“The Acolyte: Exploring the High Republic Era with Vernestra Rwoh and More Exciting Characters”

The upcoming Star Wars series, The Acolyte, is set to take fans further back into the franchise’s past than any other live-action project. While many have already delved into the High Republic era through Disney and Marvel Comics’ publishing material, the Disney+ series will introduce a new version of a familiar character.

Vernestra Rwoh, a Mirialan Jedi Master, will be portrayed by Rebecca Henderson in The Acolyte. Henderson describes this version of Vernestra as a “badass” and a revered Jedi Master who has aged and gained wisdom over the years. Despite her older age, Vernestra will still wield her iconic purple lightsaber, which she transformed into a lightwhip as a teenager.

The series is shrouded in mystery, but it is expected to explore how the Sith rose to power leading up to The Phantom Menace. Lead star Amandla Stenberg describes The Acolyte as the “prequel to the prequels,” maintaining the prestige and monarchical vibe of the prequels while incorporating contemporary and relatable elements.

A new still from the series showcases Charlie Barnett’s Yord Fandar and Lee Jung-jae’s Sol in their Jedi robes, hinting at the epic battles and mysteries that await viewers. The Acolyte also stars Manny Jacinto, Dafne Keen, Jodie Turner-Smith, Dean-Charles Chapman, Joonas Suotamo, and Carrie-Anne Moss.

Created and showrun by Leslye Headland, The Acolyte is set to premiere on Disney+ on June 4. With an all-star cast and a promising storyline, fans of the Star Wars franchise are eagerly anticipating this new chapter in the galaxy far, far away.