Mara Jade: The Complete Guide to Star Wars' Most Iconic Legends Character

Few Star Wars characters have captivated fans quite like Mara Jade. Despite never appearing in a movie or TV series, she remains one of the most beloved figures in the Star Wars Legends timeline.

Her evolution from Imperial assassin to Jedi Master spans decades of storytelling, creating one of the most compelling character arcs in the franchise. First introduced in 1991 in Timothy Zahn’s landmark novel Heir to the Empire, she transformed from the Emperor’s Hand to Luke Skywalker’s wife in a journey that changed Star Wars forever.

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When I first encountered Mara Jade in the Thrawn Trilogy, I was admittedly skeptical. How could this new character - an Imperial assassin who wanted to kill Luke Skywalker - possibly fit into the Star Wars story I knew?

But as I followed her journey from the Emperor’s deadly agent to a complex hero wrestling with her past, I discovered what countless other fans have: Mara Jade represents some of the best character development in Star Wars literature.

Her impact on Star Wars fandom endures far beyond her last appearance. Even today, discussions across Reddit, YouTube, and every social media platform where you can find Star Wars fans regularly debate how Mara Jade Skywalker could fit into modern Star Wars.

With shows like The Mandalorian and Ahsoka continuing to explore the post-Return of the Jedi era, speculation about her potential return has only intensified.

What Makes Her a Fan Favorite

• A uniquely compelling arc from Imperial assassin to Jedi Master

• One of the first complex female leads in Star Wars literature

• A perfect foil and eventual partner to Luke Skywalker

• Writing that gave her agency, skills, and depth beyond just being a love interest

• A character whose absence from modern canon has only increased fan interest

About This Guide

As one of the leading resources for Star Wars Expanded Universe content, we’ve spent years analyzing the books, comics, and games featuring Mara Jade.

This comprehensive guide will explore:

• Her complete timeline in Star Wars Legends

• Every major appearance across books, comics, and games

• Why she remains so influential in Star Wars storytelling

• The ongoing debate about her potential return to Canon

Whether discovering Mara Jade for the first time or seeking to deepen your understanding of this iconic character, you’ll find everything you need to know about the Emperor’s Hand, who became one of Star Wars’ most compelling heroes.

Who Is Mara Jade? A Complete Character Overview

Mara Jade’s Origins and Creation

Mara Jade debuted in Heir to the Empire, the first book in The Thrawn Trilogy, which helped relaunch Star Wars storytelling after Return of the Jedi. Author Timothy Zahn designed Mara as a strong, independent character who could compete with Star Wars icons like Luke Skywalker, Leia Organa, and Han Solo.

After all, Zahn wanted Mara to be far more than just a love interest—she had her own motivations, backstory, and skills.

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As the Emperor’s Hand, Mara was one of Emperor Palpatine’s most trusted operatives, carrying out secret missions across the galaxy. She even once disguised herself as a dancing girl named Arica to infiltrate Jabba the Hutt’s Palace on Tatooine, awaiting Luke Skywalker while navigating the dangers of the Hutt’s dark domain.

She was stealthy, highly trained, and deadly, making her a formidable character from the start.

How Lucasfilm and George Lucas Reacted

Despite her popularity in the books, Mara Jade never made it into the Star Wars movies. One of the main reasons is that George Lucas reportedly disliked the idea of Luke Skywalker having a wife. Lucas envisioned Luke as a monk-like Jedi, entirely devoted to the Force, which clashes with the very existence of Mara Jade Skywalker.

Nonetheless, Mara Jade has an extensive history in Star Wars literature. When Disney acquired Lucasfilm in 2012, the company reset the Expanded Universe, removing her from the official Star Wars continuity. However, her legacy remains strong, and many fans still hope for her return to Canon in some form.

Mara Jade’s Role in the Star Wars Expanded Universe

Thanks to her extensive role in Star Wars Legends, Mara Jade wasn’t just a side character—she was a fully developed figure with one of the best arcs in Star Wars history. Over time, she evolved through four key phases:

1. The Emperor’s Hand (Imperial Assassin) – Trained from childhood to be one of Palpatine’s most elite operatives, Mara carried out espionage missions and assassinations across the galaxy. During this period, she believed in the Empire’s vision and saw herself as a force for order and galactic power.

2. Smuggler and Mercenary – After the Emperor died in Return of the Jedi, Mara was left without purpose and haunted by his final command: Kill Luke Skywalker. She drifted into the underworld, working for the smuggler Talon Karrde, where she built a reputation as a skilled operative outside of the Empire.

