5 Star Wars Villains That Aren’t Canon (But Should Be)

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In the galaxy of Star Wars, it’s the infamous villains like Darth Sidious and Darth Vader who often steal the spotlight, but there are numerous lesser-known characters from non-canon sources that have held fans’ interest for decades. These individuals, spawned from books, comics, and video games, possess deep histories that resonate with fans of the Star Wars Legends or Extended Universe, a continuity encompassing all Star Wars content created before 2014, excluding Star Wars: The Clone Wars and the prequel films. These characters offer captivating narratives that could potentially be integrated into the main Star Wars canon, while also adding new, intense adversaries similar to how Grand Admiral Thrawn has done in the franchise.

These seven characters, although not directly linked to the ongoing storyline, significantly shaped the Star Wars universe over time. Introducing them into the canon could create an exhilarating experience for fans.

5. Mara Jade

Mara Jade’s story unfolds as she was once the Emperor’s confidante, a skilled assassin and a powerful user of the Force under Palpatine’s service. Following the collapse of the Empire, she initially aimed to eliminate Luke Skywalker, whom she held responsible for the Emperor’s demise. What makes Mara Jade distinct is her intricate motivations and her unconventional bond with the Force, distinguishing her from the stereotypical villain with a twisted mustache.

Over the course of events, Mara’s character progressed from being a vengeful assassin to a crucial ally and eventually Luke’s wife. Although she ended up as a hero, her past as a relentless killer could fit perfectly into current canon. While it may not be possible for her to have the exact same backstory in today’s Star Wars universe as in Legends, a captivating narrative could unfold by adjusting her history and portraying her as an adversary during the Imperial era. As she witnesses and reacts to the Rebellion, her transformation and eventual alliance with the heroes could make for an intriguing series.

4. Onimi

As a loyal member of the enigmatic Yuuzhan Vong from the far reaches of wild space, I found myself in a position of great power as the personal “shaper” to Supreme Overlord Shimrra Jamaane. However, beneath

In an extraordinary departure from typical villains, Onimi stands out due to his physical vulnerability. Instead, he relies on clever strategies and psychological manipulation to assert dominance. Taking on the role as the covert leader behind a tyrant offers a fresh perspective on the classic villain character, potentially introducing chilling new horrors to the Star Wars universe that surpass any previously experienced.

3. Ysanne Isard

As a cinephile eager to share my insights, let me delve into the captivating world of “The Last Emperor’s Successor.” Ysanne Isard, portrayed as the director of Imperial Intelligence, undeniably stole the show. Her character exudes an intelligence that’s as chilling as it is riveting. After the emperor’s demise, she rose to power with a ruthless efficiency that left audiences awestruck.

Nicknamed the “Iceheart,” her cold and calculating demeanor was as mesmerizing as it was terrifying. She masterfully manipulated characters, leaving us questioning their true allegiances. Her behind-the-scenes control of the Empire added an extra layer of suspense, making her a constant, menacing presence.

Isard’s portrayal of power and intelligence is a testament to her character’s complexity and the director’s skill in bringing such a formidable figure to life on screen. Her reign served as a stark reminder of the Empire’s inherent danger, making us appreciate even more the rare instances of compassion that surfaced amidst its icy grasp.

Isard’s power didn’t stem from any supernatural abilities linked to the Force, but rather from her cunning political skills and ruthless personality. Her readiness to employ biological weapons, torture, and extensive surveillance earned her a reputation as one of the most loathed antagonists in the Expanded Universe. Introducing Isard into the canon would introduce a political intrigue aspect to the Star Wars saga similar to that seen in Star Wars: Andor.

2. Admiral Natasi Daala

Admiral Daala, a renowned military tactician, held a unique position under Grand Moff Tarkin as both his confidante and protege. She spearheaded a string of destructive campaigns against the New Republic during her tenure as an Imperial leader. Unlike most of her peers, she was not motivated by the Force or Sith ideologies but rather, her unwavering conviction in the Empire’s supremacy and its military power.

Daala’s character is captivating due to her unyielding determination and intricate bond with Tarkin. For years following Tarkin’s demise, her refusal to halt aggressive actions became a persistent annoyance for the New Republic. The introduction of Daala in canon serves to introduce a strictly military adversary, emphasizing that the struggle against the Empire persisted even beyond Palpatine’s death.

1. Darth Nihilus

In the realm of Star Wars, Darth Nihilus was famously referred to as the Lord of Hunger. Unlike other Sith Lords who seek power or follow an ideology, this unique character is characterized by an unquenchable hunger for the very essence of the Force. This hunger doesn’t stem from a desire for power but rather from a terrifying, existential necessity. Rather than consuming entire planets like Galactus in Marvel Comics, Darth Nihilus drains energy directly from planets and living beings to keep himself alive.

The unique ability of Nihilus to control the Force sets him apart as an unforgettable and terrifying villain. Unlike conventional characters, he’s more akin to a natural disaster – a void that devours everything in its path. With the current Star Wars publishing focus on creatures drawing power from the Force (such as the Nameless), Nihilus could fit perfectly into this narrative continuity. His chilling silence and frightening powers make him an excellent choice for a brooding, unsettling Star Wars tale.

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2025-08-29 00:45