and R2-D2 accompany Minister Tui, an Imperial officer, on a journey via transport to the planet of Garel. The members of the Ghost crew(our main characters) happen to be on-board the same flight, smuggling cargo of a banned weaponry.
3PO, who was unaware of a secret mission that R2 knew fully of, betrays the Ghost crew accidentally to the Empire.
The end of the episode reveals that Imperial Senator Bail Organa was using the two droids to spy on the crew of The Ghost, in order to see if they were worthy enough of fully joining the rebel cause.
Why It’s Memorable: The two iconic droids have appeared in every Star Wars film or animated series ever released, continuing that trend in Rebels.
3PO is as clueless as ever, while R-2 knows everything that is going on(surprise, surprise), providing the slap-stick humor Star Wars fans have grown accustomed to.
The fact that these iconic droids are considered to be part of the Empire was a bit surprising. Bail Organa is part of the Imperial Senate, so his droids would have the same designation as well. It makes total sense.
I was so used to them being part of the rebellion, that I forgot of their label as (technically) one of the bad guys. It’s also a reminder of all that Organa risked while fronting as an Imperial loyalist, but secretly aiding, and even leading, the Rebel Alliance.
A Jedi proverb spoken by Organa to Kanan put a nice finishing touch on this episode, cleverly revealing to Kanan the true intentions of the so-called Imperial.
Not to mention Organa retrieving the recorded information on the crew from R2 was a nod to A New Hope when Princess Leia, his adopted daughter, did the same thing.
"“The simplest gesture of kindness can fill a galaxy with hope.”"
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49. Wedge defects from the Empire and joins the Rebel Alliance
Episode: Season 3 Episode 4: The Antilles Extraction
The Moment: Skystrike academy is home to the best Imperial flight school in the galaxy. We find among the students Wedge Antilles, who later would be a major hero for the Rebel Alliance.
Rebel agents had received word that Antilles, and a handful of other cadets, were seeking to defect from the Empire. With the help of rebel Sabine Wren, Antilles and his comrades are able to escape to the refuge of the Rebels.
It was no easy task, however, but with the skills of Antilles and Sabine, and with the aid of Kanan and Ezra, the rebels were able to slip through the clutches of high ranking Imperials Governor Pryce and Agent Kallus.
Why It’s Memorable: Wedge Antilles is the most underrated and overlooked hero in the Star Wars galaxy. Jedi Luke Skywalker is the one known for blowing up the first Death Star, while Lando Calrissian and Nien Numb are the ones who get credit for destroying the second edition of the planet killer.
Without the aid of Wedge Antilles on both victories, the Death Star would still be in one piece and fully operational.
In addition to these heroics, Antilles was crucial to the establishment of the New Republic after the events of Return of the Jedi, primarily as a reconnaissance pilot. He was also responsible for training the next generation of pilots, including hot shot flyer Snaps Wexley.
Getting an origins story on the underrated pilot was a nice gesture by the Lucasfilm Story Group, who also took notice of this neglected hero.
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48.The Iron Squadron holds their own against the Empire
Episode: Season 3 Episode 8: The Iron Squadron
The Moment: The Ghost crew aids the occupants on the planet of Mykapo in escaping the hostility of the Empire.
The rebels encounter a small contingency of Imperial forces but are able to defeat them with the help of a group that calls themselves the Iron Squadron.
It is revealed that their captain, Mart, is related to Commander Sato, the leader of the Rebel cell Phoenix Squadron. Mart is also a teenager, as well as the rest of his crew.
Iron Squadron is humbled when they try to take on a large Imperial presence. Commander Sato saves the day, preventing his nephew Mart and his crew from being killed in battle.
Before they escape, Commander Sato has a brief conversation with Grand Admiral Thrawn, with both showing a bit of respect for one another before they part ways.
Why It’s Memorable: Seeing the younger generation step up and take leadership always makes me smile. It’s no different when it happens in a Galaxy far, far away.
It’s also a good lesson in humility, as well. The rag tag team of teenagers achieved a few minor victories and thought they could single-handedly defeat the Empire on their own. This moment taught you to know your limits, as well as relying on others and not just yourself.
Commander Sato, though kind, has always been a rough and tough Commander. Seeing his softer side showed that he cares so much about the Rebellion and is willing to do whatever it takes to protect them and his family.
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47. The origins of Empire Day
Episode: Season 1 Episode 8: Empire Day
The Moment: During the reign of the evil Galactic Empire, they celebrated an annual Empire Day. In this episode, we find the Ghost crew on Lothal during the festivities of Empire Day celebrations. The Empire is releasing a new TIE Fighter design and plans to show it off to the entire galaxy. The rebels have different plans, however, and take action to blow up the design to make a statement to the Galaxy.
They do so, leaving no big impact, and are pursued by Imperial agents Kallus and the Grand Inquisitor. We learn that Ezra was born on Empire Day, revealing his motivations for rebelling against the Empire. The episode ends with Ezra learning that his parents might still be alive.
Why It’s Memorable: From the point of view of all the films in Star Wars, the Empire has always been viewed as the bad guy. In this episode, however, we learn that a majority of the galaxy didn’t view them in the same light. Most people viewed the rebels as insurgents and the Empire as peacekeepers. It was a nice touch showing an actual celebration of the birth of the Empire, similar to how Americans celebrate their Independence Day.
We also get a different rendition of the Empire’s theme, in a more upbeat and festive tone. I thought that was a brilliant way to display the mood the Empire was trying to create. The moment ties in with Ezra, who views Empire Day in a totally different light. With the celebration being a time of joy for most, it’s a time of despair for him. We then get clues that Ezra’s parents might still be alive, which we will see later on.
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46.Podracing is still popular Galaxy wide
Episode: Season 3 Episode 1: Steps into Shadow
The Moment: Ezra retreats to his quarters to gather his thoughts after the use of a Sith Holocron(more on that later on) has left him seeking more answers.
In the background of his personal space shown above, you can see a poster in the top right corner of podracer Ben Quadinaros. You might recognize him from Episode I: The Phantom Menace as one of the many racers of that epic podracing scene. Quadinaros gets ambushed by podracing champ Sebulba, and his podracer malfunctions hindering him from even starting the race.
Why It’s Memorable: The Quadinaros poster is a nod to the episode The Rise of Clovis from the Clone Wars animated series, where you can see a similar design on the wall of Anakin Skywalker’s Jedi quarters. That particular image shows both Quadinaros and Sebulba going at it during a podracing event.
The lack of Sebulba on this poster makes me wonder if Sebulba was finally knocked off of his pedestal after losing to Anakin Skywalker, leveling the playing field for racers such as Quadinaros. Maybe the Toong racer had climbed the ranks to even the best podracer in the galaxy by the time of Star Wars Rebels.
It also brings up a few more questions, such as: did Anakin Skywalker ever get back into the podracing game? Also, if Ezra is a fan of the Galactic sport, did he ever venture onto the race track? He is a fantastic pilot, as we see throughout the Rebels series. We can only hope that Lucasfilm is not done with the podracing story arcs. Maybe our homeboys Anakin and Ezra will make a cameo, taking home the 1st place prize!
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45. Space whales are responsible for hyperspace travel
Episode: Season 2 Episode 15: The Call
The Moment: The Ghost crew gets stranded in space low on fuel and encounter a pod of space whales, known in Star Wars as purrgil.
While stranded, the Phantom( the ghost crew’s ship), is waiting for reinforcements from Phoenix squadron and are bombarded by these space creatures.
Hera, the ship’s captain, initially wants to attack the purrgil, but Ezra tells her to hold off. Strong in the Force, in particular with the art of connecting with living creatures, Ezra is able to make a deep, positive connection with the purrgil.
Why It’s Memorable: Ezra’s connection to living things in the Force has always been on full display in Rebels. It’s even got he and his master Kanan out of a few sticky situations.
Even though Ezra has at times flirted with the dark side, his behavior here shows the goodness that lies within his soul. Later on, when he fights an Inquisitor in the 7th sister, he refuses to harm her as well. Ezra also was able to withstand the advances of Maul’s offer to join in as a dark side apprentice.
Being able to connect with wild animals is something we’ve seen only one time in the films when Anakin Skywalker is able to calmly control the mind of a beastly reek. The fact that Ezra is able to do the same, and at a higher level, is showing us just how powerful and how much potential Ezra has within the Force. Hyperspace travel apparently originated in these curious space whales. We see them travel in hyperspace at the conclusion of this episode, which is a really cool spectacle.
It made me wonder though, what means or methods did space travelers use in the past that allowed them to use the purrgil as a source for traveling in hyperspace? Were they able to preserve the life of the creature? Or did they have to destroy them in the process? If so, we know that Ezra would not agree with these methods.
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44. An infiltrator droid lands on Chopper Base
Episode: Season 3 Episode 14: Warhead
The Moment: A mysterious pod lands on the Phoenix Squadron’s rebel base of Atollon, which contains what appears to be a protocol droid. With the rest of Phoenix Squadron and the Ghost crew off base for missions, the two droids( Chopper and AP-5), as well as Zeb, are tasked with holding down the fort.
The visiting protocol droid ends up being an assassin modeled droid who was sent by the Empire to track down the many hidden rebel bases across the galaxy. Zeb and the droid, EXD-9, get into a physical altercation when the droid’s attack mode is activated. With the help of AP-5 and Chopper, as well as a warning from the mysterious Fulcrum, they are able to best the droid.
