The Shocking Truth: Shin Hati, the Perfect Successor to Mara Jade, Unveiled in Ahsoka Theory

This article contains SPOILERS for Ahsoka episode 7.

Summary

Ahsoka unveiled Shin Hati as a fresh addition to the character list, leading to speculation that she could potentially serve as the canonical replacement for Mara Jade in an adaptation of the Thrawn trilogy.

Both Shin and Mara exhibit various parallels, including their status as youthful female Force wielders employed as mercenaries, and their outwardly tough personas coupled with deep compassion.

While Mara's return would be exciting, Shin taking on her role brings elements of Legends back and creates a new character, which ultimately benefits the franchise.

Ahsoka introduced Shin Hati as a new character, but an intriguing Star Wars theory suggests that she may also serve as a canon replacement for Mara Jade. Although there are several differences between the two characters, there are noticeable similarities that hint at Shin fulfilling Mara's role in the upcoming canon adaptation of Timothy Zahn's Thrawn trilogy. This aligns with Ahsoka's approach of incorporating both old and new ideas as Star Wars moves towards its upcoming movie releases. Furthermore, it sparks speculation about how much of Mara's story will be woven into Shin's narrative in Ahsoka and beyond.

Mara made her debut in the 1991 novel, Star Wars: Heir to the Empire, which was the first installment of the Thrawn trilogy featuring Grand Admiral Thrawn. Previously, she had served as the Emperor's Hand and carried out Palpatine's orders faithfully. However, following his demise at the Battle of Endor, Mara went into hiding and took up a life of smuggling. Despite Palpatine's final directive for Mara to assassinate Luke Skywalker, she reluctantly aided him in the confrontation against Thrawn, and eventually, their relationship transformed into love, resulting in their marriage. While Mara's storyline is part of the Legends continuity, there are various possibilities for Shin to take her place in the official canon following Ahsoka.

Shin Hati's Similarities With Mara Jade Explained

Shin and Mara, two young female Force users, are employed as hired guns in the era following the original trilogy. Shin serves as a mercenary, while Mara operates as a smuggler. Despite their independent roles, they both answer to more experienced and powerful masters. Shin accompanies Baylan Skoll on a mission to put an end to the perpetual cycle of warfare engulfing the galaxy. Mara, on the other hand, finds herself aligned with Talon Karde, who has taken control of what remains of Jabba the Hutt's criminal empire.

It's important to note that while Talon Karde may not possess greater literal power than Mara, his influence is significant. Moreover, both Shin and Mara have received training in the dark side of the Force. However, they defy being defined by it and remain flexible in their allegiances. Despite their tough exteriors, both Shin and Mara harbor a deep well of compassion and kindness. Their seemingly hardened personas belie their warm hearts beneath the surface.

Ahsoka's Set-Up Can Make Shin Hati Even More Like Mara Jade

Ahsoka episode 7 "Part Seven: Dreams and Madness" teases that Ahsoka Tano might guide Shin Hati on a path to redemption, akin to Mara in Legends. In the past, Luke successfully reached out to Mara, training her as a Jedi before they wed and had their son, Ben Skywalker. Echoing this dynamic, Shin's conflict with Sabine Wren implies that the Mandalorian could potentially connect with her, just as Luke did with Mara in the Thrawn trilogy. Should Shin embrace the light side, she could join forces with the heroes against Thrawn, perhaps even alongside Luke himself. Ahsoka or Luke could potentially facilitate her Jedi training.

Why Shin Hati Replacing Mara Jade Is Good For Star Wars

While it would be thrilling to see Mara make a comeback in the Star Wars universe, having Shin take her place is ultimately a smarter move for the franchise. Characters like Thrawn could easily be adapted to fit the canon timeline, but the same cannot be said for Mara. Her role as the Emperor's Hand, her connection with Luke, and other pivotal aspects of her story would not align with the current canon. By introducing Shin and incorporating elements from the Legends, the franchise can create a fresh character while staying true to its origins. Ahsoka's Shin Hati has the potential to be a fantastic replacement for Mara Jade in the canon, although it remains to be seen how their narratives will intertwine.

Ahsoka releases new episodes Tuesdays at 6 pm PT / 9 pm ET on Disney+.