Star Wars Rebels debuted last week to generally positive reviews on Disney and Disney XD in the form of the hour-long special "Spark of Rebellion." Now the show's debut episode will be broadcast on ABC on Oct. 26 but with an extra scene featuring none other than Darth Vader himself to mark the occasion.
While that piece of information alone is enough to make the legions of Star Wars fans turn out in droves for the broadcast, the news does get better. Not only will Darth Vader be appearing, but he will once again be voiced by legendary actor James Earl Jones.
Vader will appear in a scene that gives viewers more insight into the role of the Inquisitor, Vader's right hand man and the chief villain of the animated series.
"We wanted to do something special for the ABC broadcast," Rebels executive producer David Filoni says. "We've added a scene which gives audiences insight into the Inquisitor and includes a cameo by Darth Vader voiced by the distinguished actor James Earl Jones."
That's exciting news, even for fans who have already watched the premiere once. Disney says 6.5 million viewers tuned in for the original premiere. Prior to the debut, Disney also renewed the show for a season two, thanks to positive reviews from critics. Episode two and three of the show can currently be watched online via Disney XD.
Star Wars Rebels is set between Episodes III and IV as the Empire is at the height of its power. When the young boy Ezra gets caught up with a group of rebels fighting against the Empire's oppression, it sets off an adventure that is sure to bring about the creation of the Rebel alliance. Rumor has it that the Inquisitor, or others like him, may play a role in the upcoming Star Wars: Episode VII from J.J. Abrams, though nothing is confirmed at this point. Star Wars Rebels is official Star Wars universe canon, and since Disney and Lucasfilm are now working to ensure a coherent Star Wars expanded universe where everything is Lucas approved, it would make sense if we could see hints of what is to come in Episode VII appear in Rebels.
Be sure to check out our primer on Star Wars Rebels for all the reasons this latest addition to the Star Wars universe is worth paying attention to.
