Timothy Zahn is clearly excited about Grand Admiral Thrawn’s future in the Star Wars Universe. After the conclusion of Ahsoka Season 1 has stirred significant discussions about the live-action debut of Thrawn, fans have been eager to know how the character’s creator views the Imperial officer’s portrayal in the Star Wars series. Recently, Zahn shared his thoughts on the character’s adaptation and hinted at Thrawn’s return in Ahsoka Season 2.
During the Talking Thrawn panel at Twin Cities Con in Minneapolis, Zahn provided valuable insights into the character’s journey from his original Heir to the Empire novel to his live-action appearance, comparing it to the feeling of “watching your kid get on the bus on the first day of school.” The author praised Dave Filoni’s deep understanding of Thrawn’s character and further elaborated on Thrawn’s motivations, particularly his determination to bring his vision of the Empire back from Peridea to help the Chiss Ascendancy.
Timothy Zahn Explains Thrawn’s Motivations in Ahsoka
Timothy Zahn emphasized that Thrawn’s ambition is rooted in his commitment to the Chiss Ascendancy. He believes that the New Republic lacks the capability to effectively support this goal, making the re-establishment of the Empire his best possible option.
“Everything flows from his motivation to help the Chiss. He believes the New Republic won’t be able to help that goal so bringing the Empire back is the only way,” Zahn said.
Seated for "Talking Thrawn" with Timothy Zahn himself at @TwinCitiesCon! May fool around and do some live-tweeting. May not. #TCC2023 pic.twitter.com/ugQ0gxpE6P
— Nate Manning (@nate_manningham) November 3, 2023
In his 2017 Thrawn novel, Timothy Zahn previously established that Thrawn’s alignment with the Empire was a strategic decision made to protect the interests of the Chiss Ascendancy. Recognizing potential threats in the Unknown Regions, Thrawn saw the Empire’s strength as a means to address these concerns. The core aspect of his character was central to subsequent novels, including Thrawn: Alliances and Thrawn: Treason, often putting Thrawn at odds with the Empire’s leadership, who questioned his loyalty.
The Chiss, a mysterious and secluded species dwelling within the Unknown Regions of the galaxy, are notorious for their enigmatic presence. This region remains nearly impenetrable due to its countless anomalies, and the Chiss Ascendancy’s policies of isolationism have further veiled them in myth and legend, effectively concealing their existence from the wider galactic populace. They hold a self-perceived superiority but strictly adhere to non-interventionist principles, resorting to conflict only when provoked or when concrete evidence of an imminent threat emerges.
Following his liberation from the Emperor’s authority, Thrawn finds himself in a unique position where he can leverage the resources of the Empire to support the Chiss Ascendancy. However, the Ascendancy’s current state remains shrouded in uncertainty. Before Thrawn’s departure, the Chiss government was entangled in internal conflicts and turmoil, leaving their future unclear.
Thrawn’s Grand Plan Could Be Revealed in Ahsoka Season 2
While Ahsoka already showed Thrawn’s somehow desperate attempt to leave Peridea, Timothy Zahn says everything will fall into place in Season 2. “[Thrawn] is going to his stride in the second series of Ahsoka,” he said during the panel. However, Zahn quickly added that “we assume there’s going to be a second series” and pointed out that Lucasfilm hasn’t confirmed the show’s renewal just yet.
Zahn’s insights shed light on Thrawn’s multifaceted character, his motivations, and how his portrayal in Ahsoka remains faithful to his literary origins. As fans eagerly anticipate Ahsoka Season 2, they can look forward to further explorations of Thrawn’s intricate role within the ever-expanding Star Wars universe.
For now, Ahsoka has not yet been officially renewed for a second season. However, it has been confirmed that Season 2 is currently being considered and is expected to be announced before the end of the year.
