The Acolyte might not be the top pick for every Star Wars fan, but it’s introduced some memorable new characters. With a hefty budget of $20 million per episode, it’s one of the most expensive TV series ever made. While some of that money might not have gone into perfecting the scripts or lighting, it’s definitely visible in the diverse array of aliens featured in the show.
One standout character is Jecki Lon, a Padawan learner who’s a unique blend of Theelin and human, marking a first for the Star Wars universe.
What Species Is Jecki Lon in The Acolyte?
If Jecki’s vibrant orange skin looks familiar, it’s because it echoes the first Theelin character from the Star Wars universe. In the remastered version of Return of the Jedi, there’s a Theelin named Rystáll Sant who was part of the “Jedi Rock” musical number.
The Theelin are known for their artistic talents and distinctive features like mottled skin, bright hair, facial horns, and hooved feet. Leslye Headland, the creator of The Acolyte, expressed her excitement about bringing a Theelin-human hybrid to life. She mentioned her admiration for Sant and her wish to see a Jedi version of this species. Jecki Lon, played by Dafne Keen, was a dream come true for her.
How Old Is Jecki Lon in The Acolyte?
Jecki is still a Padawan in The Acolyte, working under Jedi Master Sol. While the show doesn’t specify her exact age, Padawans typically start their training around 13, so Jecki is likely between 14 and 16 years old. Despite her youth, Jecki is highly logical and deeply committed to the Jedi teachings. She’s mature for her age, showing respect to her elders while also recognizing their flaws.
Who Plays Jecki Lon in The Acolyte?
Dafne Keen, a British-Spanish actress, plays Jecki. She comes from a family with a strong artistic background and began acting alongside her father at just 9 years old. Keen is well-known for her roles as Laura in Logan and as Lyra Belacqua in the BBC series His Dark Materials.
What Happened to Jecki Lon?
Jecki is one of the first Jedi to believe in Osha’s innocence and takes on a mission to help Master Kelnacca prove it. Sadly, this mission to Kohfar turns out to be her last.
During the mission, Jecki and her fellow Jedi discover that the apothecary they had questioned was actually The Stranger, a Sith orchestrating attacks. Jecki survives the initial battle, where The Stranger kills several older Jedi, including Yord Fandar, and defeats Mae in combat.
Jecki and Sol face The Stranger again in a duel that many fans have praised as one of the best lightsaber battles since “Duel of the Fates” from The Phantom Menace. Jecki, skilled with both single and double lightsabers, manages to fend off The Stranger and even damages his Cortosis helmet.
However, despite her impressive skills, Jecki is ultimately overpowered by The Stranger. After removing his helmet, The Stranger reveals a hidden Shoto blade and ends Jecki’s life. Her body is later found with the other fallen Jedi, and her death is blamed on Jedi Master Sol.
