7 Underrated Star Wars Characters No One Talks About

Star Wars is a saga defined by its iconic heroes and villains, from the likes of Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader to Rey and Kylo Ren. Their stories are typically epic battles between the light and dark side, and their impact on the galaxy is far-reaching. Yet, for every main character who gets the spotlight, there are countless others who are just as important, but remain in the background. These are the unsung heroes and intriguing figures who often don’t get the recognition they deserve on a larger stage in the fandom. They’ve faced down danger, led rebellions, and shaped the course of events in ways that are easily overlooked. 

These seven figures made remarkable contributions in their lifetimes, proving bravery and detailed characterization are not only limited to the Skywalkers.

7. Quinlan Vos

A maverick Jedi Master with a unique connection to the Force, Quinlan Vos was a master tracker and an expert at working in the shadows. Unlike his more conventional peers, he often worked under the cover of darkness and shadow in the criminal underworld, which led to a blurring of the lines between light and dark for him on a personal level. His different approach to being a Jedi and his troubled past allowed for an exploration of what makes someone wholly good or wholly bad. Quinlan was constantly battling his inner demons while trying to serve the Jedi Order.

Quinlan’s story is one of redemption and resilience. He was a survivor of Order 66 and helped establish The Path—a secret network of Republic/Jedi sympathizers who helped shelter other surviving Jedi and get them transport to a safer place. His tireless work shows that, despite all his inner turmoil between light and dark, Quinlan alway had the heart of a true Jedi and every life he saved speaks to his heroics.

6. Aayla Secura

A Twi’lek Jedi Knight who rigidly adhere to the Jedi Code, Aayla Secura was known for her exceptional lightsaber skills and graceful combat style. She was a valued general in the Clone Wars, commanding her clone troopers with a cool-headed resolve and tactical brilliance. Her slender build and calm nature served as a distraction to her enemies who did not expect just how fierce and effective she was on the battlefield against both droids and Separatist forces. Aayla was Quinlan Vos’ Padawan, learning a great deal from a Jedi of his caliber and forming a father-daughter like bond between the two.

Thanks to her talent and Quinlan’s teachings, Aayla grew from an enthusiastic Padawan into a respected Jedi Master. Her end during Order 66 is known for being one of the most brutal and tragic out of all the Jedi. While on Felucia, Aayla’s troopers immediately turned on her and shot her in the back. Though that shot already made her incapable of defending herself, the troopers continued to shoot her over and over again, even after she was clearly dead. Aayla’s death, though gruesome and heartbreaking, alerted Yoda that something was amiss in the Force, thus saving his life from his own clone troopers during the Purge. Aayla’s unwavering commitment to the Jedi code, even in her final moments, makes her a symbol of the Order’s tragic fall.

5. Satine Kryze

The Duchess of Mandalore, Satine Kryze was a pacifist leader who sought to keep her people out of the violence of the Clone Wars. This pacifist stance was highly controversial, as the Mandalorians were known for their long history as warrior. However, Satine was fiercely devoted to peace, even when her sister, Bo-Katan Kryze, joined the a terrorist group of Mandalorians who wanted to reclaim the throne through violence and participate in the war. Satine’s complex history with Obi-Wan Kenobi also made her a central figure in the politics of the era, despite Mandalore’s neutrality. She was a strong-willed and saavy ruler, often clashing with the more traditional, warrior-centric Mandalorians.

Satine’s ultimate death at the hands of Darth Maul was a devestating moment in the series for both fans and Obi-Wan. Her death not only marked a dark turn for Mandalore, but also broke Obi-Wan’s heart in a way no other death could, as Obi-Wan and Satine had long loved one another, but would never have abandoned their duties for romance. Her legacy is a testament to the idea that leadership can be defined by compassion and a commitment to non-violence, even in the face of war and terror.

4. Breha Organa

As the Queen of Alderaan and Princess Leia’s adoptive mother, Breha Organa was more than just a royal figurehead. She was a key leader in the early days of the Rebel Alliance, using her position and influence to covertly support the fight against the Galactic Empire. Her grace and quiet strength were the perfect complement to her husband, Bail Organa, as the couple risked everything for the cause.

Breha’s role in raising Leia as both a princess and a future Rebel leader is understated in the wider Star Wars canon. Breha raised her daughter true to the spirit of the Rebellion, instilling the courage and political savvy that would not only define Leia’s legacy, but honor Padme’s as well. Her tragic death in the destruction of Alderaan was a terrible loss, and a reminder of the Empire’s endless and unpredictable cruelty.

3. Kit Fisto

The Nautolan Jedi Master, Kit Fisto, was instantly recognizable by his unique head tentacles and his seemingly permanent, friendly smile. But beneath the smile was a skilled warrior and a compassionate leader. He was known for his mastery of Form I (Shii-Cho) lightsaber combat and his ability to fight underwater as a Nautolan, making him a versatile and effective fighter in almost any environment.

Fisto’s talent as a Jedi was so great that he clashed with General Grievous and lived to tale the tale, unlike so many other Jedi. Later, he was one of the Jedi Masters who attempted to arrest Supreme Chancellor Palpatine. His confident and almost casual approach to even the most dangerous situations made him a beloved among the Jedi themselves. Sadly, he was defeated during the confrontation with Palpatine, along with his fellow Jedi Masters, including Mace Windu

2. Wedge Antilles

A true hero of the Rebel Alliance, Wedge Antilles was a highly skilled starfighter pilot and one of the few to survive both attacks on the Death Star. He flew alongside Luke Skywalker in the Battle of Yavin and was a key pilot in the decisive Battle of Endor. His courage, skill, and loyalty made him indispensable to the Rebellion.

Wedge’s remarkable survival record and his consistent contributions to some of the most major victories of the Rebellion set him apart. He was not a Force-sensitive hero or did not come from any special lineage. He became a legend because of his talent and bravery as a regular person fighting for a greater cause; a plot point that is not often seen in Star Wars canon. His story and stunning achievements prove that one doesn’t need to be a Jedi to change the galaxy.

1. Sabé

Sabé served as a handmaiden to Queen Padmé Amidala of Naboo, but her role was far more significant than that title implies. She was a trusted confidante and a double, standing in for the Queen in public appearances to protect her from assassination attempts and even making political decisions on Padmé’s behalf. Her striking resemblance to Padmé and her full devotion to her Queen-turned-senator made her an invaluable part of Padmé’s life, not just as a political piece, but as a trusted confidante and friend.

Sabé’s unwavering loyalty and courage continued long after Padmé’s death. Her and her fellow handmaidens called themselves Amidalians, dedicating their lives to uncovering the truth behind their queen’s passing and seeking justice. The Amidalian movements extended beyond the handmaidens to the people of Naboo who vowed to remain loyal to Padmé’s ideals. Sabé’s story of loyalty, even in the face of Darth Vader and the Emperor themselves, makes her one of the most underrated figures from the prequel era.

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