The Mandalorian has completed its third season, leaving fans eager to know more about one of the show’s most enigmatic characters: Grand Admiral Thrawn. Despite only being mentioned briefly in the show’s second and third season, Thrawn has a rich history in the Star Wars expanded universe, and his inclusion in The Mandalorian has sparked speculation and excitement among fans.

Who is Grand Admiral Thrawn?

In the Star Wars expanded universe, Thrawn was first introduced in Timothy Zahn’s 1991 novel “Heir to the Empire” as the leader of the remnants of the Empire five years after the events of “Return of the Jedi”. Thrawn is a blue-skinned humanoid with red eyes, and is known for his strategic genius and tactical brilliance. He rose through the ranks of the Imperial Navy and was made a Grand Admiral, one of only twelve in the Empire.

Thrawn is also known for his love of art and culture, which he uses to gain insight into the cultures he is fighting against. He is especially interested in the art of the ancient Chiss species, of which he is a member. Thrawn’s complex and nuanced character has made him a fan favorite in the Star Wars expanded universe, and his inclusion in The Mandalorian has sparked speculation that he could play a major role in the show’s future.

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Thrawn’s inclusion in The Mandalorian was hinted at in the show’s second season finale, when fan-favorite character Ahsoka Tano name-dropped him as someone she was seeking. This led to speculation that Thrawn could be the show’s main villain going forward. In the Star Wars expanded universe, Thrawn is known for leading the remnants of the Empire after the fall of the Emperor, and could be a potential threat to the New Republic that was established in the wake of the original trilogy.

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There have been rumors that Thrawn will appear in the upcoming Ahsoka Tano spin-off series, which will star Rosario Dawson in the titular role. Dawson’s portrayal of Tano in The Mandalorian was widely praised by fans, and her inclusion in her own series has led to speculation that Thrawn could also make an appearance. The fact that Thrawn was name-dropped in The Mandalorian could be a hint that he will be a major player in the future of the Star Wars universe.

Overall, Grand Admiral Thrawn is a fascinating and complex character in the Star Wars expanded universe, and his inclusion in The Mandalorian has fans excited for what’s to come. Whether he will be a major player in the show’s future or simply a passing reference remains to be seen, but his legacy in the Star Wars expanded universe ensures that fans will be clamoring for more information about this mysterious blue-skinned strategist.