However; they are unable to wipe the droids memory and the self-destruct mode begins. The trio are able to fool the droid into retreating back to the Imperial base, destroying a Super Star destroyer in the process. Grand Admiral Thrawn is able to narrow down the location of Phoenix Squadron with his precise calculations, and the apparent victory ends up being a loss for these trio of rebels.
Why It’s Memorable: The standard focus of Rebels tends to showcase the Jedi and Mandalorian story arcs more so than not. So when there is a change of pace and we are given a fun episode featuring droids, it’s a welcomed treat.
The banter and sassiness of both AP-5 and Chopper are quite amusing, giving Rebels a little bit of what we get in the Star Wars films with R2-D2 and C-3P0.
This moment also displayed the leadership skills within Zeb, who is normally portrayed as the muscle of the group. His leadership and self-sacrifice displayed in this episode added much-needed growth for the character.
The EXD-9 droid was based on old Ralph Mcquarrie artwork for the original trilogy, which was drawn as the potential design for C-3PO, but never used. Dave Filoni’s nods to the Original Trilogy add a nice touch to Rebels, showing his appreciation for those who paved the way for him.
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43. Zeb and Ezra shop for a meiloorun
Episode: Season 1 Episode: 4: Fighter Flight
The Moment: Hera tasks both Zeb and Ezra to make a supply run in the main commerce area of Lothal. On the list, Hera adds a rare meiloorun, which she does not expect the duo to find. It’s revealed that the sole purpose of their errand is to give the two much-needed bonding time.
Surprisingly, they are able to to find some meilooruns in the marketplace. However; the duo gets into some Imperial trouble, and ends up losing all of the items they purchased while fleeing.
Zeb and Ezra encounter slaves who are on board a transport, and decide to help free them. After a long pursuit and a small battle, the two are able to free the grateful captives and steal a Tie Fighter in the process.
After hiding the TIE Fighter in a discrete location with plans to use it later, Ezra and Zeb return with a full crate of meilooruns.
Why It’s Memorable: Ezra and Zeb provide the big brother, little brother role for Rebels. Seeing them learn to appreciate one another and also express their typically un-shown love for each other is a nice lesson to teach the younger audience who is watching.
Seeing the every day oppression by the Empire displayed in the episode is a reminder to the audience of what the Rebels are truly fighting for.
Including meilooruns was a nice nod to the legends novel X-Wing: Wedge’s Gamble, where it made its first appearance. The rare fruit also made a cameo in the canon novel Rogue One: Catalyst. Anytime the Story group makes a nod to a legends novel and shows their love for old school stories makes for a great moment for fans.
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42. Hera flies a Mon Calamri ship
Episode: Season 2 Episode 7: Wings of the Master
The Moment: While providing relief for an oppressed planet, the Ghost crew gets interrupted by a blockade of Imperial Star Destroyers. Hera decides to take their smaller vessel The Phantom, down to the surface of the planet Shantipole so they can acquire a better ship to get through the blockade of enemy ships.
Landing on the planet is a tough task and many aircraft in the past have crash landed due to the harsh environment while entering the planet.
Hera shows off her excellent piloting skills and is able to safely land on the surface. She then rendezvous with a Mon Cal pilot Quarrie, in order to convince him to let her borrow his B-Wing ship to penetrate the blockade.
Quarrie states that only a worthy pilot is allowed to fly his B-Wing, but Hera is able to convince him to let her pilot the ship. Hera then uses the elusive vessel to break through the Imperial blockade and the Ghost crew is able to provide much-needed relief to the Ibaarian people
Why It’s Memorable: This moment really showcases the piloting skills of Hera, which were only alluded to before on the show. I would put her skills up there with the best of the best ( Anakin, Luke, Wedge, and Plo Koon).
Hera also has amazing leadership skills, which are on full display when she takes charge of this mission. Leading by example is always a good lesson to teach the audience, especially the young kids that watch the show.
It’s also really cool to see a Mon Cal character, which also includes Admiral Ackbar( it’s a trap!) and Admiral Raddus from Rogue One.
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41. Sabine was a bounty hunter
Episode: Season 2 Episode 8: Blood Sisters
The Moment: On the planet of Garel, the Ghost crew encounters a bounty hunter by the name of Ketsu Onyo. Through the eyes of Ezra Bridger, we learn that she has a past with rebel Sabine Wren. Ketsu had once saved Sabine while they were both cadets at the Imperial academy together. We also learn that the duo had plans of joining the crime syndicate known as the Black Sun in the past, but Sabine was betrayed by Ketsu before that plan became reality.
Ketsu, Sabine, and the entire Ghost crew encounter Imperial forces and are forced to work together in order to survive.
With a chance to leave, Ketsu is faced with the choice of either saving her own skin or saving her old friend Sabine. She decides to help her old pal( and her crew), and they are all able to escape the Imperials.
Once landing back on their rebel base, Sabine thanks Ketsu for her assistance and then offers the invitation of joining the rebellion. Ketsu says no, for now, but her and Sabine are back in good graces with one another.
Why It’s Memorable: Depth, depth, and more depth. Up until this point, Sabine had really been a one-dimensional character. We knew that she was a Mandalorian, had roots as a bounty hunter who is really handy with explosives, and also a creative artist.
Although those things are really cool, as well as her awesome modified Mando armor, we didn’t know much else about her. Sabine was lacking something. That’s where character development comes into play, one thing that Dave Filoni and his crew really excel at. This episode provided a bit of a backstory on Sabine and her specific ties to the Imperial academy. It also showed the reason for her eventually joining the Ghost crew.
In addition to showing her ties as bounty hunter and past connections, it set up future episodes with her past as a Mandalorian, which we will get to later in the countdown.
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40. The Lasat species is alive and well
Episode: Season 2 Episode 14: The Legends of Lasat
The Moment: With Intel from a shady space pirate, the Ghost crew rescues two members of the Lasat species who are the same species as one of the main characters Zeb.
The two recognize Zeb and reveal him as a former soldier and honor guard leader of their people. Zeb is apprehensive of the two, but we find out that his past is complicated. Zeb had thought his people as dead and the two that he encounters here are a few religious zealots that Zeb wants no part of.
The duo asks the Ghost crew for help navigating a Nebula, which apparently leads to the relocation of their people from their destroyed planet. With the help of Zeb, and his multi-purpose bo-staff, the crew are able to navigate through the turbulent Nebula and discover that a new Lira San, their home planet, had been settled. The episode ends with the two joining a remnant of former survivors, with Zeb continuing on his way with the rebels.
Why It’s Memorable: Wild space! Anytime a Star Wars story ventures into the unknown, it sparks my interest. Wild Space and the Unknown regions — the origins of Grand Admiral Thrawn, as well as the place where the Empire later retreated to after their defeat during their conflict with the Rebellion, later reforming as the First Order.
For the first time, we found out that Zeb was not the only survivor of his kind. After being wiped out by the Empire, or so we thought, Zeb felt responsible for letting his people down as a soldier. Having that piece of Zeb’s history revealed his motivations for wanting help the rebellion and the reason he fronts as a tough guy. Now we really now there is a softer side to the giant and he does care about others more than he lets on.
39. Gold Leader and Ezra team up
Episode: Season 3 Episode 18 Secret Cargo
The Moment: After smuggling precious cargo, Senator Mon Mothma herself, Ezra and Jon Vander (Gold leader of the Rebel Alliance) venture into the Archeon Nebula to protect their rebel leader. In a daring effort to evade an Imperial fleet, Ezra and Vander are able to successfully protect their Senator at all costs, even risking their own lives.
The remaining Y-wings from the battle, including the ones flown by Ezra and Vander, are then taken to the secret rebel base, at the time, Dantooine.
Why It’s Memorable: Gold leader standing by! That’s what echoed through my head when Jon Vander was introduced in Rebels. This was a defining moment for Rebels since it is starting to shape its identity closer to that of A New Hope.
At this point, Rebels is about 2 years away from the events of Rogue One, so the Rebel Alliance is officially taking form. Connecting character from Rebels to those of the film gives the animated show a ton more credibility.
This moment featured Ezra as a pilot and man is he a good one. We’ve seen his skills before, but nothing like this. His performance assisting Gold Squadron earned the praise of their crew, which is very hard to come by. It was also a very nice touch with Ezra donning a Rebel Alliance helmet that you later see in the Original Trilogy. Ezra, welcome to the elite territory as a Star Wars legend!
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38. Ezra infiltrates the Imperial Academy
Episode: Season 1 Episode 6: Breaking Ranks
The Moment: Here we find Ezra weeks into his training in the Imperial Academy. In fact, he is inching closer to graduation, which never comes. To be fair, that was never the goal.
Ezra’s initial mission was to go undercover and retrieve some classified Imperial information.
Jai Kell, a Force-sensitive cadet, is befriended by Ezra during their training. Ezra learns that the Grand Inquisitor is interested in the young Kell due to his Force sensitivity.
That shifts Ezra’s goal and he recruits the help of another classmate in Zare Leonis, who is a secret Rebel sympathizer. With Zare’s help, they are able to successfully rescue and then hide, Kell and his mother from the Grand Inquisitor of the Empire.
Why It’s Memorable: This is the first time on screen that we are taken into the training of Imperial Stormtroopers. More often than not they are a punchline to jokes due to their perceived inaccuracy with firearms. This moment really displays the rigorous training and skill that Stormtroopers actually posses.
Anytime a Force-sensitive youngling appears in Star Wars content, that really intrigues me. Its a sad reminder of what the Jedi used to be and what these younglings could have been.
This is also another example of Ezra’s kindness and putting himself on the line to protect others. Ezra’s abilities are also showcased in this episode, showing his true power and potential within the Force.
