Jannah is one of the most fascinating and enigmatic characters introduced in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. Brought to life by Naomi Ackie, Jannah’s arrival in the saga expands the storylines of rebellion, courage, and discovery in the galaxy far, far away. As a former stormtrooper who revolted against the First Order, Jannah represents a key symbol of defiance and hope.
Jannah’s Early Life and Her Decision to Rebel
Jannah grew up as a child taken from her home planet by the First Order. Like many other children in the galaxy, Jannah was subjected to the stormtrooper training regimen designed to strip individuals of their identity and transform them into soldiers for the tyrannical regime. For years, Jannah served as a stormtrooper, living under the control of the First Order. However, that was not her fate.
At a critical moment during a mission on the planet Ansett Island, Jannah and her entire squadron experienced something remarkable. Instead of following orders, they refused to fire on innocent civilians. The squadron, led by Jannah, laid down their weapons, choosing to desert the First Order rather than participate in more atrocities. This act of rebellion placed them on the path toward freedom, an important turning point that would lead Jannah to her destiny in the galaxy.
The Rebel Warrior
After escaping from the First Order, Jannah and the group of former stormtroopers sought refuge on the ocean moon of Kef Bir, a distant location in the Endor system. Here, Jannah and her comrades created a new life, free from the grasp of their oppressors. Living off the land, Jannah became a skilled rider and warrior, adapting to the harsh environment of Kef Bir. Her leadership over the ex-stormtroopers demonstrated strong resolve and determination, making Jannah an exceptional leader in her own right.
The warrior would eventually cross paths with the Resistance when Rey, Finn, Poe, and others sought the wreckage of the second Death Star on Kef Bir. Upon meeting Finn, Jannah quickly bonded with him, learning of his own defection from the First Order. This shared history and sense of purpose solidified Jannah’s connection with the Resistance’s fight against the oppressive regime.
Jannah’s Role in the Battle of Exegol
Jannah played a crucial role in one of the most pivotal battles of the Skywalker Saga—the Battle of Exegol. When the Resistance made their final push to destroy Emperor Palpatine’s fleet and prevent the rise of a new Sith Empire, Jannah and her squadron of former stormtroopers joined the fight. Together, they rode Orbaks (a native creature of Kef Bir) across the hull of a Star Destroyer, fearlessly taking the fight directly to the enemy.
Equipped with her bow, which became her signature weapon, Jannah showcased her formidable combat skills in this critical battle. The bravery displayed by Jannah and her team significantly contributed to the Resistance’s success, as they worked alongside Finn and other key members of the Resistance to disable the Star Destroyer’s systems. The unity and determination of Jannah and her fellow warriors were instrumental in the eventual defeat of the Final Order, marking the end of the Sith’s attempt to reclaim power.
Connection to Lando Calrissian
One of the intriguing aspects of Jannah’s story is the hint that she may be related to Lando Calrissian, portrayed by Billy Dee Williams. During the closing scenes of The Rise of Skywalker, Lando expresses interest in helping Jannah discover her origins. This moment implies a possible familial connection between the two characters, sparking speculation that Jannah could be Lando’s long-lost daughter or another individual connected to the broader Star Wars lineage. While this potential relationship remains open-ended, it provides a fascinating possibility for future exploration.
Jannah’s Lightsaber and Weapons
Unlike many key characters in the Star Wars universe, Jannah does not wield a lightsaber. Instead, her signature weapon is a high-tech energy bow, a symbol of her identity as a warrior of the Resistance. This bow, crafted from scavenged materials on Kef Bir, highlights Jannah’s resourcefulness and her ability to adapt to any situation. Throughout her appearance in the final battle, Jannah used the bow with remarkable precision, proving herself as a capable combatant, even without the Force.
Jannah’s Importance to the Resistance and Beyond
Jannah’s story adds depth to the growing narrative of defiance against tyranny. By stepping away from the First Order and forging a new path for herself, Jannah reflects the larger theme in Star Wars of resisting oppression and finding strength in unity. The former stormtrooper’s defection parallels Finn’s own journey, showing that many individuals across the galaxy were capable of breaking free from the First Order’s grip.
Additionally, Jannah’s role in the Resistance serves as an inspiration to others who might question their place in the galaxy. By choosing to rise against the First Order, Jannah became a symbol of courage, showing that anyone, regardless of their past, can change the course of their future. Jannah and her comrades on Kef Bir embody the spirit of rebellion, reminding the galaxy that even those who once served the enemy can become its most fierce opponents.
Legacy and Future Speculation
Though The Rise of Skywalker concludes the main storyline of the Skywalker Saga, Jannah’s story feels far from over. The mystery surrounding her origins, particularly the possible connection with Lando Calrissian, leaves the door open for further exploration in the Star Wars universe. Whether through future films, television series, or other media, there’s potential for Jannah’s journey to continue.
Jannah’s legacy as a fierce warrior and leader of the Resistance on Kef Bir cements her place in the Star Wars saga. The bravery shown in the face of insurmountable odds will remain a significant part of the ongoing struggle for freedom in the galaxy.
