Dave Filoni and Jon Favreau always manage to stir things up at Star Wars Celebration. This year was no different, as they did so with a rousing panel on The Mandalorian Season 3. It was at the end of the panel, however, when we finally got some information, and a sneak peak, at the upcoming Ahsoka series on Disney+. Rosario Dawson returns in the titular role early next year… but its who she’s bringing with her that came as a huge and welcome surprise to panel attendees.

Ahsoka
Production model of Ahoska’s T-6 Shuttle to appear in the upcoming series. (Image: JJ Goodman for That Hashtag Show)

 Of course, we already knew that Sabine Wren would make her live-action debut in the series. Actress Natasha Liu Bordizzo took the stage for her first Star Wars Celebration to talk about becoming part of the Star Wars family. Though the show is only three weeks into production, we even got to see her (albeit briefly and from behind) in a quick teaser for Ahsoka. What’s interesting is that the scene also confirms that Lothal will make its live-action debut, as well. The scene shows Sabine in front of the mural she painted of her Rebel cell in the cave in Star Wars Rebels’ series finale.

Surprise characters join cast of Star Wars: Ahsoka

Ahsoka
Sabine will return to this mural in live-action in the Ahoska series, coming early 2023. (Image: Lucasfilm Ltd.)

While fans desperately hoped for confirmation of Lars Mikkelsen playing Grand Admiral Thrawn, they were nonetheless treated to confirmation of two other Rebels characters joining the show. Dawson herself confirmed that Chopper will appear in Ahsoka. She herself introduced the droid as Chop made a live appearance on stage at the panel. Of course, where Chopper goes….

The teaser also confirmed that Hera Syndulla will make the jump to live-action, as well. A quick scene showed a a number of New Republic officers walking onto what appeared to be the bridge of a ship. Again, though seen from behind, Hera’s green lekku and signature orange flight suit were a dead giveaway.

Hera Syndulla; Star Wars Rebels
Image: Lucasfilm Ltd.

We’ll keep you posted on this and everything else Star Wars her at That Hashtag Show as Celebration winds down this weekend. for more information, visit starwars.com.