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37. Kanan confronts Fenn Rau of Concord Dawn
Episode: Season 2 Episode 13: The Protector of Concord Dawn
The Moment: After entering Mandalorian controlled space, Hera is severely injured while engaging them in combat via the Phantom.
Kanan decides to seek out those responsible (The Protectors of Concord Dawn) for Hera’s injuries, in order to peacefully ask them for access to their air-space. Meanwhile, Sabine secretly stows away on Kanan’s vessel to seek revenge via violence. Kanan and Sabine land on the third moon of Concord Dawn, and Kanan tracks down the leader of the Protectors Fenn Rau.
Seeking a diplomatic solution to gaining airspace, Kanan requests from Rau access to travel in their controlled air-space. Rau refuses, but Kanan reveals that he’s encountered the Mandalorian protector before.
During the Clone Wars when Kanan was a Padawan, Rau had saved he and his Master Depa Bilaba’s life during a battle against the Separatists.
Kanan then bests Rau in combat, disarming him and knocking him out, kidnapping him. Rau then contacts his Protectors, informing them not to turn over the rebels to the Empire and also giving them access to their airspace.
Why It’s Memorable: Another layer of depth is added to Sabine’s character, showing her deeper connection to the Mandalorian people.
Kanan and Rau’s connection was first shown in Kanan: The Last Padawan comic run, showing the very battle mentioned in Rebels. This again shows the attention to detail the Lucasfilm Story Group pays, but not forcing the connection. They will only add these Easter eggs if the story allows it.
This also shows that Kanan embraces the Jedi way of not seeking revenge, while on the flip side Sabine shows the revenge and violence that has engulfed her people’s culture for thousands of years.
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36. Hondo Ohnaka returns
Episode: Season 2 Episode 6: Brothers of the Broken Horn
The Moment: Ezra receives a random distress call from a vessel called the Broken Horn, which is owned by a shady character in Vizago. The ship is currently manned from non-other than the famous space pirate Hondo Ohnaka.
Hondo apparently had stolen the ship and has Vizago locked away. Vizago, with the help of partner Azmorigan and his droids, is able to escape.
After a small battle within the ship, Hondo is able to help Ezra escape with the prized goods he was after( some generators).
Why It’s Memorable: Hondo! The famous pirate from The Clone Wars era is back. In the past Hondo was able to get the best of Jedi Knights, the Sith Lord Count Dooku, and even Maul.
When we meet an aged Hondo, who apparently has lost all of his fortune, planet, and men to the Empire; we don’t know whether to trust him or not. Hondo is not as menacing as he once was and is more used for slapstick humor in Rebels, but the wildcard nature of this old pirate still makes for fun moments!
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35. Rex and Kanan go undercover
Episode: Season 2 Episode 9: Stealth Strike
The Moment: With the Commander of Phoenix Squadron and Ezra Bridger apprehended by Imperial forces, Kanan and clone trooper Rex go undercover to break them out.
They break into the defenses of an Imperial Interdictor, disguised as Imperial Stormtroopers. Commander Sato and Ezra are eventually rescued by the duo and destroy the Interdictor. The episode ends with Rex and Kanan saluting one another, showing respect to one another after a very rocky start to their relationship.
Why It’s Memorable: Kanan and Rex’s relationship took a tremendous step forward in this moment. Kanan, who is still reeling from his Master being gunned down by Clone Troopers during Order 66, still doesn’t trust Rex. Forcing those two to work together aided in the eventual blossoming of a friendship later on.
What Kanan does not realize, and I hope he finds this out, is that one of the Clone Troopers who killed his Master aided in his safe escape from Order 66, with the clone sacrificing his life in the process. That was shown in the Kanan: Last Padawan comic.
Rex making wisecracks about the Stormtroopers armor and their inability to shoot gives me a chuckle. It also shows self-awareness from the Lucasfilm team of the perception of the ineffectiveness of most Stormtroopers.
That military salute at the end is a brilliantly written moment, with the two showing major props to one another. For a Jedi and clone to show that gesture is the sign of utmost respect. A major step up from when Kanan and Rex first met, that’s for sure.
34. Ahsoka owns the 5th Brother and 7th Sister
Episode: Season 2 Episode 10: The Future of the Force
The Moment: The episode starts when two Inquisitors massacre a freighter in search of a Force-sensitive child.
After discussing recent Jedi business, Ahoska, Kanan, Ezra, and a few others head to the planet of Takobo, in order to rescue two Force-sensitive younglings.
After rescuing the two younglings, Kanan and Ezra are both bested by the pair of Inquisitors. Before they can land the death blow to the two, Ahsoka arrives to save the day.
Ahsoka makes quick work of the two Inquisitors, but Imperial forces arrive, allowing the two dark side enforcers to be rescued, with Ahsoka then escaping with the rest of the Ghost crew.
Why It’s Memorable: Ahsoka is a boss, nuff said. This moment showcases even further that, even though no longer a Jedi, Ahsoka now has the skills of a seasoned Jedi Master.
She also ignited two white lightsaber blades, the first time we’ve ever seen white sabers within the Star Wars canon. We learn how those are formed, so check that story out in the Ahoska novelization by E.K Johnston.
“You are beaten”, a line originally used in the Clone Wars, when Ahsoka had bounty hunter Cad Bane on the fridge of defeat, she uses again when the two Inquisitors are facing that same potential fate. I love how they show that Ahsoka still has a little Snips in her even though she is much more mature.
This moment was also a mirror of a story arc in the Clone Wars when Darth Sidious is collecting Force-sensitive children. Come to find out, a hand full of those were turned into the now Inquisitors, while others were experimented on and even worse. The same fate was about to face these two younglings, but the rebels saved the day.
Later on, we also learn where these young ones, and where surviving Jedi also were taken.
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33. Chopper steals the show
Episode: Season 2 Episode 19: The Forgotten Droid
The Moment: Chopper, feeling left out from the rest of the group, decides to take off on his own for a bit. Being a Clone Wars era droid, he doesn’t have all of the original parts that he once had. He finds a vendor who has a leg that matches his original set, and ventures out to acquire this part.
Chopper accidentally boards an Imperial freighter, where he meets an inventory droid named AP-5. After a series of fun events, Chopper escapes, but at the sacrifice of his new droid friend, who saves his life. Instead of using his newly acquired leg-part for himself, Chopper uses it to restore AP-5 to normal function.
Why It’s Memorable: Who thought an episode about a rogue droid would be a lot of fun and a well-written one as well? Not me, I’ll admit. But I gave the episode a chance and it was a pleasant surprise. Having an episode featuring Chopper was risky and could have really flopped. But the boldness of the writing team paid off, adding some depth to the droid, as well.
Chopper was once a Clone War droid who crashed in an A-Wing and was then saved by a young Hera. Now we see how Chopper was considered a war hero, with his bravery displayed in this episode. His self-sacrifice, which I thought was non-existent in this droid, was in full force.
This moment reveals Chopper to be more than just a family pet and he raised his stock closer to the epic and legendary status of R2-D2. We also find out in Rogue One that Chopper is still alive, so I’m eager to learn how he and Hera’s roles expand once the Rebel Alliance is in full swing.
32. Mon Mothma calls out the Emperor
Episode: Season 3 Episode 18: “Secret Cargo
The Moment: For about 17 years, Senator Mon Mothma from Chandrila fought the Empire from within the system. When she realized that was not working, she took a different approach. This is the speech that made Mon Mothma number one on the Emperor’s most wanted list:
"“This is Senator Mon Mothma, I have been called a traitor for speaking out against a corrupt Galactic Senate. A Senate manipulated by the sinister tactics of the Emperor. For too long I have watched the heavy hand of the Empire strangle our liberties, stifling our freedoms in the name of ensuring our safety. No longer! Despite Imperial threats, despite the Emperor himself, I have no fear as I take new action. For I am not alone. Beginning today we stand together as allies. I hereby resign from the Senate to fight for you, not from the distant hall of politics but from the front lines. We will not rest until we bring an end to the Empire, until we restore our Republic! Are you with me?“"
Why It’s Memorable: I think the Senator’s speech says it all. Talk about taking an awful risk. If Mom Mothma actually knew who Emperor Palpatine really was. But judging from this speech, I don’t think the fact that he’s an evil Sith Lord would have stopped her. First appearing in Return of the Jedi, Mothma shows once again why people follow her. Leading by example.
No wonder when the Empire is finally defeated she becomes the first Chancellor within the re-established Republic. This woman can straight out lead. I would follow her into the depths of Malachor any day!
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31. The Return to Ryloth
Episode: Season 3 Episode 5: Hera’s Heroes
The Moment: Hera returns to her home planet of Ryloth with the Ghost crew to aid her father, Cham Syndulla, from the continued Imperial threat on the planet. Grand Admiral Thrawn overwhelms the Twi’lek people with his brilliant strategy and occupies the planet, as well as Cham’s residence.
Thrawn being the collector of art that he is, adds the Syndulla family kalikori to his prized collection. Ezra and Hera sneak into the residence undercover, but Thrawn easily uncovers their attempt at secrecy. The duo escapes and Hera earn Thrawn’s respect with her brilliant military mind and strategy, that he can emphasize with.
Why It’s Memorable: Anytime I read Grand Admiral Thrawn on the pages of a novel or now see him in Rebels, I’m on the edge of my seat. Rebels add the perfect devious, yet classical style music which sets the tone for the Chiss Admiral perfectly.
In the Clone Wars series, Cham Syndulla became a character that I grew to love. His love for his planet and his people is an example that I can look up to in my own life.
His character was expanded in Lords of the Sith, where he went toe to toe with the Emperor and Darth Vader, holding his own (for a while) against the evil duo.