3. Jedi Knight and Ally to Luke – Over time, Mara overcame her Imperial conditioning, realized Luke was not her enemy and began training as a Jedi. She was crucial in defending the New Republic from threats like Grand Admiral Thrawn, the Yuuzhan Vong, and dark Jedi.

4. Jedi Master and Wife of Luke Skywalker – In Vision of the Future, Mara and Luke confessed their love for each other and married. She became a Jedi Master in the New Jedi Order, mentoring young Jedi and fighting in the galaxy’s most significant conflicts. This period lasted for the rest of her story in the Legends timeline.

From an Imperial agent to a hero of the New Jedi Order, this unlikely journey remains one of Star Wars storytelling’s richest and most satisfying character evolutions.

LucasArts | Jake Bartok

Mara Jade and Luke Skywalker: A Relationship That Defined Legends

Mara Jade’s relationship with Luke Skywalker was one of the best-developed romances in Star Wars Legends. Unlike other relationships in the saga that formed almost instantaneously through periods of intense emotional drama, the bond between Luke and Mara took years to grow, evolving naturally over multiple books.

Lucasfilm Ltd.

• From Enemies to Allies: In Heir to the Empire, Mara was obsessed with killing Luke, believing he had destroyed everything she stood for. In hindsight, she would realize that this ideal was ingrained in her mind due to the Emperor’s power, but as she fought alongside Luke, she eventually questioned her past loyalty to the Empire.

• From Allies to Romantic Partners: Their mutual respect and trust deepened as their story continued, especially in The Hand of Thrawn Duology. By the end of Vision of the Future, the second entry in the duology, they confessed their love and got married, with Mara officially adopting the moniker of Mara Jade Skywalker.

• Marriage and Family: Unlike Han and Leia, whose relationship was built on fiery chemistry amid war, Mara and Luke’s romance was based on understanding, partnership, and a shared commitment to the Jedi path.

How Does Their Relationship Compare to Other Star Wars Couples?

• Han and Leia – Han and Leia had a classic “opposites attract” romance, full of tension, banter, and frankly unbelievable chemistry courtesy of Carrie Fisher and Harrison Ford. Mara and Luke, in contrast, grew together over time, forming a deep bond built on shared experiences that lasted over hundreds of pages of novels as opposed to a few movies worth of screen time.

• Anakin and Padmé – Although it can be argued that this relationship formed the entire foundation for the saga, Anakin and Padmé’s relationship did begin with Anakin’s obsessive love for Padmé which eventually ended in tragedy. On the other hand, Luke and Mara’s relationship was healthy and balanced, showcasing a mature Jedi partnership. Once she stopped trying to kill him, that is.

The Biggest Myths About Mara Jade (And the Truth Behind Them)

Because of her complex backstory, the fan community often misunderstands Mara Jade despite their best intentions. Let’s clear up some of the biggest myths about her.

Was Mara Jade a Sith Lord Like Palpatine?

No. While she was trained in dark-side techniques, she was never a Sith. As one of the Emperor’s Hands, she was an elite covert operative, not a Sith apprentice. Unlike Darth Vader, Mara was trained for stealth, infiltration, and assassination, not conquest and pure dark power.

Fantasy Flight Games

Was She More Powerful Than Luke?

No, but she was one of the most capable fighters in Legends. While Luke had greater raw Force power, Mara was a better strategist, hand-to-hand combatant, and covert operative.

Did She Exist Only as Luke’s Love Interest?

Absolutely not. Mara Jade was a fully developed character before her romance with Luke. She had her own storylines, struggles, and growth moments long before they became a couple. Her marriage to Luke and adoption of the name Mara Jade Skywalker enhanced her character, but it never defined her.

Is Mara Jade Canon? Legends vs. Current Star Wars Continuity

One of the biggest questions about Mara Jade is simply: Is she Canon?

As we’ve already explained, the short answer is no—at least, not yet. Mara Jade remains part of Star Wars Legends, the expanded universe of books, comics, and games that existed before Lucasfilm reset continuity in 2014.

However, her popularity has never faded, and speculation about her return continues. To understand her current status and why fans so ardently wish for her return, let’s break down her role in Legends and why she hasn’t yet made it into the official Star Wars Canon.

Mara Jade’s Story in Legends

Mara Jade played a significant role in the Star Wars Legends Universe, appearing in multiple book series and comics that expanded the timeline after Return of the Jedi. Here’s a look at her key appearances and character development in Legends:

Penguin Random House

Key Storylines and Appearances

1. The Thrawn Trilogy (1991–1993) – Mara Jade debuts in Heir to the Empire, introduced as the Emperor’s Hand, a former Imperial assassin with a deep hatred for Luke Skywalker. Throughout Dark Force Rising and The Last Command, she overcomes her Imperial past and ultimately helps defeat Grand Admiral Thrawn.

