Every Major Cameo in ‘The Acolyte’ Episode 8 Explained & What It Means for the Future of the Show

With the release of episode 8, ‘Star Wars: The Acolyte’ has finally concluded its first season. It has been a tumultuous journey, filled with controversy, backlash, theories, and everything in between.

The final episode fell short of delivering a satisfying conclusion to Osha’s character arc. When Headland hinted that the Jedi would be portrayed as the antagonists, she certainly wasn’t exaggerating.

As we speculated, the show ultimately did not break canon. No one who witnessed Qimir declaring himself a Sith lived to tell the tale, except for Mae, whose mind was completely wiped, leaving her with memories only from 16 years ago, during the night the Witches of Brendok were eliminated.

With continuity intact, the episode’s high points were undoubtedly the two significant cameos. Though brief and not crucial to the plot, they hinted at exciting possibilities for the show’s future. Let’s explore why these moments were so compelling.

1. Darth Plagueis

Headland hinted over a week ago that another Sith was active during the events of ‘The Acolyte.’ This sparked numerous theories, some far-fetched and some accurate. If you hoped to see Darth Plagueis in the show, you have reason to be thrilled.

On the planet where Qimir and Osha are stationed, there is a scene featuring a shadowy male Muun figure cloaked in black, watching them. This can only be Darth Plagueis the Wise—Palpatine’s Sith master.

While we know that Palpatine will eventually kill Plagueis, the details of what happened in between have been unclear in live-action media. Now, it appears that Plagueis was connected to Qimir for some time. What does this mean for the future of ‘The Acolyte’?

In recent interviews, Headland mentioned that she has ideas on how to link ‘The Acolyte’ with Palpatine’s and Plagueis’ story, though it would be complex and messy. If the show gets a second season, I have full faith that Headland will build on this tease and develop the storyline in that direction.

2. Master Yoda

Headland initially claimed that Yoda would not appear in the show, but it was a pleasant surprise to see the character included in a clever way. The showrunner skillfully featured the Jedi Grand Master by showing him from behind and not explicitly naming him, thus staying within the rules.

Yoda’s appearance was anticipated, given that he was active during this era and would inevitably be aware of major incidents like those on Brendok and Khofar. So, what does Yoda’s cameo mean for the future of ‘The Acolyte’?

While Yoda is unlikely to play a major role in season 2, his presence indicates that Vernestra will need assistance in capturing her former Padawan, now turned Sith, Qimir. Yoda might offer advice and guidance, helping her determine the best course of action.

These two significant cameos were well-received and have somewhat redeemed the show. What do you think? Let us know in the comments below!