Warning! This article contains spoilers for Ahsoka episode 5.
Summary
Temuera Morrison finally brings Captain Rex to life in the highly anticipated Ahsoka episode 5, creating a truly monumental moment for devoted Star Wars enthusiasts. Given Captain Rex's pivotal presence in both The Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels, his inclusion in Ahsoka becomes absolutely indispensable.
Taking into account Rex's age, there is a strong possibility of him making appearances beyond flashbacks in Ahsoka. This is due to his history and close relationship with Ahsoka Tano.
Temuera Morrison, a cherished character in the Star Wars fandom, makes a cameo as Captain Rex in episode 5 of Ahsoka. This marks the highly anticipated debut of the heroic Clone Wars-era character in live-action. Morrison initially entered the Star Wars universe as the bounty hunter Jango Fett in Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones. He also provided the voices for many clone troopers, visually represented through computer-generated imagery or played by Bodie Taylor in non-speaking roles. Morrison's portrayal of Jango Fett, Boba Fett, and various clone troopers in canon and Legends spinoff material has been well-received. With his recent live-action performances in The Mandalorian and The Book of Boba Fett, Morrison's return sets the stage for his portrayal of Captain Rex in Ahsoka.
Captain Rex made his first appearance in the 2008 movie Star Wars: The Clone Wars. He then became a central figure in the TV series of the same name, often taking on leading or supporting roles. The Clone Wars aimed to humanize the clone troopers, and Rex, being the most prominent clone, underwent significant character development throughout the show's seven seasons. Rex's story continued beyond The Clone Wars, as he had a recurring supportive role in season 2 of Star Wars Rebels and now makes frequent guest appearances in Star Wars: The Bad Batch.
Temuera Morrison Returns As Captain Rex In Ahsoka
Morrison, who revived Boba Fett in live-action Star Wars, has expressed interest in featuring Captain Rex in the past. Now, he has finally portrayed the beloved clone in the Ahsoka episode "Part Five: Shadow Warrior." This episode follows Ahsoka as she revisits significant moments from the Clone Wars, including the Battle of Ryloth and the Siege of Mandalore. In a brief appearance, Captain Rex is seen talking with Anakin Skywalker and members of the Twi'lek Resistance before returning to combat. Morrison plays Rex in these scenes, introducing the live-action version of Phase 1 clone trooper armor and Rex's unique armor combination from the end of the Clone Wars. Rex's inclusion not only serves as fan service but is vital due to his importance in The Clone Wars and his connections with Ahsoka and Anakin.
Captain Rex's History With Ahsoka Explained
Captain Rex and Ahsoka Tano, two prominent figures in The Clone Wars, share a significant history together. Their paths first crossed during the Battle of Christophsis, and despite a rough patch, they eventually developed a strong friendship during the battle on Teth. As key leaders of the renowned 501st Legion, alongside Anakin Skywalker, Rex showed unwavering trust in Ahsoka's integrity even when she was wrongly accused of the Jedi Temple bombing.
During the Siege of Mandalore, Rex and Ahsoka fought side by side, although Rex briefly fell under the influence of Order 66 due to his inhibitor chip. Thankfully, Ahsoka managed to remove the chip, restoring Rex's autonomy. Throughout the Imperial era, they remained relatively inconspicuous, but eventually, they reunited and became instrumental in establishing the Rebel Alliance. The presumed demise of Ahsoka on Malachor deeply saddened Rex, and while he continued to fight for the Rebellion in the Galactic Civil War, it is uncertain whether he ever discovered that Tano had survived. Rex's final recorded mission for the rebels took place during the ground battle on Endor.
Due to their accelerated aging process, clone troopers like Rex age twice as fast as regular humans. This means that during the events of Ahsoka, Rex is likely biologically 72 years old. Keeping this in mind, there is a possibility for Rex to make another appearance in a future installment, this time outside of a Clone Wars-era flashback. Morrison's surprise live-action cameo as Captain Rex in Ahsoka was well-received by long-time Star Wars fans. Considering his previous connection and friendship with Ahsoka Tano, as well as the emotional finale of Rebels season 2, there is a chance that Morrison may return once again as the seasoned veteran clone.
New episodes of Ahsoka are released on Disney+ on Tuesdays at 6pm PT / 9pm ET.