2. The Hand of Thrawn Duology (1997–1998) – In Specter of the Past and Vision of the Future, Mara works alongside Luke Skywalker to uncover a conspiracy against the New Republic. Their bond deepens, and by the end of the series, they acknowledge the depth of their relationship and get married.

3. The New Jedi Order Series (1999–2003) – As a Jedi Master and Luke’s wife, Mara Jade Skywalker’s significant role within the Jedi Order is highlighted as she fights against the Yuuzhan Vong. These extragalactic species threaten to destroy the galaxy. During this time, she also gives birth to Ben Skywalker, named after Luke’s first master, Obi-Wan Kenobi.

4. Legacy of the Force (2006–2008) – In one of Legends’ most shocking moments, Mara is killed by Jacen Solo (Darth Caedus), who has fallen to the dark side. Her death fuels Luke Skywalker’s quest to stop Jacen from fully embracing his Sith destiny and fundamentally changes the trajectory of the Skywalker story forever.

Why Isn’t Mara Jade in Canon?

Lucasfilm’s Decision to Reset Star Wars Continuity

When Disney acquired Lucasfilm in 2012, the company reset the Expanded Universe to create a unified Canon for new movies, TV shows, and books. In 2014, Lucasfilm rebranded the old Expanded Universe stories as Star Wars Legends, meaning that characters like Mara Jade, Jacen Solo, and Ben Skywalker were no longer part of the official timeline.

This allowed Lucasfilm to craft a new, streamlined post-Return of the Jedi storyline, which became the foundation for The Force Awakens and its sequels, as well as books and comics published after 2014. As a result, Mara Jade was erased from continuity, and Luke Skywalker’s story took a very different path in the Disney era.

Timothy Zahn’s Statements on Mara Jade’s Return

Penguin Random House

Despite the Canon reset, Mara Jade’s creator, Timothy Zahn, has expressed interest in bringing her back—but only under the right circumstances. In interviews, Zahn has stated that:

• He has pitched ideas for a new version of Mara Jade in Canon.

• Lucasfilm has not yet approved a way to reintroduce her that fits within the current timeline.

• If she were to return, she might not have the same backstory or relationship with Luke.

The Challenges of Reintroducing Mara Jade

One of the biggest challenges in bringing Mara Jade into Star Wars Canon is that Luke Skywalker’s story in the Disney timeline vastly differs from Legends.

In Legends, Luke successfully rebuilds the Jedi Order and starts a family. In contrast, Canon shows him attempting to restore the Jedi, even establishing his own temple, but his efforts are shattered when he senses darkness in his nephew, Ben Solo.

After losing everything, Luke isolates himself in exile, with no known wife or children. This makes it difficult to reintroduce Mara Jade without altering his established storyline.

To reintroduce Mara Jade, Lucasfilm would need to:

• Give her a new backstory that fits within the established timeline.

• Separate her from Luke Skywalker’s legacy since his character arc no longer aligns with her original story.

• Find a natural way to integrate her into current or future projects, like The Mandalorian or Ahsoka.

Could Mara Jade Still Return to Star Wars Canon?

Although she isn’t part of Canon right now, Mara Jade’s ongoing popularity makes her a strong candidate for reintroduction.

With characters like Thrawn returning in Ahsoka, some fans believe Mara could follow—perhaps in a reimagined role that preserves her spirit while fitting into the evolving Star Wars universe.

Lucasfilm

Going this particular route would be risky for Lucasfilm regarding Mara’s legacy because so much fan devotion relies on the benchmarks of her old stories. Depending on how much the character has to be changed to fit into continuity, the role may be better attributed to a brand new smuggler, pirate, or even dark Jedi who could be used for similar storytelling purposes.

For now, Mara Jade remains one of the most beloved Legends characters. As Star Wars continues to expand, her return will always be a topic of conversation among the fandom.

Mara Jade’s Full Timeline: A Comparison of Canon & Legends

Mara Jade’s story unfolds entirely in Star Wars Legends, which means it is no longer part of the official Canon following Lucasfilm’s 2014 continuity reset.

However, her journey still aligns with key events in Star Wars history. By comparing her timeline to major films and shows like The Mandalorian, Ahsoka, and Return of the Jedi, fans can better understand where she fits into the broader timeline of the galaxy.

Mara Jade’s Timeline in Legends

17 BBY – Born Under the Empire (After Revenge of the Sith)

• Raised as one of Palpatine’s secret agents, known as the Emperor’s Hand.

• Trained in combat, espionage, and Force sensitivity, working directly for the Emperor.

