Star Wars’ Cancelled TV Show Secretly Explained One of George Lucas’ Biggest Prequel Trilogy Mysteries

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Over time, many fans have begun to view the Star Wars prequels more favorably, largely because they added depth and complexity to the established Star Wars universe. A key idea introduced in these films is the Jedi prophecy surrounding the “Chosen One,” destined to bring balance to the Force. While Anakin Skywalker is considered this Chosen One, the prequels never fully explain what achieving balance actually means. This ambiguity has remained a major question for Star Wars fans ever since The Phantom Menace came out in 1999.

The mystery surrounding a key element of the new Star Wars series, The Acolyte, may have been solved thanks to a recently published art book. The Art of Star Wars: The Acolyte (available on Amazon) features concept art of the tattoo seen on Mae’s forehead – called “Mae’s Ascension Mark” – and was designed by Robb Crafer, the show’s hair and makeup artist. Amandla Stenberg, who plays Mae, has explained what the tattoo means and how it fits into the larger Star Wars story.

Stenberg explained that a presentation called ‘Force Balance’ generated a lot of interest. This led them to explore how the characters Osha and Mae represent opposing forces. They ultimately landed on the idea of a tattoo symbolizing this balance – a yin and yang design, with Mae embodying yin and Osha representing yang. The spiral shape of the tattoo also signifies that this balance between light and dark has existed throughout time.

What The Acolyte‘s Explanation of Balance of the Force Means for Star Wars

The prequel films portray the prophecy of “bringing balance to the Force” from the Jedi’s perspective. They believe it foretells a powerful individual who will restore balance by eliminating the Sith. Given what the movies show, it’s easy to conclude that “balance” meant the light side winning and creating a peaceful era. This is why George Lucas stated that Anakin Skywalker fulfilled the prophecy in Return of the Jedi when he defeated Palpatine. Although his path was complex, he ultimately destroyed the Sith by (apparently) killing the Emperor.

Stenberg offers a more nuanced understanding of the Force. She proposes it’s not simply a power used by the Jedi, but a cosmic force that actively maintains balance between light and darkness throughout the galaxy. This balance is achieved through unseen mechanisms, and the Force will naturally correct itself if either side gains too much power, as both light and dark are essential. This is a more intricate concept that challenges the rigid beliefs of the Jedi. The fact that Lucasfilm embraced Stenberg’s idea for The Acolyte demonstrates their commitment to developing the Star Wars universe and moving beyond familiar themes.

Throughout The Acolyte, the show explores the idea of balance in the Force through the relationship between twin sisters, Mae and Osha. Both were created using the Force by Mother Aniseya, and they naturally complement each other. When they were younger and part of Aniseya’s group, Mae was eager to become a witch, while Osha was more drawn to the Jedi. As adults, the series begins with Mae training as a Sith and Osha working as an independent mercenary. By the end of the show, their roles have reversed: Osha becomes the new apprentice to Qimir, and Mae – after having her memory erased – is recruited by the Jedi to help find him.

The relationship between Mae and Osha in The Acolyte is a lot like the light and dark sides of the Force – they’re often in conflict, but deeply connected as sisters. Many fans believe they share a special Force connection called a dyad, which would explain their unique bond. Unfortunately, the show was cancelled after only one season, so we won’t see this relationship fully explored, but it still offers a compelling idea.

The Acolyte’s Balance of the Force Explanation Is Rooted in the Skywalker Saga

While Amandla Stenberg’s description of the Force balancing light and dark is fascinating, the idea isn’t new to Star Wars. The show’s take on balance actually builds on concepts introduced in the Skywalker Saga. It especially echoes a lesson Luke Skywalker gives Rey in The Last Jedi about why the Jedi Order needed to change.

Luke explains to his student that the Force isn’t exclusive to the Jedi, and its power will endure even if they disappear. Through meditation, Rey experiences visions of life, death, and rebirth, as well as peace and conflict, leading her to understand that the Force connects everything. She realizes that both light and darkness are essential for maintaining balance. This demonstrates a much more profound understanding of the Force, and how much Luke has matured. While he remains committed to the light, he recognizes the necessity of balance, and believes the Jedi previously held a limited and flawed view of how the Force operates and the interconnectedness of its two sides.

In the throne room scene, Supreme Leader Snoke observes that as Kylo Ren grows in power (embracing the dark side), a counterforce will emerge in the form of Rey (representing the light). This relationship between Rey and Kylo Ren illustrates the idea that light and darkness are interconnected and maintain a balance. As the First Order gained control and Kylo Ren became a villain, the Force guided Rey on her path, making her a beacon of hope for the Resistance in the fight against the First Order.

Lucasfilm has plenty of room to develop these concepts in future Star Wars projects. Rey seems central to the franchise’s movie plans, potentially leading the announced New Jedi Order film or appearing in another project like Simon Kinberg’s planned trilogy. Though she defeated Palpatine by channeling past Jedi in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, Rey still benefited from Luke’s training and should continue to follow his guidance as she rebuilds the Jedi Order. While Disney might not fully explore the idea of “Gray Jedi,” it’s important for Rey to remember the Force isn’t exclusive to the Jedi, and that light and dark sides are interconnected. This opens up exciting possibilities for exploring the Force in new ways and deepening viewers’ understanding of it.

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2026-02-25 01:21