The Star Wars universe is home to a wide array of alien species, each with unique characteristics and fascinating histories. One of the most intriguing among them is Yoda’s species, known for their powerful connection to the Force and incredibly long lifespans. Although Yoda is the most famous representative, he is not the only member of his species to serve on the Jedi High Council. This title also belongs to Grogu and a less-known character: Master Yaddle.
A Brief Overview of Yoda’s Species
Despite the iconic status of Yoda and the newfound popularity of Grogu (also known as “The Child” or “Baby Yoda”), the actual name of their species remains a mystery in the Star Wars universe. Even as of the events of “The Mandalorian,” there is still little canonical information about the origins, characteristics, or even the actual name of this species.
What is known is that members of Yoda’s species are extremely Force-sensitive and possess notably long lifespans, living for several centuries. They also retain a youthful appearance for a significant portion of their lives, as seen with Grogu, who is a juvenile at 50 years old.
Introducing Master Yaddle
Yaddle is the only other member of Yoda’s species who has served on the Jedi High Council. She appears in Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace, sitting among the esteemed Jedi leaders, although she does not have a speaking role in the film. Her presence signifies that Yoda is not the only one of his kind who has reached the upper echelons of the Jedi Order.
Yaddle’s Role in the Jedi Order
While Yaddle’s screen time was brief, her character has been expanded upon in the Star Wars Expanded Universe, now termed Legends after Disney’s acquisition of Lucasfilm. Yaddle was known to have been a wise and powerful Jedi Master who spent a millennium serving the Jedi Order.
Like Yoda, Yaddle was recognized for her immense wisdom and powerful connection to the Force. However, she also had a reputation for being somewhat more compassionate and understanding than some of her peers, often showing leniency towards younger Jedi.
Yaddle’s Disappearance from the Council
By the time of Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones, Yaddle is no longer seen on the Jedi Council. The reason for her absence in the films has never been explicitly given, leading to various speculations among fans and expanded universe authors. Some stories in the Legends canon suggest that Yaddle gave her life to save others, leading to her departure from the Council.
Image: Star Wars
