Master Sol in ‘The Acolyte’ Repeated ‘The Last Jedi’s Most Polarizing Controversy

In this week’s Episode 7 of ‘The Acolyte,’ we witnessed a retelling of Episode 3 from Jedi perspective. It was revealed that the Jedi’s mission to Brendok centered around locating a Force Vergence—a space where the Force is exceptionally potent and accessible to those who are attuned to it.

Throughout the episode, we learn that Master Sol had a more significant role in the coven’s demise than previously understood. His actions also played a pivotal part in Mae’s descent to the dark side and her subsequent quest for vengeance against the four Jedi stationed on the planet that fateful night.

When Master Sol encountered the two girls playing in the forest on Brendok, an unusual event unfolded for a Jedi. He quickly formed a deep attachment to young Osha, believing the Force urged him to take her as his Padawan. This decision disregarded Master Indarra’s earlier caution that she had a Padawan for a reason.

From that moment, Master Sol’s connection with Osha led to a series of grave misjudgments. Acting impulsively, he tragically caused the death of Mother Aniseya. Master Sol feared Aniseya posed a threat to Osha and fatally intervened when Aniseya displayed a new Force ability, allowing her to vanish in a cloud of black smoke.

However, the girl Master Sol sought to protect was not Osha, but Mae. Mae witnessed the entire incident, which contributed significantly to her eventual turn to the Dark Side. Even in earlier episodes, young Mae displayed sociopathic tendencies and was manipulative, often coercing her sister into agreement.

Mae harbored a strong aversion towards the Jedi and would rather see Osha suffer than watch her join their ranks. Witnessing Master Sol’s actions confirmed Mae’s fears about the Jedi, intensifying her resentment and driving her further towards darkness.

This moment stirred controversy in the show, drawing parallels to another Jedi whose impulsive actions led a Force user to the dark side: Luke Skywalker and Kylo Ren, once known as Ben Solo before abandoning his former life.

It’s often said that good intentions can pave the road to hell, a lesson echoed in Luke’s relationship with Ben. Sensing darkness in his nephew, Luke reacted impulsively and recklessly. Instead of guiding Ben through his struggles, Luke briefly considered a drastic measure—contemplating the unthinkable act of ending Ben’s life.

Unfortunately, Luke’s apparent change of heart did little to ease Ben’s turmoil. He eventually aligned himself with Snoke and The First Order, his fascination with his grandfather only intensifying.

We’ll never know the outcome had Luke chosen to mentor Ben in embracing and mastering his inner darkness. Speculation suggests this path might have resulted in less devastation than what transpired.

Similarly, Master Sol’s interference with the Witches of Brendok might have prevented Osha and Mae from finding their true paths.

What are your thoughts? Share in the comments below!