The Syndulla kalikori importance dates back generations and generations within Hera’s family. So when Thrawn takes it as a keepsake, Hera isn’t too happy about it. Her father informs her that their family lives on in their hearts and that’s all that matters. Personally, I’m with Hera on this one. I would also be ticked if I were in her shoes.
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30. Ezra uses the Sith Holocron
Episode: Season 3 Episodes 1-2: Steps Into Shadow
The Moment: It’s been about six months since Ezra’s life-changing trip to the Sith world Malachor. Feeling responsible for Kanan’s blindness and Ahsoka’s apparent death, he turns to the wisdom of an ancient Sith Holocron.
The artifact has been crucial in many victories for Ezra in battle, leading to a promotion as a Commander. The Holocron even speaks to Ezra, giving him the advice of using the dark side to gain victory. His Master Kanan finds out that Ezra is using the Holocron and forbids him to use it. On the next mission without it, Ezra fails in his mission when it costs the life of an Ugnaught he was trying to save.
Why It’s Memorable: The fact Ezra is able to open both a Sith Holocron and a Jedi Holocron is perplexing to me. Could it mean that Ezra is some sort of gray Jedi? (Which is a term that I don’t like btw). The most likely reason is that it displays that Ezra is now at a moment in his life where he is making a choice whether to embrace light or choose the dark side.
This is the first canon appearance of a Sith Holocron, with legends material holding many venues of these ancient Sith devices. Apparently, these things can talk to you (which is cool and creepy at the same time).
The Sith who created this Holocron is able to live on, somehow, through the artifact. I think in the same way that a Jedi connects with a kyber crystal with it being a living organism, the same rings true for Jedi/Sith Holocrons.
It’s also a safe bet that we will learn the mysterious presence of the Sith Holocron and that our two Jedi will venture into the Sith connected Massassi Temples that are located on Yavin 4 during Season four of Rebels.
29. Rex’s farewell to Ahsoka
Episode: Season 2 Episode 20: Twilight of the Apprentice Part 1
The Moment: In route to the planet Malachor, Ahoska contacts former Clone Captain (and friend) Rex, and the two have a conversation, reminiscing about the past. Ahoska tells Rex that she now has more experience than he does, while Rex highly encourages her to let him join their mission. Ahsoka refuses his help and the two end their transmission, in what could be their last ever conversation with one another.
Why It’s Memorable: When Ezra and Kanan return to home base after their adventure on Malachor without Ahsoka, the look on Rex’s face says a thousand words. He is devastated, expressing what the fans are feeling after Ahsoka’s duel with Darth Vader.
Their conversation is a major nod to the Clone Wars animated movie, where Rex and Ahsoka first meet when Rex tells her that experience outranks everything. She tells Rex that she needs to gain some experience if that’s the case. Now the roles are reversed and Ahsoka’s experience outranks that of even a war veteran, showing her maturity and growth. This is a very special moment for those who have consumed the Clone Wars series and one I was not expecting.
One thing that Dave Filoni and the Rebels crew does really well is not overdoing the connections to Clone Wars. They could easily make Rebels all about being a Clone Wars reunion show. However; when the moment allows for it naturally, like it does here, the payoff is huge. The thought of Ahsoka and Rex never meeting again really hits my heart hard. The thought also of not seeing Ahsoka alive ever again brings a tear to my eyes. Please say that Ahsoka lives, Dave Filoni!
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28. The Rebel fleet comes to the rescue
Episode: Season 3 Episodes 20 & 21: Zero Hour Parts 1-2
The Moment: Thrawn and his Imperial fleet discover the hidden rebel base known as Chopper Base. The Empire delivers a serious blow, destroying the base itself and most of the fleet of Phoenix Squadron.
Aiding in the rebels escape, the leader of Phoenix Squadron, Commander Sato, sacrifices his life, by crashing his personal ship into the Imperial fleet, allowing the others to escape. Sato was assisted by the surprise arrival of the full Rebel fleet, who also helps the survivors of the group to escape.
Thrawn then encounters the Bendu and (so he thinks) destroys the ancient creature. Bendu then prophesizes how Thrawn will die, leaving the normally cool and collected Chiss a little flustered. While in hyperspace, it is revealed that the group is on their way to the newly established headquarters of the Rebel Alliance located on the planetary moon Yavin 4.
Why It’s Memorable: This moment is one of those where we see Thrawn at his best. He had been playing the long game and in this battle decides to finally strike. I can see why Thrawn received that promotion, with the brilliant tactics he used in this battle.
His encounter with Bendu was a strange and curious one, to say the least. The words that Bendu leaves with Thrawn right before he becomes one with the Force ( I think?) is curious. He seems to predict his death, but the words are completely over my head. Total Filoni move!
Yavin 4! The first Rebel base we see on the big screen is now connected with Rebels, which means we are approaching the events of Rogue One. It also, most likely, means we will get to see our favorite Rebels on the base itself. Nostalgic feels, y’all!
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27. Saw Gerrea is found in Geonosis
Episode: Season 3 Episodes 12-13: Ghosts of Geonosis
The Moment: Set just two years before the events of Rogue One, we meet members of our Ghost crew on Geonosis, where we find rebel extremist Saw Gerrea. He is the lone survivor of a rebellion team that was sent to the desolate planet to find out why the planet seemed to be wiped out.
Saw, along with Ezra, Kanan, and Rex, encounter a surviving Geonosian, who is carrying (and protecting) an egg. We find out that is the egg of a Geonosian queen, who could help bring their people back from the brink of extinction. Using brutal tactics, Saw tries to get information out of the scared survivor, almost uncovering the origins of the Death Star. The group allows the Geonosian and the egg to survive and the group then leaves the desolate planet.
Why It’s Memorable: Once again, we are given a re-introduction to a Clone Wars veteran. Not just any veteran, but one with a jaded past. During the Clone Wars, Saw lost his home planet, his sister, and many of his people, which lead to the madman that we see later displayed in Rogue One.
It was fascinating to see that Saw had a little bit of humanity left when the Ghost crew finds him, but not much of it. I am actually a little surprised that Saw allowed the two surviving Geonosians to live. I would have ended them there and then with what I know about that despicable species.
A touching moment was when Ezra stumbled upon a holo-picture of Saw’s perished sister, Steela. It gave me flashbacks to the day that she was alive and well during the Clone Wars. The Death Star was originally constructed above the planet but was moved when the Imperials got wind of Gerrera’s attempt to find out what was going on. He came oh so close to learning of the Death Star before it eventually killed him and billions of others.
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26. Rex ends the Clone Wars on his own terms
Episode: Season 3 Episode 6: The Last Battle
The Moment: Kanan, Rex, and Ezra travel to an abandoned Separatist world in order to acquire some artillery for the rebels. When they arrive, they find an old tactical droid who still thinks the Clone War is raging on. The droid then activates the droid army he has at his disposal and forces the trio to engage in battle with his army.
The tactical droid can’t accept the fact that the Separatists lost the Clone War, so he wants to prove it against the two Jedi and a clone, who could simulate a Clone Wars-like scenario. After a series of battles and tests, Ezra expresses that no one won the Clone Wars and that both sides were meant to lose it. The droid then accepts that as being true and allows the trio to escape.
Why It’s Memorable: In this episode, we see that Rex does suffer from PTSD. I’m glad they brought that point up, reflecting that war takes a toll on those who are apart of it. We also get to see the brilliant Captain that Rex used to be, which gave me the feels once again.
Seeing a Master, an apprentice, and clone, brought me back to happier days when the Jedi order was alive and well. I wonder if we’ll ever see the Jedi at full strength again in the new trilogy? Well, the odds are low since the name of the film is The Last Jedi. I can dream, right?
This moment also displays the maturity of Ezra, who was able to redeem himself after almost getting the group killed earlier in the battle. His maturity was displayed when he figured out that the Clone Wars was a lose-lose battle. He was 100% correct, because Darth Sidious designed the war for both sides to lose and for the Jedi to die, no matter who else suffered as collateral damage. Savage!
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25. A Jedi and Sith Holocron joined
Episode: Season 3 Episode 3: Holocrons of Fate
The Moment: When Kanan and Ezra are on a mission for the Rebellion, they learn that Maul has kidnapped the rest of the Ghost crew. Maul is seeking to use both the Jedi Holocron of Kanan and the Sith Holocron that Ezra acquired on Malachor. The duo travels to Maul’s hidden base, learning that their friends are still alive. Maul tries to kill Kanan, but he is able to survive.
Maul forces Ezra to open the Jedi Holocron, which Maul cannot open, and Maul then opens the Sith Holocron. Come to find out, if you join those two ancient devices together, you can see into the future and gain vital information through the Force. Maul and Ezra both see visions, that aren’t completely clear, then the Holocrons cause a minor explosion, ending the vision prematurely.
Maul escapes via a Mandalorian vessel he acquired during the Clone Wars, thrilled that he had just learned that Obi-Wan Kenobi is in fact still alive.
Why It’s Memorable: Holocrons can be joined together? Say what?! The cool factor of Rebels is already at an all-time high by introducing not only Jedi Holocrons, but Sith ones as well. But adding to the lore that they can be joined and used to gain knowledge through the Force? Woah! This episode shows that Maul is still the same old same old deceiver, using Ezra to achieve his goal. Apparently ,that goal is to kill Obi-Wan Kenobi.
He lives. He lives! Maul echoed those words when he was escaping, leaving Rebels fans with a moment we will never forget when that first aired. Fans had been dying to see Kenobi (the old Ben version that is) and that alluded to what we would get later on. Thank you Filoni. Thank you!
