The Unbreakable Connection: Discover 8 Startling Parallels between Ahsoka's Jacen Syndulla and Anakin Skywalker

This article contains SPOILERS for Ahsoka episode 5.

Summary

Jacen Syndulla bears striking resemblances to Anakin Skywalker, both in terms of their upbringing and shared experiences. The dreams they both harbored of becoming Jedi exemplify their selflessness and unwavering commitment to safeguarding the well-being of others.

At a young age, Jacen and Anakin displayed remarkable aptitude in harnessing the Force, showcasing their immense potential as Force wielders.

In Ahsoka, Star Wars is beautifully shaping Jacen Syndulla's character, drawing intriguing parallels to a youthful Anakin Skywalker. Inspired by George Lucas's belief that the various generations of Star Wars should harmonize like poetry, similarities were intentionally woven between Anakin and his son, Luke Skywalker. Furthermore, with Ahsoka Tano serving as Anakin's former Padawan and the focus of "Part Five: Shadow Warrior" episode, it is only logical for Jacen to inherit some of the traits from his father's early years.

Jacen finds himself in a similar position as Ahsoka, mirroring Anakin's situation at the start of the Star Wars prequel trilogy. This shared experience highlights their similarities and creates a sense of connection in Jacen's narrative, potentially foreshadowing his future. There are many parallels between Jacen and Anakin, and only time will reveal which aspect of Anakin's legacy Jacen will embody.

8 Jacen & Anakin Were Close To Their Mother (But Never Had A Father)

7 Jacen & Anakin Dreamed Of Becoming Jedi

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Anakin's unconventional birth resulted in his fatherless existence, while Jacen's father passed away prior to his birth. Both individuals were deeply connected to their respective mothers, as Shmi Skywalker desired to rescue Anakin from a life of enslavement, and Hera Syndulla aimed to shield Jacen from the tragic fate shared by his father. It will be intriguing to witness the impact of such upbringing on Jacen, particularly since Anakin's mother encouraged him to pursue the path of a Jedi. Despite Anakin's vulnerability to manipulation by Palpatine due to his longing for a paternal figure, Jacen resembles Luke Skywalker more closely, drawing inspiration from the tales about his father. Consequently, although their beginnings exhibit similarities, these two individuals can embark on contrasting journeys.

Anakin had a dream in which he envisioned himself as a Jedi, liberating his fellow slaves. Similarly, Jacen aspired to follow in the footsteps of Jedi like Sabine Wren, Ahsoka, and his deceased father. This demonstrates their admirable altruism, but neither truly understood the immense sacrifices necessitated by the path of a Jedi. Qui-Gon Jinn cautioned Anakin that even if he succeeded, the life of a Jedi would be arduous, and Anakin's struggles within the order eventually drove him towards the dark side. Consequently, the prospects of Jacen Syndulla's Jedi future remain uncertain, although he is bound to learn this daunting lesson firsthand should he decide to embrace the path of a Jedi.

6 Jacen & Anakin Demonstrated Incredible Force Powers When They Were Just Children

5 Jacen & Anakin Learned From A Non-Traditional Jedi

Anakin's extraordinary affinity to the Force manifested at the tender age of ten, endowing him with lightning-fast reflexes and transforming him into a skilled pilot. Alternatively, at the same young age, Jacen's adeptness in sensing the Force allowed him to perceive the intense lightsaber duel between Ahsoka and Anakin within the ethereal World Between Worlds. These instances exemplify the exceptional Force potential possessed by both Anakin and Jacen during their early years, albeit each of them forging an individual connection to it. Anakin's bond appears to be rooted in the Living Force, enabling him to obtain physical prowess and gain profound insights into the present moment. Conversely, Jacen's talent seems to align more harmoniously with the Cosmic Force, enabling him to attune to events unfolding in alternate realms.

Huyang observed that Ahsoka belonged to a lineage of unconventional Jedi, implying that Jacen could also benefit from training under an unorthodox mentor. Although Anakin initially apprenticed to Obi-Wan Kenobi, his initial teachings were imparted by Qui-Gon Jinn, who prioritized following the will of the Force, even if it meant deviating from the Jedi Code. Similarly, Ahsoka, dissatisfied with the Jedi Order and their customs, decided to train a Padawan who lacked Force sensitivity. While Ahsoka has not taken Jacen as her apprentice, she may have shared some wisdom with him, akin to what Qui-Gon did for Anakin. Should she choose to mentor him, Jacen could embody the potential that Anakin could have realized with a different master.

4 Jacen Shares Anakin's Sense Of Wide-Eyed Enthusiasm

3 Both Jacen & Anakin "Give Without Any Thought Of Reward"

: Both Anakin and Jacen were filled with intense passion and unwavering enthusiasm, completely dedicated to pursuing their aspirations. While Anakin's portrayal in Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace aimed to depict the harsh reality of his life as a slave, Jacen's initial appearance showcased his wide-eyed excitement. Everywhere Jacen went, he brought joy and eagerly embraced any task his mother entrusted to him, indicating a promising future as a compassionate individual. Nevertheless, the blissful innocence of childhood cannot endure indefinitely, and Jacen may encounter challenges that will determine if he will repeat the same mistakes as Anakin.

Anakin and Jacen both possess the quality of altruism. Qui-Gon observed that Anakin "gives without expecting any reward," while Jacen always remained eager to join his mother in daring quests to rescue their comrades. Witnessing the transformation of Anakin, once a selfless child, into a man consumed by selfishness, made his descent to the dark side all the more tragic. In the Star Wars universe, characters are defined by the choices they make, particularly those who harness the power of the Force. Jacen, with his whole life ahead of him, has the opportunity to continue his heroic acts.

2 Jacen & Anakin Were Best Friends With An Astromech Droids

1 Jacen & Anakin Were Both "Born To Fly"

Jacen's mechanical skills may be unclear, but his fondness for droids mirrors that of Anakin. Anakin's deep bond with R2-D2 endured for a decade, and now Jacen has formed a strong partnership with Chopper. Growing up alongside Chopper gives Jacen a unique advantage. It's likely that Hera will entrust Chopper to Jacen once he reaches the appropriate age, relying on the droid to protect her son during their travels through the galaxy. Chopper would be an ideal companion for Jacen, especially if he shares another one of Anakin's remarkable traits.

Anakin, a lifelong pilot, takes after his mother, who is the Rebellion's top pilot, according to Sabine's statement in the Star Wars Rebels epilogue. With the Ghost housing a detachable ship named the Phantom, it wouldn't be surprising if Jacen and Chopper found themselves maneuvering the smaller craft. In a dire situation, Jacen might even step up to pilot the Ghost, finally proving why he was always destined to soar through the skies. Introducing Jacen as a pilot in Ahsoka or any other Star Wars project would create a remarkable parallel, highlighting his striking resemblance to Anakin Skywalker.

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