from grogu to bo-katan kryze, these are the 15 greatest star wars characters introduced in tv shows, ranked by impact and fan acclaim.
The Star Wars galaxy has expanded far beyond its original trilogy roots, evolving through prequels, sequels, and most recently, an entire wave of television and streaming shows that have introduced fans to some of the franchise’s most compelling new characters. From masked Sith warriors to heart-melting baby aliens, the small screen has become a launchpad for many unforgettable faces. Here are the 15 best characters introduced in Star Wars shows—ranked for their impact, complexity, and popularity.
15. The Stranger
Introduced in The Acolyte and portrayed by Manny Jacinto, The Stranger made an unforgettable first impression. Dressed in cortosis-plated armor and wielding a red cortosis lightsaber that could short out Jedi weapons, he felt more like a horror villain than a traditional Sith. Though his time was cut short by the show’s cancellation, he offered a chilling, fresh take on the dark side.
14. Fennec Shand
Played by Mulan and Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. star Ming-Na Wen, Fennec first appeared in The Mandalorian before becoming a staple in The Book of Boba Fett and The Bad Batch. Starting off as a merciless assassin, Fennec evolved into Boba Fett’s trusted right hand, blending honor with lethal efficiency.
13. Din Grogu
Hearts melted across the galaxy the moment Grogu—affectionately dubbed “Baby Yoda”—appeared in The Mandalorian. Voiced by David Acord, Grogu’s mysterious past, Force powers, and deeply emotional bond with Din Djarin not only expanded the lore of Yoda’s species but also anchored one of the saga’s most touching father-son dynamics. His journey continues in the upcoming film The Mandalorian & Grogu.
12. Cad Bane
Voiced by Corey Burton and brought to life in live-action by Dorian Kingi, this cowboy-styled bounty hunter became an iconic villain through The Clone Wars, The Bad Batch, and The Book of Boba Fett. Cold-hearted and cunning, Cad Bane commanded every scene he was in—even when facing down Jedi legends.
11. Bo-Katan Kryze
Katee Sackhoff’s Bo-Katan started as a Death Watch extremist in The Clone Wars, yet evolved into the rightful ruler of Mandalore. Sackhoff’s rare crossover from animation to live-action in The Mandalorian showcased Bo-Katan’s long path from violence to redemption and leadership.
10. Hunter
The stoic leader of Clone Force 99, Hunter was introduced in The Clone Wars and fleshed out in The Bad Batch. Played by Dee Bradley Baker, Hunter’s arc from elite soldier to protective father figure of Omega gave him a unique emotional depth.
9. Crosshair
Also voiced by Baker, Crosshair began The Bad Batch as a traitor to his brothers. However, his gradual redemption—fighting off the control of his inhibitor chip and saving Omega—turned him into a tragic, layered figure whose gruff demeanor masked inner conflict.
8. Asajj Ventress
Voiced by Grey Griffin and Nika Futterman across multiple series, Ventress debuted as Count Dooku’s assassin in The Clone Wars but evolved into a rogue mercenary with a surprisingly Jedi-like code. Her story, especially in The Bad Batch, showed that even the darkest hearts can seek redemption.
7. Omega
Michelle Ang voices Omega, a young, unique clone who became the emotional heart of The Bad Batch. Despite the darkness surrounding her, Omega’s unwavering kindness and growth from naive girl to rebel fighter captured fans’ imaginations.
6. Ezra Bridger
Ezra, played by Taylor Gray in Star Wars Rebels and Eman Esfandi in Ahsoka, is a Jedi who balanced light and dark. Like Anakin, he struggled with temptation, but unlike the Chosen One, Ezra found redemption. His wit, loyalty, and journey of self-discovery made him a standout in both series.
5. Din Djarin
Portrayed by Pedro Pascal and body doubles Brendan Wayne and Lateef Crowder, Din Djarin is the heart of The Mandalorian. A lone bounty hunter turned adoptive father, Din ushered in a new Star Wars era by blending classic Western tropes with emotional storytelling.
4. Captain Rex
Clone Captain Rex became a fan favorite through The Clone Wars, Rebels, and The Bad Batch. Voiced by Dee Bradley Baker, Rex offered a unique perspective as a clone with free will, constantly grappling with morality and loyalty during the Republic’s fall and Empire’s rise.
3. Ahsoka Tano
First appearing in The Clone Wars, Ahsoka—voiced by Ashley Eckstein and later portrayed by Rosario Dawson in live-action—went from Anakin’s impulsive padawan to one of the saga’s most revered Force-wielders. Her independence and strength turned her into a modern icon.
2. Hera Syndulla
Debuting in Star Wars Rebels and played by Vanessa Marshall (animated) and Mary Elizabeth Winstead (live-action), Hera is a Rebel leader, pilot, and mother. She’s the glue of the Ghost crew and now a General, embodying hope and resistance.
1. Grand Admiral Thrawn
Though originally introduced in books, Thrawn became canon in Star Wars Rebels and returned in Ahsoka, played by Lars Mikkelsen. The cold, calculating tactician captivated fans with his strategic brilliance and terrifying calm—cementing his place as one of the franchise’s most compelling villains.
