The Stranger in THE ACOLYTE Could Be the Link Between the Sith and Knights of Ren

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As a long-time Star Wars enthusiast and someone who has followed the saga’s intricate web of characters and stories for decades, I find myself utterly captivated by the latest developments in the Disney+ series “The Acolyte.” The show’s potential connections to the broader Star Wars universe are truly fascinating.

In simpler terms, the last installment of “The Acolyte” hinted at significant elements shaping up in “Star Wars” folklore. The most noteworthy unveiling was the identity of Darth Plagueis, who is strongly suggested to be the Sith mentor of Emperor Palpatine. Another major shift involved Osha (Amandla Stenberg) joining the Stranger (Manny Jacinto), also known as Qimir, as his apprentice. Despite these revelations, numerous queries remain unanswered. For instance, is the Stranger a Sith or one of the Knights of Ren? Could he be the first Knight of Ren? Furthermore, how exactly are the dark-side-wielding Knights of Ren linked to the Sith Order? Possibly, “The Acolyte” finale provided us with an answer.

Darth Plagueis Reveals Himself in The Acolyte

On the enigmatic planet inhabited by the enigmatic Stranger, a shadowy figure with ominous intentions lurks in the background. He quietly observes as the Stranger engages in conversation with Osha, making an attempt to sway her with his malevolent charms. According to non-canonical Legends sources, this could be our initial on-screen portrayal of Darth Plagueis the Wise. His appearance bears a striking resemblance to how he was depicted as a Muun in the novel “Star Wars: Darth Plagueis” by James Luceno. So, why is he present? We have some theories.

As a dedicated gamer immersed in the Star Wars universe, I’ve come across an intriguing theory: I believe he is the genuine Sith master, and this enigmatic figure, referred to as The Stranger, serves as his apprentice. According to the “Rule of Two,” there are only ever two Sith – a Master and an Apprentice. Yet, history shows us that this rule often gets broken.

Was Darth Plagueis the Master of Qimir/The Stranger?

Our feeling is that some time after being the Padawan learner to Master Venestra Rwoh, Qimir (or whatever his true name is) became the apprentice of Darth Plagueis, following the rule of two. But also, at some point, instead of trying to kill his master and replace him, he merely abandoned the Sith creed. He still obviously uses the dark side of the Force, and has his Sith training, but he may no longer consider himself a Sith Lord. That doesn’t mean that Darth Plagueis isn’t keeping tabs on him though. Especially if he knows his former pupil is on to something when it comes to a pair of mysterious children born of the Force on Brendock.

Does the Stranger Connect the Sith and the Knights of Ren?

I’m deeply intrigued by “The Acolyte” and believe it sheds light on more than just the early days of the Sith who will eventually rule the galaxy with the Galactic Empire. It seems to be hinting at the origins of the Knights of Ren as well. The clues are subtly woven into the storyline. For instance, the haunting use of John Williams’ Kylo Ren theme in relation to Manny Jacinto’s character leaves me wondering if there might be a hidden connection. Leslye Headland herself hasn’t ruled out the possibility of a Kyle/Qimir link, which adds even more fuel to this intriguing theory.

If the Stranger is revealed to be a past apprentice of Darth Plagueis in the second season of “The Acolyte,” it’s likely that Plagueis would have sought out a new apprentice at some point. So, we might witness the formation of the Knights of Ren by an older Osha and Qimir, while Plagueis attempts to corrupt a young Palpatine with his dark side powers. This is a long-awaited storyline among “Star Wars” fans that has yet to be explored in canon. And Headland has hinted that she understands how “The Acolyte” ties directly into “The Phantom Menace.”

With a time leap, it’s plausible that the same actors portray Qimir and Osha once more. Qimir dropped a clue about being a Jedi “a long time ago,” implying an advanced age. The Force’s dark side can grant abilities deemed unusual, such as prolonged youth. In “Revenge of the Sith,” Palpatine informed Anakin of this. If there is a second season of “The Acolyte,” it might reveal the connections between Darth Plagueis, the Stranger, Osha, the Knights of Ren, and ultimately, the Emperor himself.

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2024-07-18 16:33