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24. Hera reunites with her father
Episode: Season 2 Episode 16: Homecoming
The Moment: Hera is reunited with her father, who is seeking to make a bold statement against Empire. The Ghost crew aids Cham Syndulla in making a statement, by against their wishes at first, blowing up an Imperial vessel.
Why It’s Memorable: Family can sometimes be a drag, can’t they? That’s the case for Hera, who disagrees with her father’s obsession for freeing his own planet from the Empire and not caring about the larger cause. This moment really displays Hera’s leadership and compassion for everyone, not just her own people. Her father can take a lesson from his daughter in the art of the greater good. Ryloth being reintroduced was a really cool moment for its connection with the Clone Wars and its high presence in the novel Lords of the Sith.
Kanan, who is Hera’s boyfriend, is hilarious when trying to impress Cham. He is aware of the Clone Wars battle where Mace Windu showed why he is the bad man he claims to be. Did you know the Twi’lek people even wrote a song about the bravery of Mace Windu? And I thought having a purple lightsaber was cool!
Freddie Prinze’s acting is so diverse. He can play the calm, cool, and collected Jedi that he normally is. He can also be lighthearted and fun at different moments. That casting of Kanan was the smartest thing that Lucasfilm could have done when creating Rebels. In my opinion, the show doesn’t work without Freddie as Kanan.
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23. The Bendu is introduced
Episode: Season 3 Episodes 1-2: Steps into Shadow
The Moment: Kanan, and later Ezra, encounter an anomaly in the Force on Chopper base. Kanan, who is still reeling from losing his sight, stumbles upon a large and peculiar creature who calls himself the Bendu.
Bendu then teaches Kanan that he is imbalanced and that he needs to embrace the balance within himself. Kanan then gives the Sith Holocron to Bendu, in order to keep it hidden from Ezra who was using it against his wishes. Kanan had been spending much time in isolation, depressed, over his new state of being. But with the help of the Bendu, he decides to join the cause once again.
Why It’s Memorable: Did you know that the original name for the Jedi was going to be some combination of Jedi Bendu or Bendu? This shows that the writers of Rebels know not only history within the Star Wars Universe, but also with the creation and making of it.
Poor Kanan. Dude cannot catch a break. First his Master dies. Then the Jedi order gets wiped out. Then he gets dragged into another war that he doesn’t want any part of. Then while fighting in that conflict, loses his sight. I would be a little upset and depressed too.
Another cool moment was realizing that the voice actor for the Bendu played one of the Doctors on the British show Doctor Who. I’ve never seen it myself, but my friends who have totally freaked out when they learned that.
22. Rex becomes an ally of the Ghost crew
Episode: Season 2 Episode 3: The Lost Commanders
The Moment: Ahsoka instructs the Ghost crew to travel to the Seelos system, in order to track down an old ally of hers, to receive Intel on potential Rebel bases. When the crew arrives, they discover that the ally of Ahsoka happens to be three surviving, and aged, clone troopers from the era of the Clone Wars.
Rex, Gregor, and Wolfe are found to be happy in their retirement, while the sight of the clones triggers a bad memory in Kanan, that of his Master and the Jedi order falling during Order 66. Kanan reacts by igniting his lightsaber in order to kill them but calms down.
The Imperials arrive, after Gregor betrays the group out of old habit to the Empire. Working together, the Ghost crew and the former clone troopers are able to escape. Rex decides to join the group in their travels back to their rebel base, with the Intel, while the two other clones are content where they are. The episode ends with Ahsoka and Rex reuniting, their first meeting since the day Order 66 was executed about 16 years before.
Why It’s Memorable: Seeing the trio of clones, especially Rex, brought nerd tears to my eyes. Rex is one of my favorite characters from the Clone Wars animated series. A brilliantly written moment by the writing crew was having Kanan interacting and dealing with those who helped cause so much loss in his life. Rex does reveal that the trio did not turn on their Jedi and that they removed their own microchips in order for them to avoid that fate.
This makes me wonder what role the three clones, especially Rex, have during the hay day of the Galactic War? Dave Filoni revealed that Rex does survive the events of Return of the Jedi and that we will see the other two clones again. Can I get an amen!
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21. Visions of Maul plague Ezra
Episode: Season 3 Episode 11: Visions and Voices
The Moment: While on the Rebel base known as Chopper Base, Ezra loses his sanity when visions of Maul flood his mind. He even mistakes a Rebel soldier for Maul and nearly kills him, if it was not for Kanan’s intervention. Maul then shows up when Kanan and Ezra are conversing with the Bendu. Ezra decides to leave the planet with Maul, in order to travel to Maul’s home planet of Dathomir.
During their visit, Maul is seeking more information from earlier when the two had seen a vision of Obi-Wan still alive. Using some old Nightsister witch-like magic, Maul is able to obtain the information he seeks, leaving Ezra to deal with the awoken spirits of the dead witches.
Sabine and Kanan arrive in order to rescue Ezra from Maul, but the crafty old man’s plan is already set in motion. The two are possessed by the spirits of the witches and turn on Ezra. Ezra destroys the altar, the source of the witches power, eliminating the threat, restoring Kanan and Sabine back to their normal state.
Why It’s Memorable: This episode may be the creepiest, yet coolest Star Wars show I’ve ever seen. It reminded me of an episode of Buffy the Vampire Slayer or Charmed. It was very dark for a so-called kids show. The moment also brings us back to Dathomir, where we spent much time on during the Clone Wars series. The witches were completely wiped out by the order of Darth Sidious, but apparently their spirits live on. I’m not sure their exact state, but that sense of mystery makes this moment even scarier.
A cool few little Easter eggs I noticed were: a torn picture of Duchess Satine, Obi-Wan’s former love interest who Maul killed. Also written on the wall in an ancient tongue, is Kenobi. You also see that Maul still has ownership of the Darksaber, which he acquired when he defeated Mandalorian Pre Vizsla. Talk about some creeper serial killer-like vibe going on here. That set up shows just how dark, twisted, and lost Maul truly has become. All he can think about is revenge against Kenobi.
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20. Lando beats Zeb in a game of Sabacc
Episode: Season 1 Episode 11: Idiot’s Array
The Moment: Zeb and Lando Calrissian go head to head in a heated game of Sabacc, a space card game. Being low on cash, Zeb bets Chopper (Hera’s droid) when he receives an almost unbeatable hand that has the same title as the game. Zeb thinks that he is about to collect a huge payday, when Lando throws over what’s called an Idiot’s array, the only hand that can beat his.
Lando takes ownership of Chopper, but works out a deal with the Ghost crew to get Chopper back. The crew and Lando team up on a mission, which ends up being a success in acquiring some much-needed supplies.
Why It’s Memorable: Being an avid card player myself, I thought this moment was pretty awesome. Sabacc is very similar to blackjack in style, also having a lot of ups and downs very similar to Texas Hold’em.
Sabacc was first introduced in The Old Republic legends material, then later on in the Darth Bane novel: Path of Destruction. The rule play of the game is also kept the same as it was in Legends, which was a very cool moment for me.
Once again, the Lucasfilm team is adding bits of legends material here and there, which appeases hard core nerds like myself. People who say that Disney ruined Star Wars needs to actually pay attention and notice what the story group is really doing. Thrawn, Darth Bane, Sabacc, and Malachor are just a handful of examples that the writers of Rebels are hardcore legends fans like many of us.
Maybe Lucasfilm will release an official version of the game sometime soon. Or better yet, maybe one of the many Star Wars themed lands will have a Casino where we can play the game for real. Now that would be a dream come true!
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19. Kanan defeats the Grand Inquisitor
Episode: Season 1 Episode 15: Fire Across the Galaxy
The Moment: After evading capture aboard the Sovereign, the flagship for Grand Moff Tarkin, Kanan( along with Ezra) encounter The Grand Inquisitor. The three begin to duel, when Ezra is knocked off the ledge. Kanan then assumes his young student has perished. For the first time as Ezra’s teacher, Kanan lets go of his attachments and relies truly on the Force. With that as his ally, he is able to disarm the Inquisitor by cutting the double-bladed lightsaber in two.
With an explosion started by the power cell of the destroyed saber, the Grand Inquisitor is hanging on for dear life, with Kanan standing over him with two lightsabers pointed at the defeated foe. Kanan decides not to kill his enemy, but the Inquisitor intentionally falls to his death, admitting that survival will provide a far worse fate than death.
Why It’s Memorable: Kanan takes his game to the next level in this moment. With a handful of duels against the Grand Inquisitor before, Kanan had been over-matched each time, barely escaping. Yoda once said that the Force is a powerful ally and Kanan has an “ah-ha” moment in that lesson. When he believes Ezra to be dead, he lets go of his fears and decides to embrace the role of a true Jedi.
The Inquisitor had been Kanan’s master, so to speak, with no Jedi around to instruct the free-spirited former Padawan. At this point, Kanan had become the better of the two, which is a huge step for what comes next for Kanan in his duel with Maul.
When the Inquisitor mentions a fate far worse than death, he means severe punishment from his master Darth Vader. That’s enough to give me nightmares for weeks. Especially knowing that Vader often resides on the volcanic planet of Mustafar. I may have fallen to my death if the same fate befell me!
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18. Sabine acquires the Darksaber
Episode: Season 3 Episode 11: Visions and Voices
The Moment: In an attempt to save Ezra from Maul, Sabine travels with Kanan to the witch world of Dathomir. Maul flees, leaving behind a weapon of some interest to Sabine. She finds the darksaber, which is a weapon that runs deep into her family past, that Maul neglects to take with him.