4 ABY – The Emperor’s Death & Her Mission to Kill Luke Skywalker (Return of the Jedi)

• While on assignment, Mara telepathically receives Palpatine’s dying command: “You will kill Luke Skywalker.”

• She vows revenge and begins hunting Luke, believing him responsible for the Emperor’s downfall.

6–9 ABY – A Smuggler’s Life (Around The Mandalorian in Canon continuity)

• With the Empire shattered, Mara loses her purpose and becomes a smuggler, working under Talon Karrde.

• She encounters Luke Skywalker but begins questioning her hatred toward him.

9 ABY – Confronting Luke & The Thrawn Crisis (Heir to the Empire)

• Forced to work with Luke to stop Grand Admiral Thrawn, leading to an uneasy alliance.

• Eventually rejects her Imperial past, breaking free from Palpatine’s final influence.

19 ABY – Marriage to Luke Skywalker & Becoming a Jedi

• Mara and Luke fall in love and marry, marking one of the most significant relationships in Star Wars Legends.

• Trains as a Jedi and becomes a powerful Jedi Master in the New Jedi Order.

26 ABY – The Birth of Ben Skywalker

• Luke and Mara welcome their son, Ben Skywalker, named after Obi-Wan Kenobi.

• Balances her life as a mother, Jedi, and warrior as new galactic threats emerge.

40 ABY – Death at the Hands of Jacen Solo (Legacy of the Force)

• Luke’s nephew, Jacen Solo (Darth Caedus), falls to the dark side.

• Mara, believing Jacen to be a danger to the Jedi, confronts him—but is killed in battle.

• Her death becomes a turning point in Luke’s fight against the Sith.

Mara Jade’s Combat Abilities & Weapons

Mara Jade was a highly trained warrior, assassin, and intelligence operative before wielding a lightsaber like a Jedi Knight.

Mara Jade’s Combat Skills: More Than Just a Jedi

Before becoming a Jedi, Mara Jade was trained by Emperor Palpatine himself. As the Emperor’s Hand, she mastered stealth, assassination, and close-quarters combat, setting her apart from traditional Jedi before she ever picked up a saber.

How Emperor Palpatine’s Training Gave Her an Edge

• Unlike Sith apprentices like Darth Vader, Mara was trained to be a silent and efficient killer, relying on speed and precision rather than brute strength.

• She had limited but practical Force training, specializing in precognition, enhanced reflexes, and mind tricks to complete her missions.

• Her experience as an Imperial assassin infiltrating high-security Imperial and Rebel facilities made her an expert in espionage and deception.

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How She Compared to Other Skilled Force-Users

• Ahsoka Tano: Both were independent fighters, but while Ahsoka trained as a Jedi under her master, Anakin Skywalker, before leaving the Order, Mara had to learn Jedi techniques later in life from Luke after years of Imperial conditioning.

• Leia Organa: Leia was strong in the Force, but her combat training focused on blasters and leadership, while Mara was a deadly one-on-one fighter with lightsabers and melee weapons. While few could match the wits and resourcefulness of her sister-in-law, Mara’s skills with weapons and the Force come out on top.

• Jaina Solo: As a starfighter pilot and Jedi, Jaina Solo rivaled Mara in combat ability as the Sword of the Jedi. Still, Mara’s stealth and assassin training made her more dangerous in covert operations.

Jobaly on DeviantArt

Why She Was One of the Most Dangerous Non-Sith Force Users

Despite her extensive training under Palpatine, Mara Jade didn’t need the dark side’s power to be deadly. She combined:

• The agility and reflexes of a Jedi with the ruthlessness of an assassin.

• Mastery of various weapons, excelling in both ranged and melee combat.

• Her experience against Sith, Imperial remnants, and galactic criminals proves her adaptability in battle.

Even after becoming a Jedi, she retained her Imperial combat instincts, making her an unpredictable and highly effective warrior whose exploits were praised extensively throughout Legends.

Weapons of Mara Jade: A Breakdown

Mara Jade wielded an impressive arsenal throughout her life, adapting her weapons to fit her missions as an assassin, smuggler, and Jedi Knight.

Adegan’s Armory | Hades Industries | LucasArts)

Mara Jade’s Lightsabers

• Purple Lightsaber – Her original lightsaber reflects her independence from Jedi and Sith traditions.

• Anakin Skywalker’s Blue Lightsaber – Luke gifted her Anakin’s lightsaber after her purple saber was destroyed, symbolizing her transition into the New Jedi Order.

Blasters & Stealth Combat: Deadly Without the Force

• Even without a lightsaber, Mara was lethal with blasters. She often carried:

  • A modified blaster pistol, perfect for silent takedowns.

  • A holdout blaster, hidden in case of capture or disarmament.

