The Acolyte

A century before the Empire rises, the Republic and the Jedi Order are at the height of their influence, life mostly steady and orderly. That calm breaks when a string of violent crimes points to secrets within the Republic itself. The story follows a driven Jedi Master who takes on the case and comes face to face with a mysterious, lethal figure tied to his past. As investigations peel back layers of deception and hidden loyalties, the case forces choices about allegiance and truth without giving away later reversals or how it ends.

Released in 2024, the series was created by Leslye Headland, George Lucas, and Jasmyne Flournoy. It leans on Star Wars lore while trying new tones and styles, and it stars Amandla Stenberg and Lee Jung-jae in the principal roles.

The show prompted a lot of conversation among fans and critics, especially about its darker, more adult mood within the Star Wars universe and its focus on diverse leads. People debated its atmosphere, the shift away from familiar franchise beats, and how it expands the timeline for future stories.

Critical and audience reaction has been mixed, reflected in a Vote Average of 5.435/10 from 779 votes. Reviewers often pointed to strong production design and standout performances, especially from the leads, while reactions to pacing and plotting were uneven. Major themes include power, secrecy, and the legacy of institutions, with the mystery elements driving much of the plot tension.

As of its initial run it had not claimed major industry awards, though its high profile creators and cast kept it in the awards conversation for genre television. Some viewers and pundits treated it as an ambitious experiment in tone for the franchise, and its reception suggests it will continue to be discussed as future seasons or related projects develop.