The Star Wars universe always has a way of delighting its fans, whether it’s by bringing back familiar faces or introducing exciting new characters.
But did you know that only two characters appear in every single movie of the Skywalker Saga, from Episode I all the way to Episode IX?
Let’s find out who these two characters are!
Yet, among all the heroes, villains, and creatures, only two characters have the unique honor of appearing in every single film of the Skywalker Saga.
These beloved characters are none other than the iconic droids, C-3PO and R2-D2.
Right from the very first time Star Wars: A New Hope was released, the first characters to appear and speak are C-3PO, trying to communicate with R2-D2.
Table of Contents
The Original
The original trilogy sees C-3PO and R2-D2 at the heart of the Rebel Alliance’s struggle against the Galactic Empire. These two droids play pivotal roles in several key moments throughout the saga.
They begin their journey by delivering the Death Star plans to Princess Leia, a mission that sets the entire rebellion into motion.
R2-D2, carrying the plans, escapes to Tatooine with C-3PO, where they encounter Luke Skywalker. This meeting is crucial, as it leads Luke to discover his destiny and join the Rebel Alliance.
Throughout Luke’s journey to become a Jedi, R2-D2 and C-3PO provide invaluable support.
R2-D2 accompanies Luke on his X-wing during the attack on the Death Star, where he plays a critical role in the successful destruction of the station.
C-3PO, with his extensive knowledge of languages and cultures, assists in various diplomatic and strategic missions, often providing comic relief and a touch of humanity to the group’s endeavors.
The Prequel
In “The Phantom Menace,” we are introduced to a young Anakin Skywalker, who builds C-3PO.
This act of creation not only showcases Anakin’s exceptional technical skills but also establishes a deep connection between the droid and his maker.
C-3PO, initially a protocol droid designed to assist with etiquette and translation, becomes an integral part of Anakin’s life and, subsequently, the larger “Star Wars” saga.
R2-D2, on the other hand, is already a seasoned astromech droid serving Queen Amidala.
His resourcefulness and bravery are immediately evident when he helps repair Queen Amidala’s starship during their escape from Naboo, earning him a place of honor among her retinue.
This moment marks the beginning of R2-D2’s long and storied involvement in the galaxy’s pivotal events.
Throughout the prequel trilogy, C-3PO and R2-D2 play crucial roles in the unfolding drama.
R2-D2’s technical prowess and fearless nature see him navigating dangerous missions, such as infiltrating enemy bases and assisting in critical battles.
Together, these droids witness and influence many significant events, from the rise of the Galactic Empire to the fall of the Jedi Order.
The Sequel
In the sequel trilogy, the droids continue to be pivotal characters. Although their screen time is more limited, their presence is felt throughout.
R2-D2 holds the key to finding Luke Skywalker, and C-3PO’s knowledge and translations are crucial in the Resistance’s fight against the First Order.
For instance, in “The Rise of Skywalker,” C-3PO’s ability to translate the Sith language, despite the restrictions placed on him, becomes a vital part of the mission to find Exegol.
Their enduring presence in the sequel trilogy not only provides continuity with the original and prequel trilogies but also highlights their importance in the broader “Star Wars” saga.
Despite the new characters and evolving storylines, R2-D2 and C-3PO remain beloved figures whose contributions are indispensable to the fight against tyranny.