• Unlike most Jedi, Mara relied on stealth over direct combat, often using disguises and deception.

Hand-to-Hand Combat & Espionage: Training Beyond the Jedi Order

• She was trained in Imperial Royal Guard-level melee combat and was skilled in unarmed takedowns.

• Could hold her own against trained bounty hunters, pirates, smugglers, and Force-users.

• Mastered infiltration techniques, allowing her to defeat enemies before they even knew she was there, whether she was sneaking into Jabba’s palace or a forbidden temple.

Mara Jade Speculation, Fan Theories & What If?

Mara Jade’s absence from Star Wars Canon hasn’t stopped fans from imagining ways she could return. With characters like Grand Admiral Thrawn making their way into live-action, many wonder if Mara could follow.

Could Mara Jade Still Return to Canon?

Star Wars explores the era where Mara Jade once thrived in Legends with The Mandalorian, Ahsoka, and Dave Filoni’s upcoming Heir to the Empire-inspired movie. This has sparked endless speculation about her potential return.

The Filoni-Verse and Heir to the Empire

Lucasfilm

• Dave Filoni draws inspiration from Legends, especially Zahn’s original Thrawn Trilogy.

• If Thrawn has returned as a major villain, bringing back other key characters from that era, like Mara Jade, makes sense.

• Her role would likely be reworked, but her backstory as a former Imperial agent could still fit into the New Republic timeline even if they avoided larger galactic events like the Yuuzhan Vong war.

The Ben Solo Theory: Could She Have Shaped Luke’s Grief?

• Some fan theories suggest Mara may have existed in Canon off-screen, only to be killed by Ben Solo before The Force Awakens.

• This could add depth to Luke’s guilt, explaining why he feared training new Jedi after Ben’s fall.

• However, this would mean Mara’s story ended before audiences could ever meet her—a decision that might frustrate longtime fans and ultimately feel like a disservice to such a powerful character full of legacy and rich storytelling.

Lucasfilm

If Thrawn Can Return, Why Not Mara Jade Skywalker?

• Thrawn was one of the most iconic characters from Legends, just like Mara.

• His successful transition into Ahsoka proves that Lucasfilm is willing to rework Legends characters for Canon if the surrounding storyline can support them.

• If there’s a way to bring Mara back without contradicting Luke’s story, fans believe it’s only a matter of time before the Emperor’s hand finds her way back to the galactic narrative.

How Could Mara Jade Fit into Modern Star Wars Canon?

If Lucasfilm were to bring Mara Jade into Canon, she wouldn’t necessarily have to follow her Legends storyline strictly. Instead, she could be reimagined to fit within the established continuity.

A Former Inquisitor Who Defected

Daniel de Almeida

• Instead of being the Emperor’s Hand, Mara could have been an Imperial Inquisitor who left the Empire after Palpatine’s fall.

• She could be hunted by Imperial remnants, forcing her into hiding—until she crosses paths with Luke, Ahsoka, or another Force-sensitive character.

• Inquisitor storylines have become increasingly popular over the past few years as these dark Jedi type characters have come to the forefront like Reva from Obi-Wan Kenobi or Trilla from Jedi: Fallen Order.

A Secret Jedi Survivor of Order 66

• The Mandalorian has already introduced hidden Jedi survivors like Grogu and Kelleran Beq, and other Jedi have appeared in various comics and video games, such as the Jedi trilogy.

• Mara could have been a young Jedi Padawan who was captured and trained by the Empire after the slaughter of her Jedi Master.

• Her story could explore the moral conflict of being raised under Imperial influence while still being strong in the Force.

• This storyline could potentially bring in elements of her training as an imperial assassin without fully making her the Emperor’s hand.

Snoke’s Sith Apprentice Before Kylo Ren

• If Lucasfilm really wanted to make Mara Jade a dark-side character, she could be rewritten as one of Snoke’s early apprentices.

• Perhaps she discovered Palpatine’s hidden experiments on Exegol and was killed for knowing too much.

• This version of Mara Jade from Legends would not be the same, but it would retain her mysterious and powerful presence.

• Various comic series have attempted to flesh out the backstory of Palpatine and Snoke in the years before The Rise of Skywalker, and bringing in someone as important as Mara Jade could further these plot lines even more.

Would Mara Jade Work in The Mandalorian or Ahsoka?

The post-Return of the Jedi era explored in The Mandalorian and Ahsoka is the perfect time to introduce Mara Jade.

LucasArts

Alt Text: Fan-made concept art depicting a mysterious figure wielding a purple lightsaber, facing off against Din Djarin (The Mandalorian) in a dimly lit Imperial-style starship interior. The image hints at a potential reimagining of Mara Jade in The Mandalorian or Ahsoka era.

