'The Acolyte' Explainer: Here's why Jedi wear white robes in new 'Star Wars' show
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: 'The Acolyte' is set to stream on Disney+ on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, and the eight-episode-long series offers fans an eagerly awaited glimpse into the emergence of the dark side in George Lucas' 'Star Wars' franchise.
The series follows Jedi master Sol (Lee Jung-jae) as he investigates the serial murder of Jedis alongside Mae (Amandla Stenberg), only to come face to face with a mysterious villain.
'The Acolyte' unfolds roughly a century before 'Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace,' set at the tail end of the High Republic Era.
As we approach the series, fans have observed the Jedi sporting white robes instead of their traditional brown ones. Let us dive deep into the reason behind a change in the color of the robe.
White robes signify the Jedi Order in the High Republic era
The series is set in the High Republic era when the Jedi Order was at its peak and the white robes symbolize their prominence. Master Sol, who is revered as a classic Jedi wears the white robe as a teacher.
During the High Republic Era, the white robes also symbolized the ceremonial duties undertaken by the Jedi, distinguishing them with a unique identity throughout the galaxy.
The white and gold-colored garments were also referred to as mission robes in the High Republic Era. This was different from the 'Skywalker Saga' signifying the change in the thought process between the two eras.
Why is Master Indara wearing a brown robe?
An interesting observation from the trailer is the brief glimpse of Master Indara (Carrie-Anne Moss) wearing a brown robe, standing out from the rest of the Jedi who are dressed in white robes.
This could be a hint at her trying to blend in possibly performing a secret mission of some kind. It could also be a precursor to the 'Star Wars Prequel Trilogy' where the brown robes became customary.
The brown robes are a shift from the High Republic Era as the emphasis shifted from customs to actions. The contrast between the weapons used in the two eras can be seen as a reflection of the societal values and cultural attitudes of each era.
How to stream 'The Acolyte'?
'The Acolyte' will stream on Disney+ from Tuesday, June 4, 2024. To watch the series, you will need a Disney+ subscription.
The streaming service offers a basic package starting at $7.99 per month, featuring advertisements.
For an ad-free experience, viewers can opt for the premium plan priced at $13.99 per month or $139.99 per year.
'The Acolyte' trailer
'The Acolyte' is streaming on June 4, 2024 on Disney+.
