With only three episodes remaining in the first season of The Acolyte, show creator Leslye Headland reveals that she is still incorporating elements of old-school Star Wars mythology from the Expanded Universe, also known as Legends.
Legends refers to Star Wars stories that were written before Disney acquired the franchise and reorganized everything into one cohesive canon. While these stories are no longer considered official, some creators are slowly integrating certain aspects into the current canon. For example, Grand Admiral Thrawn from the novel Heir to the Empire made an appearance on Ahsoka.
In the fifth episode of The Acolyte titled “Night,” a metal called cortosis was introduced. This specialized ore, originating from the 1998 novel I, Jedi by Michael Stackpole, has the unique ability to briefly deflect a lightsaber. It is the material used for the Stranger’s helmet. Headland discussed the decision to canonize cortosis in The Acolyte with Inverse, emphasizing the care taken to ensure it aligns with the existing lore of Star Wars.
The interview with Headland showcases her deep respect for the Star Wars mythology and her thoughtful approach to incorporating new elements. The discussion around cortosis highlights the collaborative effort with Pablo Hidalgo and visual artist Rob Bredow to ensure it fits seamlessly into the story.
Fans can expect more nods to Legends in future episodes of The Acolyte, as hinted by Headland. The series is available for streaming on Disney+, with new episodes releasing every Tuesday at 9 p.m. ET.
As the series continues to explore the vast Star Wars universe, viewers can anticipate additional surprises and connections to the rich history of the franchise. The incorporation of elements from the Expanded Universe adds a layer of depth and nostalgia for longtime fans while introducing newer audiences to the wealth of storytelling possibilities within the Star Wars galaxy.
Stay tuned for more updates and revelations as The Acolyte delves further into the lore of Star Wars and continues to expand upon the beloved mythology that has captivated audiences for generations. Experience the magic of Star Wars in a whole new light with The Acolyte, now available for streaming on Disney+.
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