Why She Fits Into the Filoni-Verse

Ahsoka is leading toward a conflict with Thrawn, mirroring Heir to the Empire. If Mara was once part of Thrawn’s Imperial network, she could resurface as either an ally or an enemy of the New Republic. Her skills as a Jedi, mercenary, and Imperial operative make her an adaptable character for live-action storytelling, even if she isn’t fighting directly alongside Luke or her future sister-in-law.

Possible Casting Choices & Fan Reaction

Fans have long debated who could play Mara Jade if she appeared in live-action. Her first appearance solidified her look with striking red hair, which has inspired some fan-favorite choices that include:

• Emily Blunt (A Quiet Place, Edge of Tomorrow)

• Jessica Chastain (Interstellar, The 355)

• Bryce Dallas Howard (Jurassic World and a Star Wars director herself)

Will We Ever See Mara Jade Again?

Although she hasn’t appeared in new stories for over a decade, Mara Jade remains one of the most beloved characters in Star Wars history. Here at Youtini, we always say that Legends is just as crucial to the history of Star Wars as Canon, and nobody shows how true that is more than Mara Jade Skywalker.

However, that doesn’t mean we don’t want to see her again. Whether she returns in The Mandalorian era, a new movie, or a completely fresh storyline, one thing is clear: fans aren’t ready to let her go.

With Legends elements like Thrawn, the Chiss Ascendancy, and the New Republic coming back, the possibility of Mara’s return feels closer than ever. The real question is:

If Lucasfilm brings her back… will she be the same Mara Jade we remember? And if she’s not…will the fans accept her nonetheless?

Mara Jade’s Legacy: Influence on Star Wars & Pop Culture

Why Fans Love Mara Jade

Miss_Plague / Alina Vorontsova

Mara Jade proudly defied the overly stereotypical fantasy tropes that occasionally dominated early Star Wars storytelling. From her first appearance, she was a powerful, deeply layered female character who experienced significant personal growth over time.

She was introduced as an enemy of Luke Skywalker, a former Imperial assassin who deeply hated Emperor Palpatine, the man who had destroyed her master. Yet, over time, she challenged her beliefs, overcame her past, and found her own path as a Jedi.

Her character arc—filled with conflict, love, and eventual tragedy—resonated with readers because it felt earned, and we got to experience every single twist and turn.

Unlike some characters who were clearly established as either good or evil from the beginning, Mara existed in a gray area, making her journey toward the light more compelling. Her transformation from an Imperial operative to a Jedi Master, a wife, and a mother gave her depth that few female characters had at the time.

Given how much Star Wars storytelling has evolved since this era, it’s almost hard to believe how rare these types of characters were back then. But thanks to characters like Mara, the genre was able to break out of reductive stereotypes and create some of the best characters and story arcs that science fiction has ever seen.

Mara Jade’s Influence on Female Characters in Star Wars

Mara Jade helped pave the way for more complex female leads in Star Wars, setting a precedent that allowed later characters to flourish in the modern era.

Lucasfilm | Lepparda on DeviantArt | Youtini Illustration

Unlike Princess Leia, who was always a hero, or Padmé Amidala, who was largely defined by her role in Anakin Skywalker’s story, Mara could exist outside traditional archetypes. She wasn’t just a love interest or a sidekick—she was a character with her own agency, skills, and personal struggles.

Modern Star Wars heroes like Rey, Ahsoka Tano, and Hera Syndulla share some of Mara’s defining qualities, but they also highlight how storytelling has evolved.

• Rey, like Mara, has an outsider-to-Jedi arc, though she doesn’t inherit the same morally complex background of an Imperial assassin that made Mara’s redemption so compelling.

• Conversely, Ahsoka shares Mara’s independence and ability to thrive outside the Jedi Order.

• Hera Syndulla, as a leader and strategist, reflects some of Mara’s commanding presence and no-nonsense attitude while also being able to embrace the role of the leader of a family when it comes to the Ghost Crew in Rebels

Does Mara Jade Skywalker Suffer from the Women in Refrigerators Trope?

Some fans have debated whether Mara Jade falls into the “Women in Refrigerators” trope. This trope describes female characters who are killed off primarily to serve a male protagonist’s story.

While Mara’s death in Legacy of the Force was a pivotal moment for Luke and Ben Skywalker’s arcs, she was far from a disposable character. Her legacy was deeply ingrained in Legends, and her influence extended beyond just being Luke’s wife.

However, many believe that her death was unnecessary and that Star Wars could have handled her final chapter more meaningfully.

Mara Jade’s impact on Star Wars is undeniable regardless of where her story ended. She was a trailblazer for female characters in the franchise, and her continued popularity proves that great characters never truly fade away.

