Order 66’s Painful Impact Amplified by Star Wars’ New TV Series

In a startling twist in Star Wars: Skeleton Crew, the implications of Order 66 have been deepened once more. Originally introduced in Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith, Order 66 was a gruesome act that became even more heart-wrenching through various Star Wars films and series over the past two decades. Notably, Star Wars: The Clone Wars delved deeply into the ramifications of this harrowing event for the clones, while Obi-Wan Kenobi portrayed the brutality faced by younglings with a level of intensity that left a lasting impact.

Now, Skeleton Crew has unwittingly added to the crushing reality of Order 66. Set during the New Republic Era, this new series shifts focus from Jedi to a story primarily centered on pirates. Despite this shift, a critical moment involving children facing intimidation from an adult has shed new light on the previously understood horrors of Order 66.

Fern Can’t Believe A “Grown-Up”Would Hurt Kids

Jod Na Nawood’s Actions Really Were Shocking

Tak Rennod's lair in Skeleton Crew Episode 5

Wim with a lightsaber in Skeleton Crew Episode 5

In the fifth episode of Skeleton Crew, characters Jod Na Nawood, SM-33, and the young protagonists embark on an adventurous quest to the planet Lanupa, encountering the lair of the infamous pirate Captain Tak Rennod. However, amidst the allure of treasure, Jod reveals his true intentions. Lacking the expected adult responsibility, he resorts to intimidation, threatening Fern with a knife, demanding that she surrender her leadership role.

While Jod’s motivations for treasure weren’t overly surprising, his willingness to resort to violence against Fern, someone he had seemed to care for, was disheartening. Fern’s reaction—a mix of disbelief and innocence—reflects her shock, exclaiming, “You’re a grown-up. You can’t fight us; we’re just kids.”

For Fern, this behavior is incomprehensible, as it starkly contrasts with her protected upbringing. Although At Attin has its challenges, she has never encountered such malevolence before. This unsettling moment serves as a harsh awakening for the children, serving as an analog to the grim realities of the galaxy—a reality that resonates deeply with those affected by Order 66.

Order 66 Proved Grown-Ups Can Do Much Worse Than Fight Kids

In Star Wars, Kids Have Sadly Been Hurt By Adults Many Times

Anakin Skywalker and the 501st march on the temple in Revenge of the Sith

Fern’s response to Jod’s threat underscores a fundamental expectation: adults should shield children, not torment them. Unfortunately, the Star Wars universe has repeatedly depicted adults violating this sacred trust, prominently highlighted during Order 66. While Jod’s actions are alarming, the execution of Order 66 saw Anakin Skywalker and the clone troopers systematically slaughter younglings without a hint of hesitation.

This tragic revelation intensifies the emotional weight of the narrative; even young Jedi were left bewildered and terrified during Order 66, mirroring Fern’s confusion in her encounter with Jod. This dynamic was powerfully illustrated in Revenge of the Sith when a youngling innocently questioned Anakin, only to be met with the shocking ignition of his lightsaber. Fern’s poignant observation that such behavior is beyond the purview of “grown-ups” amplifies the sorrowful nature of the past traumas.

Realizing How Confused The Younglings Must Have Been Is Brutal

Star Wars’ Most Devastating Event Gets Worse All The Time

Anakin Skywalker igniting his lightsaber in a room full of younglings in Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith.

The anguish surrounding Order 66 becomes increasingly profound with each new portrayal, including the insights offered by Skeleton Crew. While the fear experienced by the younglings during this traumatic time was evident, the added nuance of their realization that adults are supposed to protect them adds a heartbreaking layer to their suffering. Fortunately, while the young characters in Skeleton Crew faced distress, their outcomes were ultimately less tragic.

Initially showcased in Revenge of the Sith

Skeleton Crew Release Date Schedule
Episode	Director	Release Date
Episode 1	Jon Watts	December 2
Episode 2	David Lowery	December 2
Episode 3	David Lowery	December 10
Episode 4	The Daniels	December 17
Episode 5	Jake Schreier	December 24
Episode 6	Bryce Dallas Howard	December 31
Episode 7	Lee Isaac Chung	January 7
Episode 8	Jon Watts	January 14