Why is Mara Jade a Controversial Character in the Star Wars Fandom?
One of the most beloved characters in the Star Wars universe, Mara Jade, has recently sparked controversy in the fandom due to her absence in the sequels. Her exclusion from the newer films and Star Wars: The Clone Wars (TCW) has led to discussions about how the Expanded Universe (EU) or Legends storylines should be handled. This article will explore why her absence has raised eyebrows among fans and how it reflects the complex relationship between fan expectations and official canon.
Introduction to Mara Jade
Mara Jade, the character played by Claudia Fischer and later Carrie Fisher, is a captivating force within the Star Wars universe. Originally introduced as a fierce and cold villain in Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi, she later transformed into a key character in the Expanded Universe (EU) and the Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic (KotOR) games. Her complexity and depth make her a standout character, blending elements of the femme fatale with a poignant backstory that delves into the workings of the Force and the moral ambiguities of the Imperial era.
The Controversy Surrounding Mara Jade's Absence
The absence of Mara Jade in the Star Wars sequel trilogy and certain animated series has been a point of contention. Many fans, especially those who were deeply invested in the EU, feel that her story is incomplete without her inclusion. The Star Wars: The Last Jedi and the sequels have brought in new characters and storylines, but have not reintroduced Mara beyond a brief mention. Her absence has led many fans to advocate for her return, arguing that her character provides a well-rounded perspective that is lost without her.
Reasons for Her Controversy
Several factors contribute to the debate surrounding Mara Jade's absence:
Lack of Full Story in Sequels
The sequels have largely focused on new characters and storylines, particularly those involving Rey, Finn, and the First Order. As a result, Mara Jade, who has a significant backstory and a role in both the original film and the managed universe, is left out. Fans feel that her story is incomplete and her absence in major films and shows is a missed opportunity to explore her depth and impact on the canon.
Heated Discussions in Fan Communities
The issue of Mara Jade's canon status has been a topic of heated discussions in various Star Wars fan communities. Some fans support the continuation of the Legends storyline, advocating for a new series or show featuring Mara Jade and other Legends characters. These discussions often involve arguments about the benefits of maintaining the Legends canon versus streamlining the narrative for a more cohesive Star Wars universe under Disney's direction.
Consequences of the Canon Decision
The decision to no longer include Mara Jade in the official Star Wars canon has had significant implications for the franchise. Fans who were invested in the Legends storyline feel a sense of betrayal, while others support the move towards a more streamlined and cohesive narrative. This has led to a divide within the fandom, with some demanding a return to the Legends storyline and others supporting the direction chosen by the Disney corporation.
Proposed Solutions and Fan Demands
Many fans have proposed various solutions to address the issue, including creating new Star Wars content that incorporates elements of the Legends storyline. One popular suggestion is to develop a series or movie that focuses on Mara Jade and the other Legends characters, perhaps after the events of the original trilogy. Such content would allow for a rich exploration of their stories and their impact on the Star Wars universe.
Specific Fan Demands
The fan community has vocalized several demands to address the issue:
Maria Jade's Canon Marriage: Some fans, including the author, advocate for a canon marriage between Mara and Luke Skywalker. They argue that their relationship is a significant part of the Legends canon and should be included in the Star Wars narrative. A simple and noble way to incorporate this could be to have Mara die a few years before the events of Star Wars: The Force Awakens in an explosion while saving others. Kyle Katarn's Departure: Another fan demand is for Kyle Katarn, a character closely aligned with Mara, to leave the Jedi Order. Fans propose this might occur before the events of the sequel trilogy, perhaps due to personal spiritual quests or disagreements with Luke Skywalker. This would help maintain the continuity of the Star Wars narrative while allowing for deeper exploration of Mara's legacy.Conclusion
The controversy surrounding Mara Jade's absence in the Star Wars sequels reflects the complex relationship between fans' desires and the official canon. While some fans advocate for a return to the Legends storyline, others support a more streamlined narrative. As the Star Wars franchise continues to evolve, it is likely that these debates will continue, shaping the direction of the franchise and its place in the hearts of fans.