Mara Jade in Star Wars Merchandise & Collectibles

Despite her Legends status, Mara Jade remains one of the most sought-after characters in Star Wars collectibles. Her popularity has kept demand high for action figures, statues, and memorabilia, many of which have become rare and expensive on the secondary market.

ARTFX | Hasbro | Gentle Giant | Dark Horse

Action Figures

Hasbro’s The Black Series Mara Jade 6-Inch Action Figure

This highly detailed figure features Mara Jade’s signature purple lightsaber and an articulated design, making it a standout piece in Hasbro’s Black Series lineup. It is still available through retailers like Amazon but often sells out quickly.

Star Wars Comic Packs #10: Luke Skywalker and Mara Jade

This collectible set includes action figures of Mara Jade and Luke Skywalker and a reprint of Heir to the Empire #5. Though no longer in production, it remains a favorite among collectors and is frequently found on eBay.

Statues and High-End Collectibles

Gentle Giant’s Mara Jade Mini Bust

This 1:6 scale bust, released as a convention exclusive in 2006, showcases Mara Jade wielding her lightsaber. Only 2,000 pieces were made, making it one of the rarer collectibles available.

Star Wars Mara Jade ARTFX Bishoujo Statue

Designed by Shunya Yamashita as part of Kotobukiya’s Bishoujo line, this 9-inch, highly detailed statue features interchangeable lightsabers (purple and blue) and a removable cape. Originally released in 2014, it is now a highly valuable collector’s item, primarily found on eBay.

Video Game Appearances

Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes

Electronic Arts

Mara Jade appears as a playable character in this highly addictive and wildly successful mobile strategy game. She can be unlocked through in-game events and remains a fan-favorite unit due to her unique abilities and her appearance as a Legends icon.

Even without a live-action debut, Mara Jade’s continued appearances in Star Wars collectibles prove her enduring popularity among fans and collectors alike.

Where to Read and Experience Mara Jade’s Story

Books Featuring Mara Jade

Mara Jade’s most significant character development occurs in the Star Wars Legends novels, particularly those written by Timothy Zahn, her original creator.

Lucasfilm Ltd.

• The Thrawn Trilogy (Heir to the Empire, Dark Force Rising, The Last Command) – Mara’s first appearance, where she starts as the famed Imperial assassin, the Emperor’s hand, and an enemy of Luke Skywalker before later questioning her loyalty to the Empire.

Michael Komarck | Lucasfilm Ltd.

• Survivor’s Quest – A post-marriage adventure where Mara and Luke uncover mysteries linked to the lost Outbound Flight project.

• The Hand of Thrawn Duology (Specter of the Past, Vision of the Future) – This series cements Mara’s place as one of the best characters in the history of Star Wars Legends, showcasing her romance with Luke, their eventual marriage, and her new title of Mara Jade Skywalker.

• The New Jedi Order Series – As a Jedi Master, Mara plays a critical role in training young Jedi while battling a life-threatening illness. This series also reveals additional interplay between her and younger members of the Skywalker family, like Jaina Solo, as they battle behind enemy lines amidst the Yuuzhan Vong war.

• Legacy of the Force Series – This series marks the tragic conclusion of the story of Mara Jade as she faces the growing darkness within the Skywalker-Solo family.

Comics Featuring Mara Jade

For visual storytelling fans, several comics expand on Mara Jade’s life, especially her time as the Emperor’s hand.

Dark Horse Comics

• Mara Jade: By the Emperor’s Hand (Issues 1-6) – A comic book retelling of Mara’s early days, including missions she undertook for Palpatine as an Imperial assassin.

• Union (Issues 1-4) – A rare Star Wars romance comic that tells the story of Mara and Luke’s wedding.

• Star Wars Tales (Issues #1, #10, #16, #21, and #24) – An anthology series that includes several standalone Mara Jade stories:

  • “Mara Jade: A Night on the Town” (Issue #1, 1999) – Mara takes on a mission as the Emperor’s Hand, battling criminals and proving why she is one of Palpatine’s most dangerous agents.

  • “A Jedi’s Weapon” (Issue #24, 2005) – A short but action-packed story showcasing Mara as a fully trained Jedi, reinforcing her growth beyond her Imperial past.

  • “Extinction” (Issues #10-12, 2002) – A What If?-style story that imagines Mara Jade facing off against Darth Vader before A New Hope. Unlike most of her appearances in Legends, this story was never part of the official Legends timeline—it was published in Star Wars Tales, an anthology series known for purely hypothetical stories. While Legends itself is no longer part of Disney’s official continuity, Extinction was never considered part of the Legends timeline even before the Canon reset, making it an alternate-universe take on Mara Jade’s history.

