Who Is Cal Kestis? Exploring the Tragic Hero of the Star Wars Jedi Series

Introduction

Video game icon Cal Kestis has become a standout main character in the Star Wars universe, captivating fans as the protagonist of the critically acclaimed Star Wars Jedi series.

Introduced in Jedi: Fallen Order and returning in Jedi: Survivor, Cal’s journey from Jedi Master Jaro Tapal’s Padawan who survived Order 66 to a powerful yet deeply flawed Jedi has resonated with players around the globe.

Respawn Entertainment/Lucasfilm

With the announcement of a third installment in the series, excitement is building as fans speculate about how Cal’s story will continue to unfold in the galaxy far, far away.

As someone who has played both games, I was struck by the depth of Cal’s character and the immersive storytelling throughout both entries. Jedi: Fallen Order introduced a gripping narrative of survival and hope, while Jedi: Survivor presented a deeper examination into the complexities of Cal’s journey, weaving in unexpected connections to the High Republic era.

Respawn Entertainment/Lucasfilm

As a massive Star Wars book fan, seeing nods to this rich period of lore brought an added layer of excitement that I couldn’t have dreamed to imagine, and seeing Cal Kestis discover the era in real time made the experience even more meaningful.

The Star Wars Jedi series has received widespread acclaim, with both games earning praise from video game critics and fans alike for gameplay that combines everything from expert lightsaber combat to challenging platforming and some of the most emotional storytelling seen in recent Star Wars. Jedi: Fallen Order even surpassed 20 million players globally, and Jedi: Survivor has been lauded for its ambitious expansion of the story its prequel introduced, despite some technical hiccups.

In this guide, we’ll explore Cal Kestis’ story, his place in Star Wars Canon, some of the merch fans can pick up inspired by the Star Wars Jedi series, and what might be next for this unforgettable Jedi.

Cal Kestis’ Role in Star Wars Canon

Is Cal Kestis Canon?

Yes, Cal Kestis is Canon in the Star Wars universe. According to the official announcement on StarWars.com, Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order is firmly rooted in Canon, bridging the gap between the prequel and original trilogies.

In the games, Cal’s journey fits seamlessly into the broader Star Wars timeline. During the Clone Wars, Cal Kestis was trained as a Jedi Padawan by Jedi Master Jaro Tapal and grew as a member of the Jedi Order.

Respawn Entertainment/Lucasfilm

His story in the first video game begins shortly after the devastating events of Revenge of the Sith, showcasing the harrowing aftermath of Order 66. This time period is explored elsewhere in shows like The Bad Batch, but the ability to actively play through Cal’s experience after the Clone Wars makes his story especially impactful.

While the landmark Star Wars movies and live action shows primarily focus on classic figures like Luke Skywalker or Obi-Wan Kenobi, Cal’s narrative provides a unique perspective on the struggles of a Jedi who survived the initial purge that eliminated most of the Jedi Order.

Cal’s presence is a refreshing addition to the Star Wars universe, and his interactions with iconic elements—like constructing his lightsaber or encountering Inquisitors and fallen Jedi—connect him to the larger narrative of Star Wars history.

Where Is Cal During Major Star Wars Events?

One of the most intriguing questions fans have is: where is Cal Kestis during pivotal moments in Star Wars history, such as A New Hope or The Mandalorian? While the games do not yet reveal his ultimate fate, speculation has run wild.

Given that Jedi: Survivor is set roughly a decade before A New Hope, Cal can currently be assumed to be very much alive during the events of the Star Wars Original Trilogy. However, his specific whereabouts remain unknown as fans wait for the third game in the Star Wars Jedi series which may provide those answers.

Some current theories suggest that if Cal Kestis did survive the events of his Jedi trilogy, he may have chosen to lay low, avoiding further conflict after his harrowing encounters with the Empire. Others speculate that he could have secretly aided the Rebel Alliance, possibly as part of a hidden Jedi network like the Hidden Path, which was introduced in the Obi-Wan Kenobi tv series.

Respawn Entertainment/Lucasfilm

As for The Mandalorian, which occurs several years after the fall of the Empire, Cal’s age and abilities could make him a potential ally for characters like Ahsoka or Din Djarin - especially if his continued training elevated him to the skill level of a Jedi Master. His inclusion in the events of the series could provide a powerful connection between the games and the live-action shows, but until confirmed by either the video games or tv projects, these ideas remain purely speculative.

Did Luke Skywalker ever meet Cal Kestis?

While no official material confirms this encounter, it’s tantalizing to consider how their paths might have crossed, given their shared experiences and struggles as Jedi in hiding. Luke Skywalker famously searched out Jedi artifacts throughout his life after the discovery of his own abilities, and the idea of meeting Jedi Master Cal Kestis is certainly a future that many fans would love to see.

Speculative Note: While theories about Cal’s potential involvement in major events are fascinating, they are not confirmed Canon. Until more stories are told, his ultimate fate remains a mystery.

Are the Star Wars Jedi Games Canon?

Yes, the Star Wars Jedi games in their entirety are Canon, as officially confirmed by Lucasfilm. This means that Cal Kestis, his adventures, and the characters he interacts with from the Mantis crew to his foes at Fortress Inquisitorius are integral to the Star Wars timeline.

With the release of Jedi: Survivor, the series continues to expand its impact, adding new layers to established lore, such as connections to the High Republic. As fans eagerly await the next chapter in Cal’s story, the Jedi games have cemented themselves as essential pieces of Star Wars Canon storytelling.

The Origins of Cal Kestis in Universe

Early Life and Training under Jedi Master Jaro Tapal

Cal Kestis began his life as a Padawan under the guidance of Jedi Master Jaro Tapal during the waning days of the Galactic Republic. Trained by his master at the Jedi temple as well as aboard a Republic Venator-class Star Destroyer, Cal learned the ways of the Force while assisting his master in battles against the Separatists.

As a young student, Cal displayed potential but lacked the confidence of a seasoned Jedi. His bond with his master Jaro Tapal was one of deep trust and mentorship, forming the emotional core of his early Jedi journey.

The impact of Order 66 was devastating for Cal. In Jedi: Fallen Order, players relive the traumatic moment when the Clone Troopers, once loyal allies, turned against their Jedi commanders and began the process of establishing the Empire’s rule.

Respawn Entertainment/Lucasfilm

In the game sequence, players witness Jaro Tapal sacrifice himself to ensure Cal’s escape, instilling in him the values of survival and hope even in the darkest times while setting him on his quest to save the galaxy.

I can still remember the unbelievable emotional weight of these scenes in the game. Looking back now, it’s clear how pivotal Tapal’s mentorship was to Cal’s survival from the very beginning. The loss of his master is a wound that lingers throughout Cal’s journey, a constant reminder of the burden he carries as one of the last Jedi.

And I have to say, getting to see Order 66 play out on-screen yet again was just plain awesome. And some folks may say that I’m wrong, but I will never get tired of new perspectives of this crucial moment of the Star Wars timeline.

Life After Order 66

Following the destruction of the Jedi Order, Cal Kestis went into hiding on the scrapyard planet of Bracca. There, Cal worked as a scrapper, dismantling derelict ships for the Empire to avoid drawing attention to himself.

Despite his efforts to stay hidden, Cal’s use of the Force to save a coworker revealed his Jedi identity to the Empire, leading to an imperial raid that set the events of Jedi: Fallen Order in motion.

BD-1: Cal Kestis’ Droid Companion

One of the most heartwarming elements of Cal’s story is his bond with BD-1, the loyal exploration droid who becomes his constant companion even before the video game story begins.

BD-1 is not just a tool or sidekick; he’s a true partner, assisting Cal in battles, puzzle-solving, and exploration. Their relationship is built on trust and camaraderie, providing moments of levity and warmth amid the challenges they face.

Respawn Entertainment/Lucasfilm

Throughout my experience, I found BD-1’s unwavering support and cheerful personality to be a crucial part of the experience. Droid companions have long provided the emotional backbone for Star Wars stories, and BD-1 might do it better than most.

The Stinger Mantis Crew

The Stinger Mantis, the main starship for Cal, Cere Junda, and the rest of their crew, plays a crucial role in missions throughout Jedi: Fallen Order and Jedi: Survivor, facilitating their journey through various adventures and encounters with the Empire.

Respawn Entertainment/Lucasfilm

Cere Junda, a former Padawan of Jedi Master Eno Cordova, acts as Cal’s surrogate Master throughout their adventures on the Mantis, and it is through her guidance, wisdom, and stories about her own Padawan that he is able to complete his mission in the first game of the series.

Greez, the ship’s disgruntled pilot, not only provides the comic relief that Cal so desperately needs in his life, but he also acts as a steadfast reminder of the importance of being there for your friends. Despite his gruff exterior, Greez never abandons the crew of the Stinger Mantis and provides some much needed stability to Cal’s life after so many years of hardship.

The final member of the crew, Merrin, joins Cal and his compatriots during the events of Jedi: Fallen Order. A Nightsister of Dathomir, Merrin offers Cal a brand new perspective on the Force - even the powers of the Dark Side - and the two form an unbreakable bond that carries into Jedi: Survivor.

Fallen Jedi

Cal’s encounters with the fallen Jedi Taron Malicos, who succumbed to the Dark Side and attempted to manipulate others to do the same, further complicate his path throughout Jedi: Fallen Order. Facing the idea that some Jedi survived the Purge due to their abandonment of the Jedi Order presents an all new challenge in Cal’s life.

The Hunt for Tanalorr in Jedi: Survivor

After the events of Jedi: Fallen Order, Cal Kestis’ hunt for Tanalorr began when he stumbled upon an ancient Jedi chamber on a High Republic era planet. Inside, he discovered a droid named ZN-A4, which led him to the discovery of the planet Tanalorr. Believing that Tanalorr held the key to the survival of the Jedi Order, Cal embarked on a perilous mission to find the planet. He was joined by his former allies, including BD-1, Cere Junda, and Merrin, as they navigated through treacherous landscapes and battled against Imperial forces.

Respawn Entertainment/Lucasfilm

As they journeyed deeper into the unknown, Cal encountered various obstacles, including treacherous terrain, hostile creatures, and rival treasure hunters. Despite these challenges, he remained determined to find Tanalorr, driven by his desire to restore the Jedi Order and protect the Force-sensitive children that were discovered on a database at the conclusion of Jedi: Fallen Order.

Personality and Traits

Cal Kestis is a complex and multi-faceted character that rightly takes his place as one of the most interesting Jedi in the modern Star Wars Canon. As a former Padawan, he possesses a strong sense of justice and compassion which he learned directly from his Jedi Master Jaro Tapal, which drives him to protect the innocent and fight against the Empire. He is also deeply and openly emotional, haunted by the trauma of his past and struggling to come to terms with his loss.

This level of emotional vulnerability occasionally opens him up to the Dark Side which is always ready to consume him, but thanks to the relationships he builds throughout his life and the Star Wars Jedi series, he is able to resist more often than not.

Despite his emotional scars, Cal is a resilient and resourceful Jedi, able to think on his feet and adapt to new situations. He is also deeply loyal to his friends and is constantly willing to risk his own life to protect them. As he navigates the challenges of the galaxy under the Empire, Cal is forced to confront his own demons and learn to trust not only the friends by his side and the teachings of the Jedi, but also himself.

Relationships

Cal Kestis’ relationships with other characters are a crucial aspect of his personality and one of the coolest parts of the games. His bond with Cere Junda, a former Jedi Knight, is particularly significant, as she serves as his main mentor and guide. Together, they share a deep understanding and trust, which is forged through their shared experiences and struggles with the Jedi Order.

Respawn Entertainment/Lucasfilm

Cal’s relationship with Merrin, a Nightsister, is also one of his most important. Despite their initial differences during their meeting in Jedi: Fallen Order, they develop a strong connection which is carried on into Jedi: Survivor. Merrin’s presence in Cal’s life continuously helps to ground him in reality while also keeping him open to the beauty of the world as the darkness continues to encroach upon him.

The Evolution of Cal Kestis as a Character in Canon

From Padawan to Survivor

Over the course of Jedi: Fallen Order and Jedi: Survivor, Cal Kestis grows from a hesitant Padawan into a confident…well…Jedi survivor!

His mission is defined by his continual resilience in the face of overwhelming odds. However, his evolution is not without struggle. In the wake of Order 66, Cal is deeply affected by the loss of his master, his friends, and the life he once knew.

These experiences push him toward the edge as he grapples with anger, self-doubt, and a continual temptation by the Dark Side.

Respawn Entertainment/Lucasfilm

The Jedi: Survivor story, in particular, portrays Cal as more complex and conflicted. Fans of the series have often pointed out that his flirtation with the Dark Side makes him one of the most tragic and realistic Jedi characters in the Star Wars Canon as this trait allows him to be more in touch with his emotions than classic Jedi of earlier eras.

However, while some players embrace this darker arc as a natural progression of his trauma, others feel it detracts from the optimism typically associated with Jedi protagonists.

This divide in the Star Wars community is relatively unusual when it comes to playable characters, but it reflects how deeply invested players are in Cal’s story and choices throughout the Jedi trilogy.

What Lies Ahead?

With the announcement of a third game in the Star Wars Jedi series, speculation is rampant about Cal’s future. Will he finally find a place in the galaxy where he can thrive, or will he continue to be haunted by his past? Will he even survive the trilogy’s final installment?

Preliminary interviews with Cal Kestis actor Cameron Monaghan and Respawn developers vaguely suggest that the next game will even further explore Cal’s understanding of the Force and his relationship with all of his allies.

Respawn Entertainment/Lucasfilm

Fans of the character have their own speculation as well, of course, but there is one question that rises above all others.

Will Cal Kestis finally turn to the Dark Side?

While such a drastic decision is unlikely, the possibility of him succumbing to the Dark Side is an intriguing thread for future storytelling, and only time will tell if Cal finally falls.

How Does Cal Kestis Die?

The short is answer is: We do not yet know how Cal Kestis dies in the Star Wars timeline.

Some fans theorize that Cal may sacrifice himself to protect a new generation of Jedi at the end of the final Jedi video game, while others hope that he will find peace and live to see the galaxy rebuilt. We hope to receive this confirmation at the conclusion of the trilogy.

Cal Kestis vs Other Star Wars Characters

How Does He Compare?

When it comes to pure power, Cal Kestis earns the title of his second game as a true Jedi survivor who has developed his skills in isolation, unlike traditional Jedi who were trained in the temple from childhood all the way through their trials.

But one of the most fun parts of being a Star Wars fan is figuring out if all of these hardships can put Cal in the same hall of fame as characters like Obi-Wan, Darth Vader, and Luke. And despite the unlikely scenario where he’s going up against his allies, let’s see how he measures up against some of Star Wars’ most legendary figures!

Obi-Wan Kenobi

Compared to one of the best masters in the history of the Jedi Order, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Cal’s fighting style is far less refined. Obi-Wan was a master of Form III (Soresu), an incredibly defensive lightsaber style which we see throughout the Prequel Trilogy, while Cal’s combat in Jedi: Fallen Order and Jedi: Survivor shows a mix of different techniques, including Form V (Djem So) and even dual-wielding.

Unlike Kenobi, who excels in patience and precision, Cal often fights with raw survival instincts, reflecting his unorthodox training. Although a life spent fighting for survival can occasionally provide battle techniques that can surprise more rigidly trained opponents, Kenobi’s combination of intensive temple training and real-world battlefield fighting during The Clone Wars make him the far superior opponent.

Darth Vader

Now luckily for us (and unluckily for Cal), this particular fight actually happened! And the data is as definitive as it gets…against Darth Vader, Cal is massively outmatched.

In Jedi: Fallen Order, Cal’s brief duel with Vader shows that the Sith Lord barely sees him as a threat. Cal’s attacks are effortlessly blocked, and Kestis is only able to escape by creating a distraction. But Cal doesn’t have to feel bad about this - he’s in good company. This scenario echoes many Star Wars matchups where Jedi are forced to flee rather than face Vader directly.

So unfortunately, in the case of Can Cal Kestis beat Darth Vader?, the answer is a resounding no—at least, not without outside help.

Respawn Entertainment/Lucasfilm

Luke Skywalker

On the surface, Cal shares quite a few similarities with Luke Skywalker – especially early Luke from The Empire Strikes Back. Both trained under a single master (Jedi Master Jaro Tapal for Cal, Post-Jedi Order Yoda for Luke), both struggled with intense self-doubt, and both had to forge their own paths outside the Jedi Order. However, Luke ultimately grew into one of the most powerful Jedi of all time, while Cal—at least so far—remains a skilled but grounded warrior, more comparable to Legends characters like Starkiller from The Force Unleashed.

Now actually, Cal Kestis vs. Starkiller would be an interesting fight, but given Starkiller’s immense power in the Legends timeline and his…relative lack of lines he won’t cross, Cal would likely be at a serious disadvantage.

Ultimately, all of these comparisons are subjective and open to interpretation whether you’re on the internet or around the lunch table. What we know for certain is that Cal’s story is still unfolding, and while he may not be on the level of Luke or Obi-Wan, his power is pretty undeniable, and his journey thus far surely makes him a compelling if not relatable hero.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Cal Kestis has proven himself to be a highly capable Jedi throughout his appearances in Canon thus far, but like all warriors, he has his strengths and weaknesses.

Strengths:

Combat Adaptability: Unlike many Jedi, Cal isn’t tied to a single lightsaber form (thanks to the gameplay developers allowing players to have a bit more fun than usual). He can switch between a single blade, dual-wielding, and a double-bladed saber, making him unpredictable in battle.

Respawn Entertainment/Lucasfilm

Connection to the Force: Cal possesses psychometry, the rare ability to relive memories by touching objects. This skill is seen elsewhere in Jedi like Quinlan Vos and plays a key role in Cal’s survival.

Respawn Entertainment/Lucasfilm

Survivor’s Instincts: Having endured the trauma of Order 66, Cal has been forced to become extra resilient and resourceful. He has learned to fight using unconventional methods, often outsmarting stronger enemies, and employing stealth when needed in order to avoid the Empire’s prying eyes.

Weaknesses:

Raw Power: Compared to other Force users, Cal isn’t exceptionally powerful. Sure, he shows off quite a bit of skill throughout the Jedi trilogy, but thanks to his unconventional training, he never quite attains the pure power in the Force that other, more traditional, Jedi have experienced. That being said, his mastery of the Force is still developing and may eclipse those other Jedi by the end of the third game.

Respawn Entertainment/Lucasfilm

Overreliance on Saber Combat: While Cal is a skilled duelist, his Force abilities are relatively limited. He lacks the raw strength of someone like Vader or even the refined technique of Obi-Wan when it comes to individual manipulations of the Force.

Unknown Midichlorian Count: Some fans speculate about Cal Kestis’ midichlorian count, but there’s no official number or realm of comparison like we see with some of the more powerful masters in the Prequels. While he’s clearly strong in the Force, he isn’t on the same level as Anakin or Yoda in terms of raw potential.

Cal Kestis may not be the most powerful Jedi in Star Wars, but his unique abilities and relentless determination make him one of the most compelling. And as his story continues, players will no doubt see him grow even stronger.

Cal Kestis in Live Action

Live Action Speculation

Since the release of Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order in 2019, fans have eagerly anticipated Cal Kestis’s transition from video games to live-action, and rumors have consistently suggested that this may become a reality.

Cameron Monaghan, who portrays Cal in the video games, has expressed interest in reprising his role in live-action, however, he emphasizes that it would need to be meaningful for the character. He stated, “It would have to be right… I want him to mean something and for there to be a significance for the character itself.”

Respawn Entertainment/Lucasfilm

Integrating Cal Kestis into the live-action Star Wars timeline presents a number of intriguing possibilities and is absolutely possible given the current state of Canon. The video games are set between Revenge of the Sith and A New Hope, a period rich with untold stories, and Cal’s journey as a Jedi survivor offers numerous narrative opportunities that could seamlessly blend into existing and upcoming Star Wars series.

While these developments are promising, it’s important to note that plans in the entertainment industry can change rapidly, and perhaps no fanbase understands that better than Star Wars. As of now, Lucasfilm has not officially confirmed Cal Kestis’s live-action debut, but the belief that he will someday make his way to the big screen is as strong as ever.

Cal Kestis and Star Wars Merch

Best Cal Kestis Collectibles

Cal Kestis’ popularity has led to a wide range of collectibles, from highly detailed statues to action figures and even customizable lightsaber replicas. Whether you’re a casual fan or a dedicated collector, there’s a variety of Cal Kestis merchandise available to celebrate the Star Wars Jedi series.

Lego/Gentle Giant/Hasbro/Funko!

Cal Kestis Funko Pop & Action Figures

One of the most affordable and accessible collectibles is the Cal Kestis Funko Pop featuring his original Jedi: Fallen Order look with BD-1 by his side. As someone who owns over 300 Funkos, Cal’s remains one of my favorites due to the quality of the mold and the playful addition of BD – two for the price of one!

For fans looking for high-quality action figures, the Black Series Cal Kestis figures by Hasbro provide detailed articulation and game-accurate designs.

Both Fallen Order and Survivor versions of this figure are available which allow you to see Cal’s literal evolution between games. The Survivor figure includes not only his updated outfit but also a new facial mold that shows a slightly older Cal - ensuring that collectors that spring for both figures aren’t merely getting a new coat of paint.

The Higher End

For serious collectors, the character received a premium statue from Gentle Giant which showcases Cal Kestis in lifelike detail. Equipped with his trusty poncho and BD-1 on his shoulder, Cal strikes a mid-action pose reminiscent of his time in Fallen Order, creating a statue that is perfect for any desk, bookshelf, or mantle for his most dedicated fans.

Cal Kestis Lightsaber Replicas

Cal Kestis’ iconic lightsaber is one of the best parts of playing the Jedi games, and thankfully for all of us, it’s available in multiple formats for collectors and cosplayers alike:

Disney Legacy Lightsaber (Galaxy’s Edge) – Officially licensed and sold at Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities at Disneyland and Disney World in Galaxy’s Edge. The trademark single-blade version is widely available, but for the completionist, there was also a double-bladed version sold in a limited quantity that allows you to switch saber colors between blue, green, purple, yellow, white, and red.

Disney Store

Yes, it’s as cool as it sounds.

Both saber hilts are compatible with blades from the rest of Disney’s Legacy Lightsaber line and fit perfectly in any collection (especially one that I may be looking at on my wall as I write this very article)

Other companies like Pach Store, Sabertrio, and UltraSabers offer high-quality, duel-ready sabers inspired by Cal’s design, with customizable colors and effects.

For those that are looking to display their saber as part of a larger Cal Kestis collection, the Legacy Saber from Disney is probably the way to go due to its authentic look and reasonable price point, while UltraSabers’ versions are more durable for dueling while still giving a more than passable representation of Cal’s iconic weapon.

Cosplaying Cal Kestis

One of the coolest parts about the rise of Cal Kestis has been his immediate acceptance by the Star Wars cosplay community. For those looking to bring Cal Kestis to life, cosplaying as the Jedi survivor himself is a fantastic way to showcase that fandom at local cons or even Star Wars Celebration.

Kristina Borodkina Photography

His outfit is distinctive but achievable, making it a popular cosplay choice for the community and potentially the best option for your next Star Wars event. There are a number of resources like the Art of Jedi: Survivor book that break down every piece of Cal’s look by looking at the actual gameplay models, but here are a few key parts that you’ll want to ensure you have for the final look.

Key Elements of a Cal Kestis Cosplay

1. Cal Kestis Poncho –

• The most recognizable part of his Jedi: Fallen Order look.

• Available through various Amazon and Etsy sellers, or you can create one using specifically weathered fabric for maximum accuracy.

2. BD-1 Shoulder Companion –

• Essential for completing the look and one of the best conversation starters at any convention.

• Can be 3D-printed or purchased as a lightweight wearable prop from community members.

3. Cal Kestis Outfit (Jedi: Survivor Version) –

• Includes a rugged jacket, utility belt, and bracers.

• Etsy and cosplay stores offer high-quality versions of his gear in various colors and combinations based on your personal Cal Kestis outfit choice from Survivor

4. Cal Kestis Lightsaber –

• Based on our guide above, you can choose from a Galaxy’s Edge Legacy Lightsaber or other custom replicas to complete the look.

DIY Cosplay Tips

• Weather your poncho and outfit with sandpaper or dye for a more battle-worn look.

• Use a BD-1 shoulder harness to secure the droid for long wear at conventions.

• If building a lightsaber on a budget, 3D-printing is a great option - especially if you’re only looking to add a hilt to the outfit without a functioning blade

There are also plenty of prebuilt cosplay outfits available online - just be sure to check reviews to make sure you’re able to balance your budget with quality!

Our team has seen some of the best Cal Kestis cosplays at Star Wars Celebrations over the years, and the poncho look remains a favorite due to its simple yet iconic design. But whether you go for his more battle-hardened look from Survivor or his original scrapper look from Fallen Order, cosplaying as Cal Kestis is a fun way to embody one of Star Wars’ most exciting modern heroes who just happens to be one of the most customizable characters in the entire saga.

The Lightsaber Legacy of Cal Kestis

Cal Kestis’s Lightsaber

Cal Kestis’ lightsaber is a unique weapon that evolves throughout the Jedi trilogy.

Originally in Jedi: Fallen Order, Cal wielded a single-bladed blue lightsaber that originally belonged to his master Jaro Tapal. During a flashback sequence, players see the saber get damaged during Order 66, and Cal carries the blade with him for years before combining the hilt with elements from Cere Junda’s saber to create his own double-bladed weapon.

Respawn Entertainment/Lucasfilm

Even without modifications that players are allowed to make throughout the games, the Canon design of Cal’s lightsaber is very distinctive. Jaro Tapal’s original casing is unlike any other seen in Star Wars, and more than anything, the design allows for versatility, enabling Cal to switch between single and double blades, and even split the weapon into two separate lightsabers for dual-wielding combat.

In comparison to other iconic lightsabers in the Star Wars universe, Cal’s weapon stands out for its modularity and the personal history it embodies. While Luke Skywalker’s lightsaber symbolizes hope and legacy, and Darth Vader’s represents power and intimidation, Cal’s lightsaber tells a story of survival, resilience, and the blending of past teachings with new experiences.

Behind the Scenes: Creating Cal Kestis

The Actor Behind the Hero

Cal Kestis is brought to life by actor Cameron Monaghan. Known for his roles in Shameless and Gotham, Monaghan not only provided the voice acting for Cal but also performed full motion capture, allowing his likeness, expressions, and movements to be translated directly into both games.

Lucasfilm

Reflecting on his experience portraying Cal Kestis, Monaghan shared:

“It’s pretty surreal to see a character that you built and got to explore and imagine. It’s a character that I’ve really grown to love.”

During interviews, Monaghan has spoken about how the role required him to merge physical performance and emotional storytelling, making Cal feel like a real and relatable Jedi survivor. He has also expressed interest in bringing the character to live-action, stating that any adaptation would need to “continue the story or the character in some way.”

The Making of the Jedi Games

The development of Cal Kestis as a character was a collaborative effort between Monaghan and Respawn Entertainment, the game studio behind Jedi: Fallen Order and Jedi: Survivor. The developers initially considered different species and genders for the protagonist before ultimately deciding on a Cal as the Jedi to lead this era of Star Wars storytelling.

Monaghan himself was deeply involved in shaping Cal’s personality and journey, stating:

“I wanted Cal’s personality and demeanor and everything to come out of his own experiences and his own stories, and to build it from an inward place."

Respawn Entertainment/Lucasfilm

Beyond storytelling, the Star Wars Jedi games are celebrated for their gameplay mechanics, combining exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving. While mechanics like wall-jumping and parkour add to the excitement, I’ve occasionally found them to be a bit too “video game-y,” occasionally disrupting my own sense of immersion.

That being said, the developers at Respawn seemed to observe these complaints and worked to refine these elements between Fallen Order and Survivor to create a more ideal player experience that runs way smoother.

Voice Acting and Production

Cameron Monaghan’s performance capture process was essential to bringing Cal Kestis to life. Unlike traditional voice acting, this role required him to act out every scene physically, wearing a motion capture suit to record his movements. This technique also allowed for naturalistic animations directly from Monaghan, making Cal’s emotions and combat sequences feel more fluid and lifelike.

Respawn Entertainment/Lucasfilm

Behind the scenes, Monaghan worked closely with game directors and animators, ensuring that his body language and facial expressions aligned with the character’s journey. He has mentioned in interviews that portraying Cal required a brand new type of work for him as the character struggles with his past trauma while trying to rebuild the Jedi way.

Throughout production, Monaghan built strong relationships with the creative team, emphasizing how much the experience meant to him:

“I think one of the most special things about playing Cal is that he’s constantly learning and growing. That’s been my experience as an actor too—getting to evolve alongside the character has been really rewarding.”

Respawn’s developers have also praised Monaghan’s dedication, noting that his improvisations and character insights helped shape key moments in Jedi: Survivor.

Equipment and Gear

As a Jedi, Cal Kestis wields a variety of equipment and gear, including his trusty lightsaber. His original lightsaber was lost during Order 66, but he later constructed a new one using parts from his master’s damaged saber and Junda’s. The new lightsaber is double-bladed, allowing Cal to switch between single-blade, double-blade, and dual-blade combat forms.

In addition to his lightsaber, Cal also possesses a comlink, which he uses to communicate with his allies. He also wears a rebreather, which allows him to explore underwater environments. On Dathomir during Fallen Order, Cal acquired climbing claws, which enable him to scale the planet’s native fire lichen and reach higher ground.

Respawn Entertainment/Lucasfilm

As he navigates the galaxy, Cal also uses his skills as a mechanic to repair and modify his equipment, including BD-1. His resourcefulness and ingenuity are essential to his survival, as he often finds himself in situations where he must rely on his wits and cunning to overcome challenges.

FAQs

How old is Cal Kestis?

In Jedi: Fallen Order, Cal is about 18 years old. By Jedi: Survivor, which takes place five years later, he is around 23 years old.

Is Cal Kestis Canon in Star Wars?

Yes, Cal Kestis is Canon. His story in Jedi: Fallen Order and Jedi: Survivor is officially part of the Star Wars timeline.

What is Cal Kestis’ lightsaber color in canon?

Cal’s Canon lightsaber color is blue, but in the Jedi series of games, players can choose from multiple colors, including green, purple, and white.

Who plays Cal Kestis in the Star Wars Jedi games?

Cal Kestis is played by Cameron Monaghan, who provided both voice acting and motion capture for the character.

Can Cal Kestis beat Darth Vader?

No, Cal is not strong enough to defeat Darth Vader. In Jedi: Fallen Order, he barely escapes after a brief encounter with the Sith Lord.

Why did Cal Kestis turn to the Dark Side?

Cal can temporarily use Dark Side abilities in Jedi: Survivor, but he never fully falls. His use of Dark Side powers is fueled by anger and desperation in battle.

How powerful is Cal Kestis compared to other Jedi?

Cal is a skilled Jedi Knight, but he is not as powerful as legends like Yoda, Obi-Wan, or Luke Skywalker. However, he is a highly trained survivor with strong combat and Force abilities.

Where is Cal Kestis during A New Hope?

Cal’s fate after Jedi: Survivor is unknown, as his story has not yet been explored beyond the game’s timeline, which takes place about 10 years before A New Hope.

Will Cal Kestis appear in live-action Star Wars shows or movies?

There are no official confirmations, but Cameron Monaghan has expressed interest in playing Cal in live-action, and his story could easily fit into future projects.

What is the story behind Cal Kestis’ poncho?

The poncho in Jedi: Fallen Order became a meme among fans due to its abundance of in-game variations, but it was meant to represent Cal’s rugged, survivalist lifestyle as he evaded the Empire. Cameron Monaghan further leaned into the joke by wearing a poncho during an interview at Star Wars Celebration in 2023.

Final Thoughts on Cal Kestis’ Legacy

Cal Kestis has quickly become one of the most compelling new characters in the Star Wars universe. The star of the Jedi series stands as a symbol of resilience and hope, embodying the struggles of the few Jedi who survived Order 66.

His journey—from a Padawan hiding in fear to a powerful Jedi Knight—has resonated deeply with the entire fan community, making him a beloved figure in both Star Wars storytelling and gaming.

Beyond his role in the larger Star Wars mythos, Cal Kestis also represents an exciting evolution in video game storytelling. The Star Wars Jedi games have given players the chance to experience the life of a Jedi firsthand, blending cinematic storytelling with immersive combat and exploration.

For many fans, Cal’s story isn’t just one they watch—it’s one they live through, making his journey feel even more personal and meaningful.

As a longtime Star Wars fan, playing as Cal Kestis felt like stepping into a new kind of Jedi narrative—one filled with emotional weight, difficult choices, and a protagonist who doesn’t always have the answers. His growth through hardship, his battle against the Empire, and his phenomenal connection to BD-1 all make him an unforgettable part of the Star Wars franchise and one of my personal favorites going forward in my own fandom.

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