As part of Star Wars Day 2023, Lucasfilm rolled out new a seven-episode animated series set in the High Republic Era, Young Jedi Adventures. Though it’s aimed at younger audiences, the question of whether or not the events in the series are considered canon has been raised as the series introduces new characters–and even a brand new species–during an era that’s yet to be explored outside of publication. In a press release, Lucasfilm has addressed the issue of the canonicity of the new series.
Set 200 years before “The Phantom Menace,” during the High Republic era, “Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” follows Jedi younglings as they study the ways of the Force, explore the galaxy, help citizens and creatures in need and learn valuable skills needed to become Jedi along the way. Produced by Lucasfilm in collaboration with Wild Canary for Disney+ and Disney Junior, “Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” is executive produced by Lucasfilm’s James Waugh, Jacqui Lopez, and Josh Rimes. Michael Olson (“Puppy Dog Pals”) is showrunner and executive producer; Elliot M. Bour (“Elena of Avalor”) is supervising director and co-producer; Jeannine Hodson (“Puppy Dog Pals”) is producer; and Lamont Magee (“Black Lightning”) is consulting producer. “Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” stars Jamaal Avery, Jr. as Kai Brightstar, Juliet Donenfeld as Lys Solay, Dee Bradley Baker as Nubs, Emma Berman as Nash Durango, Jonathan Lipow as RJ-83, and Piotr Michael as Master Yoda.
The reference to the events of The Phantom Menace would certainly seem to cement the series as canon in the Star Wars universe despite the show not really targeting the type of audience who cares about such things. As executive producer and Lucasfilm Senior Vice President Franchise Content & Strategy James Waugh explained “Star Wars transcends generations; fans of all ages deeply connect with its imaginative worlds, mythic stories, and unique characters.”
Fans of the Marvel animated series, Spidey and His Amazing Friends, will find it shares a lot in common with Young Jedi Adventures. Not only does the new Star Wars series share the animated style of the Spidey show, it’s also similarly formatted and each pair of episodes is packed with opportunities for young viewers to learn core values through brand new characters. “When developing Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures, the first Star Wars series created for preschoolers, the creative team never stopped thinking about how this show may be a “youngling’s” first step into a larger world and their first time experiencing the limitless potential of the Star Wars galaxy,” explained Waugh. “The show’s characters, tone, and the life lessons woven throughout each episode were written just for them, and our talented team was committed to honoring the cinematic legacy while staying true to the expectations of parents for the youngest of audiences.“
You can read our full review of the new animated series right here before checking out the series which is now streaming on Disney Plus.
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