When watching the Star Wars films we sometimes forget that for every Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Obi-Wan Kenobi, or Rey, there is a whole host of other characters pulling off daring deeds to bring peace to the galaxy. Well, some fans haven’t forgotten one such hero and have taken to Reddit to celebrate the accomplishments of pilot Wedge Antilles.
Wedge was a rebel fighter pilot hailing from the planet Corellia, first introduced in the first Star Wars film, A New Hope. We first meet him in the briefing for the Death Star attack and he goes on to have a major role in the first operation. Then, along with the help of Lando Calrissian, he is responsible for the destruction of the second Death Star, showing off his incredible combat flying skills in the process.
The character is played by Denis Lawson, the real-world uncle of Obi-Wan Kenobi actor, Ewan McGregor. Lawson reprised his role in The Rise of Skywalker and you can also hear his voice in Rogue One. Outside of film, the character has plenty of lore behind him which is expanded upon in the animated series Star Wars Rebels (voiced by actor Nathan Cress) and in Star Wars novels.
Within the Star Wars universe, Wedge is one of the most competent fighter pilots there is, having fought in a number of battles that had decisive victories. Alongside Luke, he was the only surviving member of the Red Squadron sent to attack the Death Star and it was his efforts that dealt the final blow to the Empire when he blew up the second Death Star. Fans have long loved this character, and have taken to Reddit to share their admiration.
The author of the thread was not alone in their love for the character, with 177 comments forming below their post. One such commenter cites their wife’s opinion that Wedge deserves an employee of the galaxy plaque somewhere.
Many suggested reading some of the Star Wars novels and comics to truly understand how awesome he is.
This user pointed out that these two accomplishments alone are enough to have him in the history books.
Another reminded others that he also took down the enormous ATAT on Hoth as well!
Had Rogue Squadron gone ahead we all know who the main character should have been. You never know, it could be revived.
For most of the commenters on the post, Wedge was the top dog.
It’s nice to see some of the other Star Wars characters that were not lucky enough to be born Skywalkers or Palpatines get some credit, especially when they deserve it as much as Wedge does! If anyone deserves a spin-off series, it’s him.