Top 10 Star Wars Legends Characters Now Part of Canon

The Star Wars franchise is renowned not only for its breathtaking cinematography and thrilling narratives but also for its vast array of compelling characters. Many iconic figures originated in the Legends canon, and since Disney’s acquisition of Lucasfilm, some of these characters have successfully transitioned into the new official canon. Following this acquisition, filmmakers sought to explore fresh themes and ideas, leading to the rebranding of the original Star Wars Expanded Universe as “Legends.”Over the past decade, newer narratives have reintroduced several Legends characters, captivating audiences with their unique traits and significant influence on the Star Wars galaxy.

While a number of these characters have made substantial appearances across various media, including onscreen portrayals, others have been mentioned only in passing, suggesting the potential for their return in future projects. This article highlights 10 standout Star Wars Legends characters who have been successfully integrated into canon, each memorable for their distinctive characteristics, narrative impact, or faithful adaptation into the current timeline.

Table of Contents

• Rukh
• Crimson Jack
• Prince Xizor
• Beilert Valance
• Durge
• Sadow from us
• Captain Pellaeon
• Exar Kun
• darth revan
• Grand Admiral Thrawn

10. Rukh

A Deadly Noghri Bodyguard and Assassin

Rukh, a formidable Noghri assassin and personal bodyguard to Grand Admiral Thrawn, made his literary debut in Timothy Zahn’s Thrawn trilogy. Known for his lethal stealth and intimidating demeanor, Rukh was originally depicted as executing those who disappointed Thrawn. His character arc took an intriguing turn as he eventually allied with the Rebellion upon discovering the Empire’s betrayal of his people, culminating in a dramatic showdown against Thrawn.

In the canon universe, Rukh maintained his role as a relentless hunter for Thrawn, appearing in the animated series Star Wars Rebels. Despite proving his skill against the rebels on Lothal, his fate was decidedly less redemptive, as he met his end at the hands of Zeb Orrelios during the series finale.

9. Crimson Jack

A Pirate Captain and Rival of Han Solo

Crimson Jack emerged as one of the earliest characters introduced to the Expanded Universe shortly after the original Star Wars film released in 1977. In an unexpected twist of fate, he and his pirate crew ambushed Han Solo, intercepting crucial reward money intended for Jabba the Hutt, which ignited a series of confrontations with the Rebel Alliance.

Recently reintroduced in the comic series Star Wars: Halcyon Legacy, Jack’s story takes place three decades post-A New Hope. A curious reference in the Star Wars: Skeleton Crew also alludes to a character known as Jod Na Nawood, who may be the same person as Crimson Jack or simply shares the moniker.

8. Prince Xizor

The Leader of the Black Sun Crime Syndicate

As the influential head of the notorious Black Sun syndicate during the Galactic Empire’s reign, Prince Xizor sought to impress Emperor Palpatine through ruthless means, including plotting the assassination of Luke Skywalker. His ambition ultimately led to his downfall when Darth Vader learned of his schemes, resulting in the destruction of Xizor’s orbital stronghold.

While Xizor’s presence in the canon is limited to mentions, he has been acknowledged in various materials, hinting that elements of his Legends story could eventually be re-explored within the current narrative framework.

7. Beilert Valance

A Stormtrooper Turned Cyborg Bounty Hunter

Beilert Valance’s intriguing narrative follows his transformation from an Imperial stormtrooper to a cyborg bounty hunter after a catastrophic injury. His journey, marked by a profound hatred for droids, was eventually influenced by a life-changing encounter with Luke Skywalker and his companions.

Notably, Valance made a return in a recent Legends story that was published post-2014 reboot alongside his appearances in current Marvel comics, demonstrating his relevance amid both timelines.

6. Durge

A Nearly Invincible Bounty Hunter

Durge, a Gen’Dai bounty hunter known for his unyielding resilience and lethal abilities, represented one the most formidable adversaries in the Star Wars saga. His fierce hatred for Mandalorians drove him to fight for the Separatists during the Clone Wars, where he had numerous encounters with Jedi like Obi-Wan Kenobi.

In the current canon, Durge has continued his exploits in the bounty hunting realm post-Clone Wars, even forming unexpected alliances with well-known characters, making him a compelling figure across both continuities.

5. Naga Sadow

A Brutal Dark Lord of the Sith

Naga Sadow’s story unfolds 5,000 years before the central saga, where he fervently expanded the Sith Empire through conquest. Although his ambitions were thwarted in the Great Hyperspace War, his legacy endures through various references in canon materials.

Most notably, Sadow’s visage was acknowledged in media linked to the Rise of Skywalker, hinting at continuity between Legends and canon timelines regarding Sith lore.

4. Captain Pellaeon

Grand Admiral Thrawn’s Right-Hand Man

Captain Gilad Pellaeon’s loyalty to Thrawn and the Galactic Empire was unwavering, but his insight eventually led him toward a path of diplomacy with the New Republic. His character has been explored in both Legends and canon, where he navigates the complexities of post-imperial conflict and reconciliation.

Recent canon entries suggest Pellaeon’s strategic prowess will play a crucial role in upcoming stories as the universe evolves.

3. Exar Kun

A Jedi Turned Dark Lord of the Sith

Exar Kun’s journey from Jedi to Dark Lord epitomizes the struggle between light and dark. His quest for power and eventual defeat, culminating in his entrapment on Yavin 4, echoes through Star Wars mythology. While he has not made a prominent appearance in canon, his character has been referenced, opening the door for his potential revival in future narratives.

2. Darth Revan

From Sith Conqueror to Jedi Savior

One of the most intricate characters in the Star Wars universe is Darth Revan, a former Jedi who fell to the dark side only to redeem himself later. His complex history—including his battle against Darth Malak and the Sith Empire—has a rich narrative presence in both Legends and contemporary materials.

Planned appearances in the Clone Wars and references in the visual dictionary for The Rise of Skywalker suggest that Revan’s legacy may be woven back into the canon, establishing his lasting significance.

1. Grand Admiral Thrawn

The Most Cunning Military Strategist in Star Wars

As perhaps the most iconic character to transition from Legends to canon, Grand Admiral Thrawn has captivated audiences with his strategic brilliance and commanding presence. Since his introduction in the Thrawn trilogy, he has become a pillar of the Star Wars narrative, captivating generations of fans.

Thrawn’s character has not only appeared prominently in Star Wars Rebels, but also in recent live-action contexts. His foresight and cunning approach to warfare are likely to continue shaping future story arcs, solidifying his status as a cornerstone of Star Wars lore.

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