With the release of “Obi-Wan Kenobi” on the horizon, “Star Wars” fans have a lot to look forward to. But if you found yourself questioning some of the trailers, it might be because you need to brush up on your “Star Wars” lore with some critical “Rebels” episodes.
“Star Wars: Rebels” was released in 2014 as a 10-episode animated series exclusive to Disney XD. The show would go on to have four successful seasons covering the period between “Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith” (2005) and “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” (2016). The series, which follows a ragtag group of rebels that fight against the Empire, eventually introduced some significant characters, places and concepts in the “Star Wars” franchise.
Fans quickly learned to love Jedi-in-hiding Kanan Jarrus and his newfound apprentice, Ezra Bridger, as they fought to stay alive and hidden after the activation of Order 66 and survive under the grueling weight of the Empire’s control. While watching the entire series is best, some fans don’t have the time to fit “Rebels” into their schedule. Here are 10 episodes to watch before “Kenobi” premieres so you’re all caught up on what’s going on:
*Some spoilers ahead*
1. Spark of Rebellion (Season 1, Episode 1)
The pilot episode of the series is worth watching. It introduces fans to all the characters within the Rebels group and helps viewers see the state of the universe after the rise of the Empire. Near the end of the episode, viewers are shown a holographic projection of a familiar character, Darth Vader. The Grand Inquisitor is seen kneeling before him, receiving instructions to end all Jedi.
2. Rise of the Old Masters (Season 1, Episode 4)
The fourth episode of the series showcases precisely what kind of enemy and challenge the Grand Inquisitor is to Kanan, Ezra, and the Ghost crew. Additionally, the episode focuses on the rescue of Luminara Unduli, who Kanan and Ezra believe to be a captured Jedi in need of rescue.
3. Gathering Forces (Season 1, Episode 8)
As The Grand Inquisitor continues to be a menace to the series’s heroes, Ezra must fight multiple battles at once as he struggles to connect with The Force. In this episode, after a grueling battle between The Grand Inquisitor, Kanan and Ezra, Ezra finally makes a powerful connection with The Force that saves him and Kanan from disaster.
4. Call to Action (Season 1, Episode 12)
This episode reveals another enemy, Grand Moff Tarkin, who takes his place alongside The Grand Inquisitor. In this episode, we learn what Tarkin has done since the rise of the Empire. The two men attempt to squash the Rebels that have been actively succeeding under their noses.
5. Fire Across the Galaxy (Season 1, Episode 14)
In the Season 1 finale, everyone comes together to make a desperate attempt to save Kanan from The Grand Inquisitor after he was captured in the previous episode. As Ezra, Hera, Zeb and Chopper follow a dangerous plan to save their friend, Ezra and Kanan eventually find themselves face-to-face with The Grand Inquisitor for the final time.
6. The Siege of Lothal: Part 1 & 2 (Season 2, Episode 1 & 2)
The opening two episodes of Season 2 bring more fan favorites into the series. Former Jedi Ahsoka Tano shows up to save the day after the Ghost crew finds themselves in some sticky situations. The crew and Ahsoka come up against a powerful and mysterious foe, Darth Vader, for the first time.
7. Always Two There Are (Season 2, Episode 5)
After the defeat of The Grand Inquisitor in the Season 1 finale, no one expected to see more Inquisitors pose a problem for the ragtag Rebels. This episode introduces two new inquisitors, the Seventh Sister and the Fifth Brother, two resentful allies who work to take down some of the Ghost squad at an abandoned medical station.
8. The Future of the Force (Season 2, Episode 10)
Ezra and Kanan attempt to save force-sensitive children from the Inquisitors sent to retrieve them. As Kanan, Ezra and Zeb fight against the two the best they can, only one person can save them. Ahsoka comes face-to-face with the Inquisitors for the first time, revealing that she is alive and well, something the Empire desperately wanted to know.
9. Twilight of the Apprentice: Part 1 & 2 (Season 2, Episode 21 & 22)
In the final two episodes of the second season, Kanan, Ezra and Ahsoka team up to battle the Inquisitors in a ruthless fight. While all seems to be going well, the Inquisitors receive the help of Darth Vader, who easily overpowers the three young Jedi.
10. Twin Suns (Season 3, Episode 20)
As far as Obi-Wan Kenobi goes, this is the only “Rebels” episode where he appears in person. The episode follows Obi-Wan as he battles Darth Maul, all a part of the Jedi’s mission to keep young Luke Skywalker safe from harm. This Obi-Wan is the most fans will see before “Obi-Wan Kenobi’,” revealing more about his life after Order 66.
While there may not be any crucial Season 4 episodes to prepare you for the release of “Obi-Wan Kenobi’,” the final season still has many significant events that help clue fans in on what is going on in the universe. Again, the entire series is worth watching, and if you find the time to watch the 20-minute episodes, you will enjoy it!
“Star Wars” has become one of the most elaborate, extensive and multi-faceted entertainment franchises. The franchise ties together films, television shows, books, video games and more to complete one comprehensive story. There is something for everyone, and individuals will undoubtedly find themselves more interested in some things over others.
While dedicated fans may find themselves capable of consuming every piece of “Star Wars” media available, the more casual fan might feel overwhelmed by the sheer expansiveness of the franchise. However, watching a handful of “Clone Wars” and “Rebels” episodes can help fans feel more prepared for upcoming releases.
