Dave Filoni’s Mandoverse thrives on nostalgia, and if recent reports about Ahsoka season 2 are accurate, it may be about to showcase its most blatant (and perhaps unnecessary) nod to the past yet.

Do you remember Jar-Jar Binks? What about Darth Maul? Or even The Clone Wars? As someone who adores the vast Star Wars universe, I wholeheartedly acknowledge that the frequent references to the bygone era of Skywalker might be bordering on overwhelming. If the current rumors surrounding Ahsoka season 2 hold any truth, I can’t help but worry that Star Wars may be repeating its past mistakes, rather than evolving.

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Conflicting Reports on Natalie Portman’s Potential Return as Padmé Amidala

Since Rosario Dawson’s Ahsoka wrapped up its inaugural season in October 2023, speculation regarding season 2 has been rampant. One major topic of discussion is the fate of Baylan Skoll, portrayed by the late Ray Stevenson. Following his tragic passing, there was uncertainty surrounding whether his character would be recast; it has now been confirmed that Game of Thrones star Rory McCann will assume the role. Additionally, the involvement of Thrawn (played by Lars Mikkelsen) in the live-action series sets the stage for Filoni’s anticipated Mandoverse crossover film. How Ahsoka connects to this crossover remains uncertain, but there are indications that it may tie into … the prequels?

Hollywood insider Kristian Harloff shares insights suggesting that Natalie Portman is “close” to finalizing a deal with Lucasfilm to reprise her role as Padmé Amidala, presumably for a cameo in Ahsoka season 2. While her potential return, two decades after the release of Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith, might be surprising for many fans, it’s worth noting that Ahsoka has already utilized nostalgia-driven appearances; Hayden Christensen reprised his role as Anakin Skywalker in a season 1 episode titled “Shadow Warrior,” as well as appearing as a Force ghost in the series finale.

I refer to the situation as “conflicting” because Star Wars insider Star Wars News Net has presented a counterpoint, stating that Portman is not currently engaged in negotiations to come back for Ahsoka season 2. “We don’t have any additional information to provide, but as of now, Natalie Portman is not in talks regarding her return to Ahsoka season 2,” the outlet reported.

Just Because Padmé Could Be Involved in Ahsoka, Doesn’t Mean She Should

“The World Between Worlds,” a mysterious realm first explored in Star Wars Rebels, opens the door for virtually any character to make a return. Ahsoka has previously encountered someone from her history within this enigmatic space, and it could set the stage for a reunion with Padmé, especially considering that Ewan McGregor appears ready to revisit his role as Obi-Wan Kenobi in Ahsoka season 2. So why not gather the trio from the prequels?

Nevertheless, I find myself questioning whether resurrecting characters like Padmé truly benefits the Star Wars narrative. Can’t we let her rest in peace? There’s no need for incessant explanations. Any devoted Star Wars enthusiast with a well-curated collection of Funko Pops can extrapolate what became of Padmé’s essence after her demise in Revenge of the Sith, whether through comics, novels, or simply by using their imagination. I have no interest in witnessing Anakin and Padmé reconcile in the afterlife; my focus is on seeing Ahsoka, Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal), Boba Fett (Temuera Morrison), and other beloved characters from Rebels oppose Thrawn, for heaven’s sake.

That said, I’m unabashedly a fan of the Clone Wars. Ahsoka and Padmé cultivated a close friendship throughout the war, with Ahsoka even attending Padmé’s funeral on Naboo after Order 66, as highlighted in Star Wars: Tales of the Jedi. Because of this bond, I believe Ahsoka should at the very least acknowledge Padmé; she is a remarkable character who deserved a more gratifying conclusion. However, if Padmé is to return, it must be meaningful. Given that she wasn’t a Jedi, does that exclude the possibility of a reunion in the World Between Worlds? Or, if we opt for another Clone Wars flashback, what role will Padmé serve in advancing Ahsoka’s storyline?

Ultimately, I am genuinely intrigued by which familiar faces will appear when Ahsoka season 2 debuts on Disney+—presumably in 2026.


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