Why It’s Memorable: For Mandalore! The darksaber has a rich and deep history, all the way back about 1,000 years. The Jedi and Mandalorians have a heated rivalry in their past, to say the least. The darksaber, forged by Tarre Visla, has been a weapon that the Jedi and Mandalorians have fought over for years and years. If anyone in the bloodline of Clan Vizla takes up the saber, which Sabine meets the requirement of, the other Mandalorians will follow that person as their leader.
For Sabine to deal with her past and given the opportunity to make things right, which we will find out later why is such a rich moment. She knows her path, but she doesn’t want the burden of leading her people. She feels like its task of someone else. She is later taught by Kanan, which we will see later on, in the arts of Jedi combat and patience, helping her embrace that destiny.
We are first, subtly, introduced to Mandalorian culture by Boba Fett, who wears the ancient armor, but is not Mandalorian himself. His father also donned similar armor, but it’s unknown whether he was a true Mandalorian warrior or not.
17. Obi Wan’s warning revealed
Episode: Season 1 Pilot: Spark of the Rebellion
The Moment: After rescuing the Wookiees from the Empire on Kessel, the Ghost crew returns to their ship. Kanan retreats to his quarters and meditates using his Jedi Holocron. Obi-Wan Kenobi appears via hologram in a pre-recorded message that was the original warning to the Jedi during Order 66. The transmission ends with Kenobi saying for any surviving Jedi to trust in the Force.
Why It’s Memorable: Obi-Wan! The high ground Jedi master in full-effect. They even got the voice actor, John Arnold Taylor from the Clone Wars animated series, to voice Kenobi for this moment. For the first time, we see the coded retreat message that is alluded to in Revenge of the Sith.
Listening to Kenobi’s message gave me major feels. In the message, he states that faith and friendships will be tested. Keep in mind that Kenobi recorded this right before he confronted Anakin aka the newly appointed Darth Vader on Mustafar. The message then ends with Kenobi saying the iconic “The Force will be with you. Always.” Those happen to be the last lines he speaks to Luke in A New Hope before he dies at the hands of Vader.
It was also the first time a Holocron of any kind was seen in the new canon. This is the very Holocron that Kanan’s deceased Master Depa Bilaba gave him before she was killed during Order 66. We know that Holocrons contain a wealth of knowledge, training, recordings, and apparently, the coolest Jedi Master to ever walk the Galaxy.
16. Emperor Palpatine’s cameo
Episode: Season 2 Episode 2: The Siege of Lothal
The Moment: After effectively dealing with and defeating the rebels on Lothal, Darth Vader contacts his Master Darth Sidious. He updates him on the victory over Lothal and informs his Master that the rebels are broken. The Emperor then senses that Vader has more to tell, so the Sith Lord confesses that the apprentice of Anakin Skywalker, Ahsoka Tano, is alive and indeed a rebel herself.
The Emperor then states that this is an opportunity to hunt down and draw out any remaining Jedi. Vader mentions that Kenobi may still be alive, but his Master instructs him to be patient.
Why It’s Memorable: This scene left me with nerd chills to the max. This is the only appearance of the Emperor so far in the three seasons of Rebels. The fact that he appears here, means they could be planning something big for the final season. It was also rumored that Ian McDiarmid had been recording something at the Lucasfilm studios. Could he be making an appearance in Rebels? If I was a betting man, I would put my money on him returning.
You might be asking, didn’t McDiarmid voice the Emperor in this scene? Even though it sounds just like him, it is none other than Star Wars voice actor Sam Witwer. You might know Sam as Maul and The Son in the animated series of Star Wars, and as Starkiller’s voice in the Legends video game The Force Unleashed. Also, this scene was a throwback to The Empire Strikes Back when Vader contacts the Emperor and they discuss the identity of Luke Skywalker. So yeah, this moment rocks!
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15. Leia’s mercy mission on Lothal
Episode: Season 2 Episode 12: A Princess on Lothal
The Moment: Princess Leia Organa goes undercover on the planet of Lothal, to help the Phoenix squadron acquire three much-needed ships for their fleet.
After recently learning the news of his parent’s death, Ezra is in a state of sorrow. Comforted by Leia, Ezra reveals to her that he’s shocked at why she risks so much to help those in need. She reminds Ezra that those with much need to help those who have little.
Why It’s Memorable: Just hearing the name Leia makes my heart full of grief. RIP Carrie Fisher. We miss you already.
When Leia and Ezra converse, that is a very special moment. Having two Force-sensitive teenagers together is always cool, plus seeing Leia give Ezra much needed support really hits home.
Like her adopted father, Leia is also an Imperial Senator. She is risking much by helping the Rebels but does it anyway.
It’s cool to see onscreen the mercy missions that Vader mentions in A New Hope. It shows that Vader had been suspicious of the young Senator for quite some time and this episode reveals why that would be. Anytime Leia is around an Imperial escort they seem to be on the losing side. It makes sense that Vader would triumph in being able to finally prove that Leia indeed is a traitor.
One question I’ve always had that has still not been answered. Why can’t Jedi or Sith sense that Leia is strong in the Force? When Vader interrogates her, he doesn’t mention it. Kanan and Ezra don’t seem to pick up on it either. Maybe we will get that information in a novel or comic in the near future. I’ve got to know!
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14. The Grand Inquisitor was once a Jedi Temple guard
Season 2 Episode 18: Shroud of Darkness
The Moment: Kanan, Ezra, and Ahsoka journey to the Jedi temple on Lothal, seeking answers on how to deal with the threat of the Sith. The three go on their own journey within the temple, with Ahsoka seeing a vision of her former Master Anakin, Ezra seeing and communicating with Yoda, and Kanan having a vision of three Jedi temple guards.
Kanan duels the three guards after they state that they are going to kill Ezra due to his pull to the darkness. After Kanan concedes that fighting is not the answer to this dilemma, through this vision, which is brought on by Master Yoda come to find out, is officially knighted as full-fledged Jedi. In the vision, the temple guard reveals himself to be the Grand Inquisitor, who reveals to Kanan that he was once a Jedi Knight himself.
Why It’s Memorable: The fact that Kanan was promoted to Jedi Knight was not lost on me. Kanan was still technically a Padawan or a failed Jedi student and even viewed himself that way. The fact that Master Yoda gives him the title of an actual Jedi speaks volumes. It shows that Kanan has succeeded as an instructor to Ezra and it also gives him the confidence moving forward to press on as both a teacher and to face the coming struggle that is ahead.
Kanan being knighted is also a nod to the 2003 Clone Wars micro-series when Anakin Skywalker was promoted to Knighthood. The Grand Inquisitor was a Jedi? And not just any Jedi, but an elite temple guard. WOAH! This was a shocking moment and explains why he knew so much about the Jedi arts, especially lightsaber forms. The origins of his fall to the Dark Side are soon going to be released in the Darth Vader comic series and I am totally stoked.
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13. Vader crushes the Rebels on Lothal
Episode: Season 2 Episodes 1-2: The Siege of Lothal
The Moment: After the surprising death of the Grand Inquisitor at the hands of Kanan Jarrus, the Emperor sends his apprentice Darth Vader to deal with the rebels of the Lothal system. Darth Vader uses brutal tactics, even burning down a refugee camp, to draw the Ghost crew out from hiding. In their attempt to escape, Vader duels the over-matched Kanan and Ezra, toying with them and allows them (with the rest of the crew) to escape in order to draw out the entire fleet of Phoenix Squadron.
Vader then displays his extraordinary pilot skills, wrecking several rebel ships in the process. He completes his mission by scattering this rebel cell, then returns back to his Master with the good news.
Why It’s Memorable: A two-part episode featuring Darth Vader? Yes, please! Like with the Clone Wars, Filoni and the writing staff does not overuse Vader. In fact, he only appears a handful of times in Rebels, but it is always when the stakes are at their highest.
Maybe one of the coolest Vader moments ever, and yes I’ve seen Rogue One, is when a blown-up Imperial Walker lands on Vader. From the flames, he effortlessly lifts it up with Force with one hand, while maintaining his grip on his lightsaber with the other. This is the epitome of being a bad ass! The only time onscreen that we get Vader in aerial combat is the final battle of A New Hope. So seeing Vader wipe out an entire fleet of rebels again just filled my heart with pure joy!
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12. Kallus and Zeb stranded on a Geonisian moon
Episode: Season 2 Episode 17: The Honorable Ones
The Moment: Through a series of strange events, the rebel Zeb and the Imperial agent Kallus both crash-land on one of the moons of Geonosis. On this cold and treacherous moon, the two foes must work together in order to survive. The two learn to trust one another and both are rescued by their respective parties. Concluding the episode, Zeb is welcomed back with joy and laughter by his friends, while it’s barely even noticed by the co-workers of Kallus that he was even gone in the first place.
Why It’s Memorable: The moment of Kallus and Zeb being stranded together in an isolated location was a brilliant plot designed by Dave Filoni and his team. You have to understand their history to understand the level and magnitude of this pairing. Agent Kallus was involved in the massacre of Zeb’s people and even killed one of his friends, taking his bo staff. Kallus understands, like Zeb knows from his upbringing, that when a Lasat is defeated in combat, their bo-staff is given, out of respect of being bested, to the better soldier.
In a tear-jerking moment, I’m not afraid to admit that it was me who choked up, Kallus reveals that the friend he killed died with honor. Zeb and Kallus gain a huge amount of respect for one another, maybe even a friendship blossoms at this point. This is definitely the point where the seed is planted in Kallus of defecting from the Empire, which he later ends up doing.
