Ranked from worst to best, here is a list of all the live-action Star Wars episodes, including some of the most memorable moments in the franchise. While Star Wars has always had a strong presence on television, it wasn't until 2019 that the saga received its first live-action TV show, The Mandalorian. This groundbreaking series paved the way for other exciting projects such as The Book of Boba Fett, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and Andor. Currently, both The Book of Boba Fett and Obi-Wan Kenobi are being treated as limited series, while The Mandalorian season 4 is in development and Andor season 2 will conclude the show.
49 The Mandalorian Season 3, Episode 6, “Guns for Hire”
48 The Book of Boba Fett Season 1, Episode 1, “Stranger in a Strange Land”
: A Content Analysis of "Guns for Hire"Widely regarded as one of the weakest episodes in The Mandalorian series, "Guns for Hire" from season 3 has left fans disappointed. Its placement, specifically in episode 6, is argued to be one of the poorest choices for this live-action Star Wars TV show. Considering the potential for captivating storylines, the decision to feature a mere filler adventure on a distant planet is deemed unnecessary and ill-suited for the narrative needs of The Mandalorian series in its third season.
The viewers had high expectations for The Book of Boba Fett, but the initial episode of the show turned out to be quite disappointing. Fans were eagerly anticipating the first season, episode 1 of The Book of Boba Fett to provide some answers or at least lay the foundation for the long-awaited Boba Fett storyline from The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi. However, the excessive use of flashbacks and the absence of a clear story setup made "Stranger in a Strange Land" an episode that easily slipped from memory.
47 The Book of Boba Fett Season 1, Episode 3, “The Streets of Mos Espa”
46 Obi-Wan Kenobi Part IV
"The Streets of Mos Espa" is considered one of the worst live-action Star Wars episodes because, although it advanced the plot of The Book of Boba Fett season 1, episode 3, the episode's tone and introduction of new characters were not quite successful. Despite its attempt to find its tone, the show still struggled to deliver a satisfying viewing experience after three episodes.
Obi-Wan Kenobi Part IV had the potential to be an exciting Star Wars adventure, focusing on Obi-Wan's daring infiltration of the Inquisitors' base in order to rescue Princess Leia. However, the episode fell short, leaving the audience confused and unsatisfied. The resolution to the conflict was particularly disappointing, as Obi-Wan simply walked away from the Imperial base, leaving us wanting more.
45 The Book of Boba Fett Season 1, Episode 4, “The Gathering Storm”
44 The Mandalorian Season 2, Episode 2, " The Passenger"
: The latest installment of The Book of Boba Fett, season 1, episode 4, delves deeper into the dynamic between Boba Fett and Fennec Shand, shedding light on their shared past and the formation of their partnership. Although this episode heavily relies on flashbacks once again, "The Gathering Storm" surprisingly surpasses its predecessors in terms of storytelling and execution.
The second episode of The Mandalorian season 2 left fans disappointed as it deviated from the main storyline and presented a side quest. Instead of progressing towards his goal of finding another Mandalorian, Mando was tasked with aiding the "frog Lady" in her journey back home.
43 The Mandalorian Season 3, Episode 3, “The Convert"
42 The Mandalorian Season 3, Episode 1, “The Apostate"
After two compelling episodes, season 3 of The Mandalorian took an unexpected and possibly underwhelming turn with the episode titled "The Convert." Although not a subpar episode, it shed light on the peculiar pacing that The Mandalorian had adopted. Rather than focusing on the main characters, Din Djarin and Bo-Katan, viewers were now engrossed in a secondary storyline that was only resolved towards the end of the season.
The debut episode of the third season of The Mandalorian faced the challenging task of continuing the story of Mando and Grogu after the finale of The Book of Boba Fett. Viewers who had not watched The Book of Boba Fett were unaware of Mando and Grogu's reunion. Nevertheless, "The Apostate" successfully accomplished its objective and provided a strong beginning to the season.
41 The Mandalorian Season 1, Episode 4, “Sanctuary”
The Mandalorian season 1, episode 4 took significant inspiration from the iconic film Seven Samurai by Akira Kurosawa, a major influence on George Lucas and his creation of Star Wars. Interestingly, Dave Filoni had previously crafted a story in the same style as Seven Samurai in Clone Wars. Although "Sanctuary" was a commendable episode, it did not significantly contribute to the overarching storyline of season 1.
