Star Wars Expanded Universe characters represent decades of rich storytelling that captivated fans long before Disney’s acquisition. The EU, now branded as “Legends,” introduced countless memorable heroes, villains, and complex figures who deserve live-action treatment. While Disney has selectively incorporated some EU elements into canon, many beloved characters remain unexplored in film and television.
The potential for bringing these characters to life has never been greater. Disney’s expanding Star Wars universe across multiple timelines offers perfect opportunities for EU integration. Additionally, fan demand for these characters continues growing through social media campaigns and convention discussions. Therefore, these six characters represent the most compelling candidates for live-action adaptation.
Mara Jade: The Emperor’s Hand Turned Jedi
Mara Jade stands among the most beloved Star Wars Expanded Universe characters for compelling reasons. Originally trained as Emperor Palpatine’s secret assassin, she received orders to kill Luke Skywalker after Return of the Jedi. However, her character evolved from antagonist to ally, eventually becoming Luke’s wife and a powerful Jedi Master.
Her complex relationship with Luke provides rich storytelling possibilities that current Star Wars projects desperately need. The enemies-to-lovers arc offers romantic depth rarely explored in the franchise. Furthermore, Mara’s struggle with her dark past and redemption journey resonates with modern audiences seeking nuanced character development.
Her introduction could easily fit into current timeline projects. The Mandalorian era provides perfect context for exploring Luke’s post-Return of the Jedi activities. Additionally, her Force abilities and lightsaber skills would create spectacular action sequences. Moreover, Mara’s intelligence background adds espionage elements that could enhance political storylines.
Casting Mara Jade would require an actress capable of portraying both deadly assassin and compassionate Jedi. Her character demands physical presence for combat scenes and emotional range for dramatic moments. Therefore, her live-action debut could elevate Star Wars storytelling significantly.
Kyle Katarn: The Rebel Jedi Knight
Kyle Katarn emerged as a fan-favorite protagonist through the acclaimed Jedi Knight video game series. His journey from Imperial officer to Rebel agent to Jedi Knight provides multiple entry points for live-action adaptation. Additionally, his practical approach to the Force and unconventional Jedi methods offer fresh perspectives on Force usage.
Katarn’s backstory involves discovering the Empire murdered his father, leading to his defection to the Rebellion. His subsequent adventures included stealing Death Star plans and uncovering various Imperial conspiracies. Furthermore, his eventual Jedi training under Luke Skywalker created mentorship dynamics ripe for exploration.
His character appeals to fans seeking grounded, relatable heroes in the Star Wars universe. Unlike typical Jedi, Katarn maintains connections to his non-Force sensitive past through continued use of blasters and military tactics. Moreover, his humor and pragmatism balance the franchise’s sometimes overly serious tone.
The Star Wars Expanded Universe characters roster includes few figures as versatile as Katarn for live-action adaptation. His military background suits war-focused series like Andor. Additionally, his Jedi development could anchor Force-centric storylines. Therefore, Katarn represents an ideal bridge between different Star Wars storytelling approaches.
Darth Revan: The Fallen Jedi Redeemed
Darth Revan commands legendary status among Star Wars Expanded Universe characters through the Knights of the Old Republic video game. Set thousands of years before the films, Revan’s story explores the ultimate redemption arc from Sith Lord back to Jedi Knight. His unique perspective on both light and dark sides offers philosophical depth rarely achieved in Star Wars media.
Revan’s amnesia-driven character development creates fascinating storytelling opportunities. Players experienced his journey of self-discovery alongside the character, creating emotional investment in his redemption. Furthermore, his romance with Bastila Shan provided compelling relationship dynamics that enhanced the overall narrative.
His distinctive mask and lightsaber designs have become iconic symbols in Star Wars culture. The character’s visual appeal translates perfectly to live-action adaptation requirements. Additionally, his leadership of both Jedi and Sith forces demonstrates tactical brilliance that could enhance strategic storytelling elements.
The Old Republic era offers Disney vast unexplored territory for new Star Wars content. Revan’s story could anchor an entire series exploring ancient Jedi and Sith conflicts. Moreover, his character’s moral complexity appeals to audiences seeking sophisticated storytelling beyond traditional good versus evil narratives.
