'Star Wars: Tales of the Empire': How Disney+ series fits into the iconic 'Star Wars' universe
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Disney+ is set to launch its new animated series 'Star Wars: Tales of the Empire' on Saturday, May 4. This series, which builds on the expansive 'Star Wars' universe, presents two intertwined stories.
Like its predecessor 'Tales of the Jedi' in 2022, which focused on Count Dooku and Ahsoka Tano, 'Tales of the Empire' explores the journeys of Morgan Elsbeth from 'The Mandalorian' and Barriss Offee from 'The Clone Wars'.
As the release date approaches, fans are curious about whether 'Star Wars: Tales of the Empire' is part of the official canon and where it slots into the franchise timeline. This new series, announced at 'Star Wars Celebration Europe 2023', serves as the second season in the 'Tales' series.
Here's a brief overview of what we know about 'Star Wars: Tales of the Empire' and its place in the 'Star Wars' universe.
What is 'Star Wars: Tales of the Empire' about?
The 'Star Wars Tales' series started with 'Tales of the Jedi', a six-episode anthology that brought new stories about Count Dooku and Ahsoka Tano to fans.
The upcoming season, 'Tales of the Empire', will delve into the lives of two characters linked to the Galactic Empire: Barriss Offee and Morgan Elsbeth. While they played minor roles in the Prequel Trilogy, these characters take center stage in other series—Barriss Offee in 'The Clone Wars' and Morgan Elsbeth as the antagonist in the 'Ahsoka' series.
This season will particularly explore Morgan Elsbeth's backstory. However, fans on seem especially eager for the episodes about Barriss Offee, whose fate remains a mystery within the franchise.
Following the format of its predecessor, 'Tales of the Empire' will feature six brief episodes, likely dividing the focus between the two main characters.
Is 'Tales of the Empire' considered canon in the 'Star Wars' universe?
Since the previous season is recognized as canon, 'Tales of the Empire' is also part of the official 'Star Wars' canon in the new Disney timeline.
This is consistent, as nearly all major 'Star Wars' projects since Disney's acquisition are considered canon, while earlier works are classified under Legends.
Additionally, the series is created by Dave Filoni, a prominent figure in the current 'Star Wars' landscape.
Where does 'Tales of the Empire' fit within the 'Star Wars' universe?
'Tales of the Empire' is believed to begin around the year 20 BBY, which means some parts of the series occur before 'Revenge of the Sith'. This is evidenced by the appearance of General Grievous in the series. Given the time jumps in the previous season, it's likely that segments of the series will also take place during the Galactic Empire era.
'Star Wars: Tales of the Empire' trailer
All 6 episodes of 'Tales of the Empire' will premiere on Disney+ on May 4, 2024.