40 The Book of Boba Fett Season 1, Episode 2, “The Tribes of Tatooine”
Following a lackluster premiere, it was the episode titled "The Tribes of Tatooine" that truly marked the start of The Book of Boba Fett. In this second installment of the debut season, crucial components were introduced, which would play a significant role in subsequent episodes. Notably, the Twins Huts and Krrsantan were among these pivotal elements.
39 Obi-Wan Kenobi Part II
Whereas the first part of Obi-Wan Kenobi focused on his life on Tatooine, the second part of the story advanced the plot and introduced Darth Vader. The chilling moment when Obi-Wan discovered that Anakin Skywalker was still alive left a lasting impact. Additionally, the thrilling sight of live-action Inquisitors actively hunting Obi-Wan, despite the absence of an actual fight scene, was truly exhilarating.
38 The Book of Boba Fett Season 1, Episode 7, “In The Name Of Honor”
"After two episodes exploring the Mandalorian storyline, The Book of Boba Fett season 1, episode 7 shines the spotlight back on Boba Fett himself. Titled "In the Name of Honor," this finale brings a satisfying conclusion to a season that faced numerous challenges. Additionally, it presents a heartwarming reunion between Mando and Grogu, setting the stage for future developments in The Mandalorian season 3."
37 The Mandalorian Season 3, Episode 5, “The Pirate"
36 The Mandalorian Season 1, Episode 5, “The Gunslinger”
"The Pirate" proved to be an exhilarating and action-packed installment of The Mandalorian season 3, episode 5. This gripping episode skillfully weaved together various storylines, confirming the suspicions of a greater conspiracy involving Nevarro. Moreover, the pirates, who made their debut in the first episode, played a substantially more significant role this time around. Observing the Mandalorians lend a helping hand to Nevarro allowed their narratives to come full circle, harkening back to the events of season 1.
One of the numerous sidequests in The Mandalorian, "The Gunslinger" stood out as a captivating and well-executed adventure in the first season. This episode not only introduced the intriguing character of Fennec Shand but solidified the significance of Grogu in Din Djarin's life.
35 The Mandalorian Season 3, Episode 4, “The Foundling"
34 The Mandalorian Season 3, Episode 2, “The Mines of Mandalore”
: The Mandalorian season 3, episode 4 continued the show's approach of unveiling Grogu's backstory through flashbacks. "The Foundling" finally provided an exhilarating revelation about who rescued Grogu from Order 66. Ahmed Best impressed in his "scripted canon" debut as Kerellan Beq, the Jedi Master who saved Grogu."The Mines of Mandalore" showcased various notable aspects as an episode, particularly its visually stunning scenes and well-maintained pacing. Nonetheless, the swift and effortlessly concluded redemption mission of Din Djarin in The Mandalorian season 3, episode 2 ultimately left a sense of disappointment. Nevertheless, this installment effectively displayed that Mando's journey would veer away from the anticipated expectations for season 3.
33 The Mandalorian Season 1, Episode 2, “The Child”
32 The Mandalorian Season 1, Episode 6, “The Prisoner”
The Mandalorian debuted with an exceptionally strong opening episode, setting a high standard for the second installment. Episode 2, titled "The Child," marks the true beginning of Din Djarin and Grogu's journey, establishing the dynamic that would define the entire series. This chapter takes us to Tatooine, where Mando encounters new challenges and introduces us to the beloved character, Kuiil.In a thrilling episode of The Mandalorian, a daring heist unfolded, introducing a captivating group of new characters. Among them were several cherished species from the Star Wars universe, all under the leadership of the iconic Din Djarin. Titled "The Prisoner," this episode proved to be a phenomenal addition to The Mandalorian series, delivering on every front. The unexpected betrayal, followed by Mando's relentless pursuit of his former allies, became one of the standout moments of the entire season.
31 Obi-Wan Kenobi Part V
30 The Mandalorian Season 2, Episode 3, “The Heiress"
: The fifth installment of Obi-Wan Kenobi marked a significant moment as it served as the initial section of the series finale. All the plotlines effectively intertwined, and the truth regarding the past of the Third Sister was at long last validated. Through the Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi flashbacks, audiences were granted the reunion they eagerly anticipated since the release of Star Wars: Episode III – The Empire Strikes Back.Episode 3 of The Mandalorian season 2 showcased the significant influence of Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels on the series. "The Heiress" featured Bo-Katan in live-action, played by Katee Sackhoff who reprised her role from Clone Wars and Rebels. This episode also hinted at the appearance of Ahsoka Tano in live-action, making it one of the most memorable moments in the series.