Prince Xizor: The Crime Lord of Black Sun
Prince Xizor ruled the Black Sun criminal organization during the Empire’s reign, making him a perfect antagonist for current Star Wars projects. His appearance in Shadows of the Empire established him as a calculating villain who challenged both Empire and Rebellion through criminal enterprises. Additionally, his Falleen species’ natural pheromones and reptilian heritage create visually striking characteristics ideal for live-action.
Xizor’s rivalry with Darth Vader stemmed from the Dark Lord’s destruction of his family’s chemical plant. This personal vendetta drove him to manipulate galactic events for revenge while building criminal empire power. Furthermore, his romantic pursuit of Princess Leia added personal stakes to political maneuvering.
His criminal organization provides perfect material for underworld-focused Star Wars content. The success of series like The Mandalorian proves audience appetite for criminal elements in the galaxy. Moreover, Xizor’s sophisticated approach to crime offers contrast to simpler criminal characters like Jabba the Hutt.
Among Star Wars Expanded Universe characters, Xizor represents untapped potential for exploring political corruption and criminal influence. His manipulation of Imperial and Rebel forces could enhance current storylines examining galactic governance. Therefore, his introduction could add layers of complexity to existing conflicts.
HK-47: The Homicidal Protocol Droid
HK-47 brings dark humor and lethal efficiency to Star Wars Expanded Universe characters through his appearances in Knights of the Old Republic games. This assassin droid’s sardonic commentary on organic beings’ weaknesses provides comic relief while maintaining genuine menace. His programming combines tactical brilliance with disturbing enthusiasm for elimination missions.
The droid’s relationship with Revan created memorable master-servant dynamics that evolved into genuine loyalty. HK-47’s devotion to his “master” despite his general disdain for organics added unexpected emotional depth. Furthermore, his observations about galactic politics and warfare offered unique perspective on large-scale conflicts.
His distinctive orange chassis and protocol droid appearance mask deadly capabilities that surprise enemies. The contrast between harmless exterior and lethal interior creates visual storytelling opportunities perfect for live-action adaptation. Additionally, his vocabulary quirks and formal speech patterns provide memorable dialogue possibilities.
Modern Star Wars projects could benefit from HK-47’s presence as comic relief and tactical support. His analytical approach to problems offers solutions that organic characters might miss. Moreover, his dark humor could balance serious storylines without undermining dramatic tension.
Kol Skywalker: Legacy of the Chosen One
Kol Skywalker represents the distant future of the Skywalker bloodline in the Legacy comic series. Set over 130 years after Return of the Jedi, his era explores how the Skywalker legacy continues influencing galactic events. His role as Jedi Master and father to Cade Skywalker provides generational storytelling opportunities that Disney’s sequel trilogy abandoned.
His death at Sith hands traumatized his son Cade, leading to the younger Skywalker’s fall from grace. This tragedy established consequences that drove entire story arcs exploring addiction, redemption, and family legacy. Furthermore, Kol’s Force ghost appearances provided guidance during his son’s darkest moments.
The Legacy era offers Disney opportunities to explore Star Wars’ far future without contradicting current canon. Kol’s time period includes new galactic conflicts, evolved Force philosophies, and technological advancement. Additionally, his family’s continued importance demonstrates the Skywalker name’s enduring significance.
Among Star Wars Expanded Universe characters, Kol represents hope for continuing the Skywalker saga beyond the sequel trilogy’s conclusion. His story could launch entirely new storylines while honoring established legacy themes. Therefore, his adaptation could revitalize fan interest in future-set Star Wars content.
These characters demonstrate the Star Wars Expanded Universe characters potential for enriching Disney’s canon. Each offers unique storytelling opportunities that could enhance current projects while satisfying longtime fans. For those interested in exceptional character development, these figures represent peak EU storytelling. Meanwhile, fans seeking family-friendly content could appreciate characters like Kyle Katarn’s heroic journey. Additionally, those following franchise building strategies can see how EU integration could strengthen Star Wars’ future.
Which EU character would you most want to see in live-action? Let us know in the comments!