The Fascinating Connection Between Grand Admiral Thrawn and Anakin Skywalker: Unraveling Their Epic Star Wars Saga

Warning! This article contains spoilers for Ahsoka episode 7

Summary

During the Clone Wars on the planet Batuu, Thrawn and Anakin Skywalker crossed paths, with Thrawn aiding Anakin in exchange for intelligence concerning the ongoing conflict.

Thrawn, having served in the Imperial Navy, possessed the rare understanding that Anakin Skywalker and Darth Vader were one and the same.

Thrawn's understanding of Anakin's background allows him to anticipate Ahsoka Tano's actions, as both Anakin and Thrawn were known for their unconventional strategies as military leaders. In episode 7 of Ahsoka, there is a mention of the special connection between Grand Admiral Thrawn (played by Lars Mikkelsen) and Anakin Skywalker (played by Hayden Christensen). Thrawn, who has been in exile in a different galaxy, is nearing the end of his isolation and is preparing to return to the Star Wars galaxy to take charge of the Imperial Remnant as "Heir to the Empire". However, Ahsoka Tano (played by Rosario Dawson) and her allies pose a threat to his plans, which is why he is determined to acquire as much information as possible about his new adversary.

In episode 7 of Ahsoka, Thrawn's Nightsister agent, Morgan Elsbeth, provides him with extensive information about Ahsoka Tano. In the previous episode, Thrawn had specifically requested all available data on the Jedi, including her background, history, and her master's identity. However, Thrawn was taken by surprise when he discovered that Tano's master was none other than Anakin Skywalker, someone he had a personal history with. To understand their past relationship, let's delve into Grand Admiral Thrawn's history with Anakin.

Thrawn Met Anakin Skywalker During The Clone Wars

Near the end of the Clone Wars and after Ahsoka Tano's departure from the Jedi Order, Anakin and Thrawn fortuitously cross paths on the planet Batuu. Due to his unconventional approach to leadership, Thrawn had been banished from his own Chiss society and was dispatched from the Unkown Regions to more familiar territories of the galaxy. His intention was to secure potential allies for his people's struggle against the Grysk Hegemony. In an agreement to aid Anakin in rescuing his wife, Skywalker pledged to provide Thrawn with valuable insight into the Clone Wars and the intricate web of galactic politics that prevailed during that time.

Thrawn Was One Of The Few To Know Anakin Was Darth Vader

After several years, Thrawn made his way back to the known galaxy, ultimately ending up in Imperial custody and receiving an audience with none other than Emperor Palpatine himself. With his exceptional skills and gaining the trust of Palpatine, Thrawn was enlisted into the Imperial Navy and swiftly ascended the ranks, eventually becoming Grand Admiral of the Seventh Fleet. Later, he embarked on a mission alongside Darth Vader under the direct orders of the Emperor. Utilizing his remarkable intellect, Thrawn astutely concluded that Anakin Skywalker and Darth Vader were indeed the same person.

Thrawn's Knowledge Of Anakin Explains His Reaction To Ahsoka

Thrawn's connection to Anakin Skywalker (and Darth Vader) explains his surprise upon hearing his name mentioned in Ahsoka episode 7. This revelation also provides Thrawn with valuable insight into Tano's abilities, as both Skywalker and Tano were known for their unconventional military strategies. Throughout their time together during the Clone Wars and the Empire's rule, Thrawn held great admiration for Anakin Skywalker. Catch new episodes of Ahsoka on Disney+ every Tuesday at 6 pm PT / 9 pm ET.