Some new images have been floating around this week from Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker. Check them out below!

Welcome The Knights of Ren to Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker

They seem to be the hot topic of the final installment, essentially because we know very little about them and what their role in all this is yet. They look intimidating and pretty dark. Fans seem to like the grittier side of Star Wars based on reactions to Rogue One. These guys look to deliver on that and then some. There is a lot of speculation on their portrayal. Until recently we didn’t know who Dominic Monaghan would play, and the on-again-off-again rumors around Matt Smith being in the film added to the fire.

One of the Knights of Ren. Who are they?
One of the Knights of Ren. Who are they?
Up close with the Knights of Ren - Episode IX
Up close with the Knights of Ren – Episode IX, from Empire Magazine

Sith Troopers

We’ve seen the regular troopers. Now we get a closer look at the red-clad Sith Jet Trooper. I like this design better than the regular trooper design, especially the helmet.

The Sith Jet Trooper - Episode IX
The Sith Jet Trooper – Episode IX

Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker – Rose Tico

Rose’s character was not well-received in The Last Jedi, and it really has nothing to do with Kelly-Marie Tran as an actress. It had everything to do with bad writing. She’s been notably absent from promotional materials for Episode IX, but now we get a peek at what appears to be a more leader-like persona of the character. I can already see the “Indiana Rose” jokes coming…

Rose Tico - Episode IX
Rose Tico – Episode IX

Related Story: Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker Hype

Temmin Wexley

Readers of Chuck Wendig’s Star Wars: Aftermath books will remember Temmin “Snap” Wexley. I was surprised to see him be credited in The Force Awakens, portrayed by actor Greg Grunberg. Temmin was an interesting character in the books, more so because of his re-purposed, murderous Clone Wars-era droid, Bones. Too bad Bones didn’t get in the movie, too.

Timmin Wexley and his new friend - Episode IX
Timmin Wexley and his new friend – Episode IX

Poe and Finn

The bro-mance of these two has been awkward at times, like the whole jacket scene. I like the new look of them both, however, in these shots. Oscar Isaacs said he felt like the new look of Poe gave a more Special Forces vibe, showing his character is more than just a pilot. Finn’s new threads give him more of his own identity, which was needed. Poe’s jacket was sharp, but it was time for a make-over for the former Storm Trooper.

Poe's new look - Episode IX
Poe’s new look – Episode IX
 Finn's new look - Episode IX
Finn’s new look – Episode IX

Bonus: The Mandalorian

Fans are a little divided on what they are more excited for; Episode IX or The Mandalorian on Disney+. This shot of Mando at the controls of the Razor Crest is pretty sweet. We’re hoping to see a lot more before the show debuts next month.

Bonus image: The Mandalorian at the helm of his ship, The Razor Crest
Bonus image: The Mandalorian at the helm of his ship, The Razor Crest

When is the new trailer for Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker?

If history is a teacher, it’s time for a new one to drop. Monday Night Football halftime has been the vehicle of choice for the previous films, so you might want to clear your Monday night schedule for the next couple weeks. Even if you aren’t a football fan, it might be worth the watch. Star Wars News.net says the rumor is the October 21st game on ESPN between the Patriots and the Jets. If so, that may be by design, since the 21st is also Carrie Fisher’s birthday.

The Last Jedi final trailer aired on Monday Night Football in 2017
The Last Jedi final trailer aired on Monday Night Football in 2017

When the new trailer finally does drop, check back with That Hashtag Show for in-depth review of all the dirty little secrets they share on Episode IX. Until then, may the Force be with you!