Star Wars: Ashley Eckstein Urges Fans To Watch Antimated Shows Ahead of Ahsoka

Next month, Disney+ will debut Star Wars: Ahsoka, featuring the return of Rosario Dawson as Ahsoka Tano. While Dawson portrayed the character in live-action during the second season of The Mandalorian, Ahsoka was originally voiced by Ashley Eckstein in animated projects like Star Wars: Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels. Eckstein graciously gave her "blessing" to Dawson when she took over the role, and the two actors met for the first time last year. In a recent interview with CinemaBlend, Eckstein expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming series, emphasizing the importance of watching the animated shows before diving into Ahsoka.

Eckstein said, "For everyone eagerly anticipating the Ahsoka series, I highly recommend watching Clone Wars, Star Wars Rebels, and even Star Wars: Tales of the Jedi. Without delving into these crucial backstories, you won't fully enjoy the Ahsoka series, which is incredibly exciting." She further explained, "We'll witness new and incredible stories, but the richness and depth of understanding and appreciation for what unfolds in the series hinges on knowing the backstory. I'm grateful that Disney+ offers Clone Wars, Rebels, and Tales of the Jedi. Whenever I can, I urge fans to binge-watch these series before diving into Ahsoka. It truly matters."

Continuing her thoughts, Eckstein emphasized the significance of Clone Wars, Rebels, and Tales of the Jedi within the larger Star Wars universe. She said, "Just as most Star Wars fans revisit the movies, starting with Episodes IV, V, and VI, and then I, II, and III, now Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels have become integral parts of that timeline. They contribute to the overarching story and journey of these characters. Without watching these series, you miss out on crucial connections. I highly recommend that fans watch them."

What Is Ahsoka About?

Prepare for the highly anticipated return of fan-favorite Star Wars hero Ahsoka Tano in the all-new Disney+ series. Set to premiere in August, Star Wars: Ahsoka stars Rosario Dawson, reprising her role as the beloved character. The series picks up after the thrilling events of The Mandalorian and The Book of Boba Fett, where we witnessed Ahsoka's quest to find Grand Admiral Thrawn, portrayed by Lars Mikkelsen, and her involvement in Luke Skywalker's training of Grogu. Embarking on a new mission, Ahsoka is joined by her trusted allies Sabine Wren, played by Natasha Liu Bordizzo, and Hera Syndulla, portrayed by Mary Elizabeth Winstead. Together, they set out to track down Thrawn, who disappeared to the farthest reaches of space following a clash with Ezra Bridger, played by Eman Esfandi. Star Wars: Ahsoka marks the latest thrilling addition to Lucasfilm's live-action series lineup, helmed by the talented duo of Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni.