A whole new group of Star Wars fans now know who Ahsoka Tano is because of The Mandalorian. Rosario Dawson’s character did not originate in the live action series, however. Ashley Eckstein was (and remains) the heart and soul of the character. She originated Ahsoka for the animated Clone Wars film and series way back in 2006. Now the actress has divulged some amazing insight in the character’s background and history.
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Yesterday Eckstein disclosed the original offer letter she received for the part of Ahsoka Tano. The letter included the original Ahsoka character description. Eckstein would use that to build one of the most popular characters in all of Star Wars. The letter also provides some interesting detail and insight into the character. (Some of which has never been revealed until now). In hindsight, Ahsoka’s original character description makes the character all the more special.
Ashley Eckstein reveals the origins of Ahsoka Tano
(Image: Lucasfilm Ltd.)
Looking back on Ahsoka and her development through The Clone Wars, Star Wars Rebels, and now The Mandalorian, we see that her character arc was aptly titled. Below is the official description for “Ahsoka’s Transformation:”
“Through the course of the series, Ahsoka will become more competent and powerful on her way to becoming a full fledged Jedi. Ahsoka will learn to rely on herself in connection with the Force as she becomes a powerful Jedi and strong young woman. Her hero’s journey transformation will be evident in stories focusing on her personal growth through the Jedi Hero lessons.”
The original character traits are also spot-on for the Ahsoka Tano we’ve come to love and appreciate: She’s brave & feisty; patient & intuitive; opinionated & talkative. Moreover, the letter reveals that Ahsoka always had her suspicions about Anakin and Padme. Another surprising revelation, however, arrives by way of the description of her training and confirms that Ahsoka did study with, and learn from, her fellow Togruta Jedi, Master Shaak Ti. (Although that never came out specifically in The Clone Wars.) Apparently Shaak Ti taught Ahsoka the “Jedi art of evasion.” As a result, Ahsoka developed into “an extremely evasive warrior.”
Rosario Dawson will no doubt continue to further develop the character in the upcoming Ahsoka series. Notwithstanding, it will always be Eckstein who masterfully embraced the character of Ahsoka Tano and brought her to life.
