In Episode 6 of The Acolyte, viewers are introduced to an “Unknown Planet” where Qimir takes refuge. The planet’s design strongly resembles Bal’demnic, a pivotal location in Star Wars Legends lore.
Bal’demnic is an oceanic planet dotted with rocky tropical islands, located in the Outer Rim territories. What makes it particularly significant is its abundant deposits of cortosis, a valuable and rare element.
According to Legends, Darth Tenebrous discovered the cortosis deposits on Bal’demnic and seized them with his apprentice, Darth Plagueis.
In a dramatic turn of events, Plagueis betrayed and murdered Tenebrous on this very planet, keeping Bal’demnic and its precious cortosis hidden from galactic politics.
It wasn’t until the Clone Wars that the Confederacy of Independent Systems, secretly led by Sith Lords, sought out the ore.
In The Acolyte Episode 5, we see “The Stranger” utilizing cortosis in his gauntlets and helmet. This grants him a significant advantage, allowing him to block and temporarily short-circuit lightsabers.
Showrunner Leslye Headland has confirmed that cortosis has been pulled straight from Legends lore into the main canon.
She hinted that while cortosis is a key element, other aspects from Legends are being incorporated into the series, though revealing them would lead to major spoilers.
So, to recap: Cortosis is now officially canon, and a mysterious Sith is using it while residing on a planet that likely ties back to Legends mythology.
Considering this, it isn’t far-fetched to speculate that more of the Legends storyline might be integrated into the main canon.
The incorporation of these elements not only enriches the current narrative but also bridges the gap between the expansive Star Wars Legends and the official canon, setting the stage for deeper lore exploration and possibly the introduction of more legendary Sith Lords.