This is one of my favorite episodes of the entire series and I feel it is often overlooked. Rebels once again deliver on character depth and growth, as well as not wasting a single episode. Everything has a purpose and is connected.
Photo property of: Lucasfilm
11. Ezra Constructs his first lightsaber
Episode: Season 1 Episode 10: Path of the Jedi
The Moment: Kanan decides that Ezra is finally ready to be taken to the secret Jedi temple located on Lothal. Once they arrive inside, Ezra must continue alone, and discover by using the Force, why Kanan brought him here. That reason is finding the kyber crystal to power his very first lightsaber.
Ezra goes on a few trials, as well as Kanan while waiting for his Padawan. They both encounter Master Yoda through the Force but do not actually see him physically manifest. He eventually passes the trials needed to acquire his crystal and the journey for constructing his first lightsaber begins.
Why It’s Memorable: Lightsaber mythology. Yes, please! My first encounter with lightsaber lore was found in the legends novel Jedi Quest, where Obi-Wan takes a young Anakin on a Jedi quest to the planet Illum.
Illum was later implemented into the canon via the Clone Wars animated series, where we received a story arc on a group of younglings with their journey for their first lightsaber crystal. With Illum occupied by the Empire at the time of Rebels, Kanan goes to plan B in Lothal.
The connection a Jedi has with its crystal is beyond the functioning of their lightsaber, but a deep bond and living connection they have to it. Their lightsaber is a living entity( I know that sounds odd, but it’s hella cool!)
I can’t wait until we get an official story on Luke’s construction of his green blade and also later on when Kylo Ren constructs his ancient Malachor designed weapon.
10. Maul( formerly Darth) Returns
Episode: Season 2 Episode 20: Twilight of the Apprentice Part 1
The Moment: Kanan, Ahsoka, and Ezra journey to Malachor to seek answers. Upon arrival at the ancient Sith planet, Ezra gets separated from the group. While lost in the underground temple, Ezra encounters an old man who seems to be stranded there. After a long conversation, the old man turns out to be the former Sith Lord Darth Maul. Now just called Maul, he uses Ezra’s goodness( which will end up being the main theme of other episodes) to achieve his own evil agendas.
Ezra attempts to teach Ezra some dark side lessons and even kill using anger when they encounter the Inquisitor the 7th Sister, but Ezra refuses. This meeting is just the first between the young Jedi learner and former Sith, which will continue throughout Rebels.
Why It’s Memorable: Maul is back! This Sith just won’t die. When Ezra finds him, he seems to be old and weak, but come on. Why would we trust Maul? I admit that I did and Filoni used Ezra as the point of view of the viewing audience. Brilliant.
Maul uses a line that is an homage to Yoda in The Empire Strikes Back, “I mean you no harm.” A genius way to make you think that Maul may be a trustworthy person now. But nope. Same old Maul. Well mostly. He now has finally adapted his old Master’s patience and wisdom, evolving into more of a master himself. But as we come to find out, Maul still didn’t learn the lesson of moving on and forgiving his enemy, which ultimately leads to his demise.
Photo property of: Lucasfilm
9. Mustafar is revealed
Episode: Season 1 Episode: 12: Rebel Resolve
The Moment: In a heroic act to save his rebel friends and crew, Kanan is captured by his foe The Grand Inquisitor. He is taken aboard Grand Moff Tarkin’s flagship The Sovereign, where he is interrogated and tortured by both Tarkin and the Grand Inquisitor, in an attempt to gain information, that Kanan reveals that he does not have.
The Inquisitor reveals to him that he is aware of how Kanan’s Master Depa Billaba perished, stating that Kanan was a coward. He then puts doubts in Kanan of his leadership being in question due to his failures in the past. The episode ends with the giant cruiser orbiting over the planet Mustafar, where they plan on taking Kanan.
Why It’s Memorable: Mustafar, where Jedi go to die. A planet with rich Star Wars history. It’s the location of the epic duel between Obi-Wan Kenobi and the newly christened Darth Vader, which ended up leaving Vader in his life support suit. In Rogue One, we learn that it’s the personal retreat and fortress of the Sith Lord Darth Vader.
That bit of information reveals much if you put all the pieces together. It means that Kanan was going there to see Darth Vader. He was going to Mustafar to die a horrible death. I know Kanan is thankful for his friends rescuing him from that terrible fate, that’s for sure!
This also raises a few more questions. Will Ezra and/or Kanan’s fate end on Mustafar, where Jedi go to die? We know that Yoda and Luke are the only two Jedi left during the events of The Empire Strikes Back, so there aren’t too many options for the two Jedi. Another question presented is will Kylo Ren end up here in Episode VIII? I sure hope so!
8. Ezra learns the fate of his parents
Episode: Season 2 Episode 11: Legacy
The Moment: Ezra has a Force vision of his long-lost parents, using it as a guide in order to find them. However; the Imperials track down the rebels and their hidden Phoenix Squadron base, forcing them to flee. Using his vision, Ezra finds former Governor of Lothal, and now an exile, Ryder Azadi.
His parents had originally been taken by the Empire after a series of broadcasts that exposed the Empire for being an oppressive regime. Azadi informs Ezra that his parents had died in an Imperial prison, but before their passing had heard a broadcast of Ezra doing the same thing that got them imprisoned. The episode ends with Kanan encouraging Ezra, telling him that they are one with the Force and live within him.
Why It’s Memorable: This isn’t your grandmother’s kids show, folks. Rebels has been accused of being a kiddy show and shallow by a handful of critics, but this episode proves them wrong once again. Rebels thrive by using this show as a setting to teach tough life lessons. Things aren’t always going to turn out like you expect. It’s about how you respond to loss, which has been a common trend in all Star Wars movies.
Anakin is a lesson on how loss can lead to more pain, if you handle it poorly, while Ezra, to this point, has done the polar opposite. It’s also an important lesson in loss which Luke suffered quite a bit of in the original trilogy, and that lesson continues with Ezra in Rebels. The use of Force visions, like both Anakin and Luke, had as well, shows that you can’t always change the future and that always in motion it is.
7. Kanan is blinded by Maul
Episode: Season 2 Episode 22: Twilight of the Apprentice Part 2
The Moment: During that same trip to Malachor; Kanan, Ahsoka and Maul team up to defeat three Inquisitors, while Ezra pursues the Sith Holocron that many are seeking. Maul then catches Kanan off guard, hitting him in the face with his dual-bladed lightsaber. Kanan is able to absorb the majority of the blow with his lightsaber, but it does enough damage to blind him. Maul then goes in for the kill, but Ahsoka blocks him before he’s able to finish Kanan off.
Kanan then dons an ancient Jedi Temple guard helmet, while Maul and Ahsoka continue their duel. Ahsoka then rushes off to stop Ezra from doing damage with the Sith Holocron he’s acquired. A blind Kanan, using his Jedi training of relying on the Force and not his sight, is able to instinctively block three attempts by Maul, knocking him off the ledge of a high platform. Maul survives, but Kanan prevents any further damage to himself.
Why It’s Memorable: Any time we see a Sith temple explored, that is always a huge bonus. We get that in this moment. The 3 on 3 fight between the Inquisitors vs. two light-siders and a former Sith was so action-packed. That duel displayed just how over-matched the Inquisitors were against the three seasoned vets.
Maul references Ahsoka as Lady Tano, a throwback to their encounter on Mandalore towards the end of the Clone Wars, also referenced in the Ahsoka novel. Knowing that Maul and Ahsoka have history adds more intrigue to two characters who are already very well developed.
Kanan is turning into a Jedi Master. After being Knighted in a vision inside the Jedi temple on Lothal, Kanan gets, even more, street cred when he is able to defeat a highly skilled Maul. The moment Kanan is actually blinded reminded me of an old classic Samurai duel. Nice touch Mr. Filoni!
Once again, the overconfidence of Maul is shown. He apparently hasn’t learned from his haughtiness in his failures against Obi-Wan, then later on when he is also owned by his former Master. Maul’s overconfidence trend continues when he faces an aged Obi-Wan later on.
6. Jedi Master Luminara’s fate is uncovered
Episode: Season 1 Episode: 3: Rise of the Old Masters
The Moment: After failures and his own perceived inadequacies as a teacher, Kanan is ready to give up on instructing Ezra. Not due to the lack of Ezra’s abilities, but Kanan’s lack of it, in his own mind. When Intel arrives to Kanan that Clone Wars hero Jedi Master Luminara Unduli may still be alive, he uses this as an opportunity to seek out a new teacher for Ezra.
Located at a highly secure prison on Stygeon Prime, the Ghost crew led by Kanan and Ezra, seek to rescue the old Jedi master. The two Jedi hopefuls are able to infiltrate the facility and locate the prison cell of Unduli. They learn that her bones remain, which Kanan was able to sense, but that she had died with the Old Republic. The Grand Inquisitor arrives, who is the one that laid the trap for the two Force users. Kanan and Ezra are able to escape but are deeply sorrowed by the knowledge of Unduli’s fate. Kanan admits to Ezra of his fears and agrees to continue the training of the young Force user.
Why It’s Memorable: Clone Wars Easter eggs galore! First off, Stygeon Prime. The Spire, the prison which Unduli is believed to be detained at, is from the Clone Wars Era. The cell once contained Darth Maul himself, when his former master Darth Sidious defeated him and had him imprisoned.
Secondly, the appearance( well kind of) of Master Unduli. Her fate had previously been unknown after Order 66, where she was last seen on Kashyyyk with Master Yoda. Now we know she died after her capture and that the Grand Inquisitor, by the wishes of Darth Vader, used her as a trap to lure in surviving Jedi.
