Top 10 Best Pirates in Star Wars History: From Crimson Jack to Skeleton Crew

The release of Star Wars: Skeleton Crew has brought the theme of piracy in the Star Wars universe to the forefront, rekindling interest in the franchise’s rich history filled with various piratical characters. From the original properties to the latest stories, the Star Wars saga has featured numerous pirates, each contributing a unique flair to the narrative. A standout among these characters is Crimson Jack, whose rumored live-action debut adds further allure to the mythos of piracy in a galaxy far, far away. With nearly half a century of storytelling and multiple continuities, the Star Wars franchise boasts a plethora of iconic pirates.

While pirates play a significant role in many ancillary materials, their appearances in the main cinematic saga are quite limited. Notably, Lando Calrissian refers to Han Solo as a pirate on several occasions. Various pirates, some with substantial roles in non-film properties, tend to linger in the background of the films. This article delves into the intricate history and legacy of the most memorable pirates across the Star Wars lore, from the original Legends continuity to the modern canon.

10. Jod Na Nawood

Jude Law as Jod Na Nawood in Skeleton Crew Entertainment Weekly preview

Jod Na Nawood emerges as a compelling character in Skeleton Crew, though much about him remains shrouded in mystery. Is he a rogue Force-sensitive individual or merely an opportunist? Initially appearing under the alias “Silvo,”Na Nawood leads a pirate raid which starkly contrasts typical Jedi behavior. This moral ambiguity raises questions about his true allegiances and capabilities.

Many fans speculate that Jod Na Nawood might serve as a modern interpretation of the esteemed Crimson Jack, a figure with a rich history in the original Legends continuity. Recent appearances in the Halcyon Legacy comic series suggest that Jod may endure beyond the events of Skeleton Crew, indicating a deeper connection to the franchise lore.

9. Kragan Gorr

Kragan Gorr first made his presence felt in the animated series Star Wars Resistance, serving as the cunning Quarren captain of the Warbird gang during the sequel trilogy era. Gorr masterminded attacks on the Colossus, often in collusion with the First Order. His bold leadership and ability to navigate complex political landscapes showcased his adaptability.

Notably, Gorr displayed remarkable audacity by demanding exorbitant fees from the First Order and later turned against them, showcasing his unpredictable nature. Ultimately, he attempted to exploit Clone Wars-era technology in a bid for power, solidifying his spot as a pivotal pirate during the rise of the First Order.

8. Maz Kanata

Maz Kanata holds out the Skywalker lightsaber to Rey in The Force Awakens.

Maz Kanata, a character introduced in The Force Awakens, operates from her ancient castle, which serves as a sanctuary for outlaws and criminals. Despite her benevolent nature, she has established herself as a seasoned pirate queen with a past that includes leading her own crew.

In the context of the High Republic era, her reputation is that of a Robin Hood figure, leveraging her influence to support both smugglers and pirates in need. Not unaware of the deeper currents in the galaxy, she offers assistance to Rey by providing Anakin’s lightsaber, linking her directly to the broader saga. Interestingly, her connections in the underworld include the character of Dexter Jettster, who once sailed under her flag.

7. Garris Shrike

Tobias Beckett salutes Han Solo in Solo: A Star Wars Story.

Garris Shrike’s legacy primarily stems from his existence in the original Legends continuity, where he served as an antagonist to Han Solo. While Tobias Beckett serves as Solo’s mentor in Solo: A Star Wars Story, Shrike embodies a darker aspect of that mentorship, being a violent and abusive figure.

Throughout his dark escapades, Shrike’s dealings often entwined with piracy, showcasing a complex history that indirectly shaped Han Solo’s character. In a dramatic conclusion, Shrike’s fate intertwines with a rival mercenary, signifying the perils of the cutthroat world he inhabited.

6. Sidon Ithano

Known widely as the “Crimson Corsair,” Sidon Ithano appears as a background character in The Force Awakens. This Delphidian pirate is recognized for his noble endeavors as he navigates the complexities of his profession. In a twist of fate, Finn almost joined Ithano’s crew, highlighting the intertwining paths in the chaotic aftermath of the First Order’s rise.

Sidon Ithano’s quest for treasure reflects his depth, as he stumbles upon Kix, a clone medic left frozen in time since the Clone Wars. Their subsequent collaboration against the forces of evil, including participation in the decisive Battle of Exegol, underscores Ithano’s role as a more benevolent pirate amidst a galaxy rife with danger.

5. Hondo Ohnaka

Hondo Ohnaka with his Kowakian monkey-lizard, Pilf Mukmuk, on his shoulder

Regarded as one of the most entertaining pirates in the Star Wars lore, Hondo Ohnaka first captivated audiences in Star Wars: The Clone Wars. His character strikes a unique balance between ludicrous charm and pirate cunning, as he manages to capture prominent galactic figures for ransom.

Evolving over time, Hondo never directly became part of the Rebellion but played a crucial role in its early success. While his crew eventually diminished due to the Empire’s dominance, Ohnaka persisted, founding Ohnaka Transport Solutions, which weaves his legacy into the ongoing struggle against oppression.

4. Crimson Jack

Crimson Jack in the 1977 Star Wars comic series

Crimson Jack rose to notoriety following the original trilogy, specifically framed as a rival of Han Solo. His history with Solo, while predominantly left unexplored, saw Jack evolve into a threat, especially following the theft of Death Star plans. His daring raids against Imperial vessels marked him as a significant player in the piratical landscape.

Despite a fierce rivalry that led to repeated confrontations, the climactic duel between Jack and Solo signified the culmination of their intertwined destinies, further solidifying the richness of the Star Wars narrative.

3. Dharus

Dharus and his pirates in Star Wars Legends

Dharus stands out from other pirates as a rare privateer, navigating the turbulent waters of the Galactic Civil War within the original Legends continuity. Despite initial motivations rooted in piracy, he allied nominally with the Rebel Alliance, demanding the continuous presence of observers from the Rebellion aboard his ship.

Though his treatment of these observers was less than compassionate, his value to the Rebellion became evident when they orchestrated his rescue during an encounter with the Empire. Ultimately, Dharma’s retirement from piracy marked a pivotal shift in his journey, although remnants of his tenacity manifested in his leadership of the Dhashaan Shield mercenary group.

2. Nym

Nym, the formidable Feeorin pirate captain, represents one of the more favorable depictions of piracy in the Legends continuity, having gained fame from his roles in Star Wars: Starfighter and Star Wars: Jedi Starfighter. Known for targeting nefarious organizations while largely avoiding unnecessary bloodshed, Nym’s persona embodies a complex morality.

Leading the Lok Revenants, he played a crucial role in resisting the Trade Federation, emerging as a key support to the Naboo Resistance during their invasion. His legacy as a benevolent pirate persisted even through the climactic events of the Clone Wars and the Galactic Civil War, demonstrating the nuanced portrayal of piracy within the Star Wars universe.

1. Xim the Despot

Xim the Despot’s legendary status in Star Wars Legends marks him as one of the galaxy’s most infamous tyrants. His conquests predate the Galactic Republic, as he ruled a vast empire that clashed with the Hutt Empire, leading to his eventual capture and downfall.

References in literature, notably Brian Daley’s Han Solo and the Lost Legacy, highlight his enduring legacy, particularly regarding the treasures and technologies that defined his aberrant reign. Xim’s turbulent history ultimately contributed to the greater narrative arc leading to the establishment of the benevolent Galactic Republic—a fascinating dichotomy at the heart of the Star Wars saga.