Video Games Featuring Mara Jade

While Mara Jade never appeared in Star Wars films, she was featured in several classic video games that allowed players to experience her abilities firsthand.

LucasArts

• Star Wars: Jedi Knight – Mysteries of the Sith (1998, PC) – A direct sequel to Jedi Knight: Dark Forces II, where players control Mara Jade as she trains under Kyle Katarn.

• Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes (Mobile, iOS & Android) – Mara Jade is a playable character in this turn-based RPG, often paired with Emperor Palpatine in battle as a nod to her role as the Emperor’s hand.

• Star Wars: Masters of Teräs Käsi (1997, PlayStation) – A non-Canon Star Wars fighting game featuring Mara Jade as a combatant with Force abilities that can tap into her experience as an Imperial assassin.

• Star Wars: Empire at War – Forces of Corruption (2006, PC) – Mara appears as a special hero unit in this strategy game, though not in the main storyline.

Short Stories and Reference Books

These short stories and guides provide additional insight into Mara’s story and provide further depth into her character.

• Tales from Jabba’s Palace – “Sleight of Hand” – A short story that reveals Mara’s undercover role inside Jabba the Hutt’s palace during Return of the Jedi.

• Tales from the New Republic – “Jade Solitaire” – A self-contained adventure following Mara Jade on a personal mission to obtain her personal starship, The Jade’s Fire

• The Essential Chronology & The New Essential Guide to Characters – Reference books that provide background details on Mara’s timeline and character evolution.

Where Should You Start?

For new readers, the best introductions to Mara Jade’s story are:

• Heir to the Empire – Her first appearance sets up her role as an Imperial assassin and the beginning of her journey.

• Mara Jade: By the Emperor’s Hand – A solo adventure that focuses on her Imperial past and role as the Emperor’s Hand.

• The Hand of Thrawn Duology – Essential reading for those wanting to explore her romance with Luke Skywalker and her final transition into the Jedi Order on her way to becoming a Jedi Master.

FAQs About Mara Jade

Who created Mara Jade?

Timothy Zahn introduced her in Heir to the Empire in 1991.

Is Mara Jade part of Star Wars Canon?

No, Mara Jade exists only in Legends, but fans continue to speculate about her return.

Did Luke Skywalker marry Mara Jade?

Yes, in Legends, she and Luke married and had a son, Ben Skywalker, who was named after Luke’s master, Obi-Wan Kenobi.

How did Mara Jade die?

She was killed by Jacen Solo (Darth Caedus) after discovering his Sith identity in the Legacy of the Force series.

Could Mara Jade return to Star Wars Canon?

It’s possible, especially with Ahsoka bringing back Heir to the Empire elements like Thrawn. However, given Luke’s storyline in the Sequel Trilogy, changes to Mara’s story would be necessary to bring the character into modern continuity.

Was Mara Jade a Jedi?

Yes, she became a Jedi Master and trained apprentices like Jaina Solo.

What color was Mara Jade’s lightsaber?

She originally wielded a purple lightsaber before switching to Anakin Skywalker’s blue saber which was gifted to her by Luke.

Where can I read Mara Jade’s best stories?

Start with The Thrawn Trilogy, Hand of Thrawn Duology, Survivor’s Quest, and the Legacy of the Force series.

Was Mara Jade in any Star Wars video games?

Yes, she appears in Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes, Jedi Knight: Mysteries of the Sith, and Masters of Teräs Käsi.

Why did George Lucas dislike Mara Jade?

Lucas preferred Luke to remain a lone Jedi, which influenced her absence from Canon.

Conclusion

Mara Jade remains one of the most iconic and beloved characters in Star Wars Legends.

Her journey from Imperial assassin to Jedi Master captivated readers, and her dynamic with Luke Skywalker helped shape the Expanded Universe. Even though she is no longer part of the official Star Wars Canon, her legacy continues to influence the franchise, inspiring modern characters and ongoing fan discussions.

The debate over Mara Jade’s return to Star Wars will remain a hot topic until the day we see the Emperor’s hand appear onscreen. With Thrawn’s reintroduction in Ahsoka and Lucasfilm’s growing interest in Legends material, there is always hope that Mara could be reimagined for the current timeline, but with each year, the possibility wanes a bit more.

But whether she returns as a Jedi, a former Imperial agent, or in an entirely new role, fans continue to speculate on how she might fit into future stories and hope to welcome Mara Jade Skywalker back into the fold.

wraithdt on DeviantArt

But until then, for those who want to dive deeper into her story, check out Youtini’s Mara Jade reading guide, where you can find the best books and comics that explore her full character arc in Legends.