The first full appearance of the Grand Inquisitor. I admit, my first go around with Rebels, I didn’t like the initial idea of these dark side-like bounty hunters. They won me over though, and the Grand Inquisitor became the villain that I hoped for and more. Also, in a weird sense, the Grand Inquisitor became sort of a de facto teacher to Kanan, who would taunt, yet accidentally teach the former Padawan on many occasions.
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5. Kanan teaches Sabine in the Jedi arts
Episode: Season 3 Episode:14: Trials of the darksaber
The Moment: Kanan is given a lesson by Mandalorian exile Gar Saxon on the first ever Mandalorian Jedi, Tarre Vizla. He learns that the origins run back about 1,000 years and that the Jedi and Mandalorians have a heated past. The darksaber, forged by Vizsla, has been a weapon that the Jedi and Mandalorians have fought over for years and years. If anyone in the bloodline of Clan Vizsla takes up the saber, which Sabine meets the requirement of, the other Mandalorians will follow that person no matter what the cost.
On Mandalore, Kanan instructs Sabine in the arts of the Jedi with a lightsaber. Kanan displays his superiority, even though he has lost his sight. Kanan then attempts to teach Sabine a lesson by getting her to admit her motivations. Sabine then gives into her anger and is able to knock the Jedi to the ground. Kanan then encourages Sabine to take up the mantle as the leader of Clan Vizla, which the young Mandalorian is hesitant to do.
Why It’s Memorable: You had me at darksaber. What an amazing weapon and the history dating back to the time of ancient Jedi is so fascinating. The fact that Pre Vizsla, from Clone Wars, once wielded the weapon, then later Maul after he defeated Vizla, digs even deeper into the lore of this one of a kind blade. This also displays the mad skills Kanan has developed since he was blinded by Maul. In fact, some of his postures remind me that of Count Dooku in terms of style of this technique used in teaching Sabine.
The emotional aspect of this moment is not lost on me either. The lack of depth with Sabine that we discussed before is completely thrown out the window after this episode. In fact, Sabine now becomes the most richly developed character on the show.
Photo property of: Lucasfilm
4.Thrawn’s epic return
Episode: Season 3 Episode:1: Steps in Shadow
The Moment: We first encounter Thrawn after Governor Pryce of Lothal requests his assistance dealing with the rebels of Phoenix squadron and the Ghost crew. Thrawn reveals he had just been promoted to Grand Admiral after his valor during the battle of Batton. We then see Thrawn develop a strategy to play the long game, which shocks most of the Imperials but has the approval of Grand Moff Tarkin.
Why It’s Memorable: Along with Darth Revan and Darth Bane, Thrawn is maybe the most popular Star Wars character created in the Expanded Universe. Thrawn first was introduced to us in the Heir to the Empire novel, the first in the Thrawn trilogy, and stole the hearts of( including mine) of many Star Wars fans. The Chiss Admiral was introduced at a time when Star Wars was seemingly done telling stories. So it provided fans with a chance to keep the Star Wars legacy alive.
Once Lucasfilm created a new canon, Thrawn was officially placed, with both Darth Bane and Revan, into the vaults of legends. So when Thrawn was revealed into the new canon, I screamed for joy. Literally. Another treat for fans was when a new canon Thrawn novel was introduced by the creator and original author Timothy Zhan. The novel makes major nods and references to the past, proving what Ahsoka once said about there being a bit of truth in legends! Seeing Thrawn interact with Grand Moff Tarkin was an additional treat, seeing the two brilliant masterminds plot their next war strategy.
Photo property of: Lucasfilm
3. Kanan’s true identity is revealed
Episode: Season 1 Pilot: Spark of the Rebellion
The Moment: The Ghost crew aids in liberating a group of enslaved Wookiees on a rescue mission to the planet Kessel. During a conflict with Imperial forces, the group seems all but defeated, until Kanan takes up his lightsaber for the first time in many moons, enabling the group to escape with the freed Wookiees. After the crew safely escapes with the rescued Wookiees, Kanan decides at that point that he is going to take on the role as master, bringing young Ezra under his wing.
Why It’s Memorable: With the Jedi Knights all but extinct and their fire removed from the galaxy, encountering a Jedi is a rare sight. So when the leader of a rebel cell outs himself as being a surviving Jedi, that’s kind of a big deal. Knowing that a Jedi is a leader of their group installs hope in the rebel crew, giving them the strength to carry on.
It is subtly revealed that Hera knows of Kanan’s background in the prequel novel A New Dawn, but everyone else seems flabbergasted with the news. The reveal also forces Kanan to take the next step on his Jedi path, where he decides to take on the Force-sensitive orphan Ezra Bridger as his Padawan.
We also get a glimpse into the Jedi Holocron that Kanan had once acquired from his former Jedi master. For the first time, we see the coded retreat warning that is alluded to in Episode III: Revenge of the Sith. When the image of Obi-Wan pops up, I nearly freaked out. Okay, maybe I did actually freak out!
2. Maul tracks down Kenobi on Tatooine
Episode: Season 3 Episode 20: Twin Suns
The Moment: Maul journeys to the desert world of Tatooine, in search of his adversary, (former) Jedi Obi-Wan Kenobi. Finding the elusive Kenobi is harder than Maul anticipates, so he uses the goodness of Ezra in order to achieve his goal.
Using the Force, Maul lures Ezra to Tatooine, in order to draw out Kenobi, expecting the old hermit to help Ezra when he’s in need. Maul’s instincts prove to be true and Kenobi comes to the rescue of the young Padawan.
Setting camp up in the desolate desert, Kenobi reveals to Ezra that Maul had used him in order to find him. Maul then arrives, with the intent to kill the old Jedi master. After sending Ezra on his way back to the Ghost crew, a duel between Maul and Kenobi begins.
At first, Kenobi had no intent on fighting the former Sith, but Maul mentions that he knows of Luke, so Kenobi engages him in order to protect Anakin’s son. A brief duel ends in Kenobi killing Maul, where Kenobi finally finishes what he started on Naboo many years before.
Why It’s Memorable: Maul vs Kenobi! Need I say more? Believe it or not, there is much more depth to this moment than just the rematch of two former foes. Let’s start with the (former) Sith Lord. Maul has been set on vengeance with Kenobi for nearly three decades now. He achieved payback during the Clone Wars by massacring many of his Jedi friends (including his former master prior to that).
He also killed Obi-Wan’s love, Dutchess Satine, right in front of him. Maul just can’t seem to let go of his hatred and pain, which shows no growth. Maybe he has achieved power and status, but Maul is emotionally worse off since the last time he and Kenobi met.
The former Jedi, however, has taken a much different path. He had moved on and forgiven Maul. Beyond that, he even felt pity for the one who caused him so much loss. That is evident when Kenobi graciously, and even lovingly, holds Maul in arms after killing him. That’s a nice little homage to when he held his master and former lover, in the same way, showing that Kenobi even showed love for his enemy, an important lesson for us all.
Kenobi, known for having the high-ground, had achieved the spiritual high-ground on Maul. Obi-Wan had transcended into a more powerful state of mind than Maul did. A nice cherry on top of this amazing moment was the episode ending with Kenobi literally watching over Luke. That moment gave me chills and I may have teared up a bit.
1. Ahsoka confronts Darth Vader
Episode: Season 2 Episode 22: Twilight of the Apprentice Part 2
The Moment: After traveling to the Sith world of Malachor with two Jedi, Ahsoka and her company journey into the depths of an ancient temple. After a series of events that leave the group in shambles (Kanan being blinded by Maul and surviving an attack by three Inquisitors), Ezra is alone and confronted by the fearsome Darth Vader. With a death blow about to be delivered to Ezra by the Sith Lord, Ahsoka shows up to save the day.
After an intense dialogue and duel between the two, Ahsoka is separated from Vader after being knocked off the ledge of the Sith temple. Vader turns his sights back to Ezra and attempts to take the Sith Holocron from the aspiring Jedi. Ahsoka then blindsides him and is able to land a blow by her lightsaber to his helmet.
Vader calls out to Ahsoka and it’s officially revealed to her that Vader is really her former Master Anakin Skywalker. After Ahsoka tells Anakin(now Vader) that she will not leave him again, Vader then vows to kill her.
The scene ends with Vader and Ahsoka resuming their duel, with the doors closing, leaving their fates unknown. We see Vader walking away from the Sith temple with his injuries and it appears that Ahsoka is walking into the depths of the Sith temple with her true fate unknown.
Why It’s Memorable: The feels. Major feels. The ultimate duo of Ahoska and Anakin during the Clone Wars could possibly be the best thing about Star Wars. Period. Spending five seasons with this master and apprentice, then Ahsoka leaving the Jedi order, was just a tear-jerker. At that point, we thought that we’d never see our favorite duo together ever again.
Un-aired Clone Wars stories, Rebels, and the Ahoska novel reveal that Ahsoka and Anakin did reunite one last time after all. Right before Obi-Wan and Anakin rushed off to save the Chancellor, the master and apprentice had one last moment. Anakin revealed how proud of her he was. He also gave Ahsoka her green-bladed lightsabers back( though she did not rejoin the order).
So when Ahoska realizes that her former master has become the embodiment of evil, it just hits my heart really hard. The fact that Ahsoka reaches out to the man under the mask and he not only refuses her offer but vows to destroy her, just shows how far gone Anakin really is. Only Luke is able to bring Anakin back.
Next: 50 Most Memorable Moments from Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Where do your favorite moments rank? Let’s discuss in the comments.