23 Star Wars Characters That Are Taking Over the Galaxy

When talking about the best Star Wars characters of all time, there’s no doubt that Jedi Master Yoda and Darth Vader top many people’s lists. Yoda is one of the most powerful and wise figures in the whole saga, having trained generations of Jedi Knights before his death. Plus, he was always a fan favorite in the all of the Star Wars movies.

Meanwhile, Darth Vader is the ultimate villain—a man who has fallen to the dark side with incredible power at his disposal. His iconic look, deep voice, and chilling presence made him a fan-favorite character throughout the franchise.

But while these two characters may be obvious choices for any list of great Star Wars characters, there are other characters that are just as beloved by fans. Princess Leia, for instance, is a powerful leader and one of the bravest characters of the franchise. Han Solo is another fan-favorite character with his brash yet lovable personality. And still… we’ve only just scratched the surface!

In this article, we are going to highlight some of the greatest Star Wars characters of all-time, while also noting why they are better than others, and who portrayed their roles in the movies.

Best Star Wars Characters and Actors Who Played their Role

It’s no surprise that people are so passionate about the characters in Star Wars. They have become iconic symbols of heroism, bravery and justice. Each character has their own unique story arc, and every fan can relate to at least one of them on some level. Below, you will find some of the best!

Darth Vader Star Wars

Darth Vader

One of the most iconic characters in Star Wars history, Darth Vader is a Sith Lord who has become synonymous with evil. His tragic backstory includes being recruited by the Sith Lord Palpatine, and then eventually turning against him for good.

He is a powerful Force user and master of lightsaber combat. Played by David Prowse and voiced by James Earl Jones in the original trilogy, Vader’s menacing presence looms large over the series.

Obi-Wan Kenobi

Another one of the most beloved characters in Star Wars history, Obi-Wan Kenobi is a Jedi Master who serves as mentor to both Luke Skywalker and Anakin Skywalker (Darth Vader). Known for his wise words, Obi-Wan was portrayed by Alec Guinness in the original trilogy, and Ewan McGregor in the prequel trilogy.

He is a highly skilled lightsaber duelist and Force user who helps guide Luke on his journey to become a Jedi.

Yoda Star Wars

Yoda

A legendary Jedi Master of great power and wisdom, Yoda is one of the most beloved Star Wars characters ever created. Despite being diminutive in size, he was renowned as one of the most powerful Force users ever known.

Voiced by Frank Oz in all six movies, Yoda imparts wisdom throughout the saga that guides Luke Skywalker on his quest to defeat Darth Vader.

Luke Skywalker Star Wars

Luke Skywalker

The hero of the original trilogy, Luke Skywalker is an innocent farm boy with a destiny greater than he could have ever imagined. After meeting Obi-Wan Kenobi, he embarks on a mission to save the galaxy from the tyrannical Empire.

Played by Mark Hamill, Luke is a noble and courageous hero who uses the Force and his lightsaber skills to defeat Darth Vader and fulfill his destiny.

Han Solo Star Wars

Han Solo

One of the most iconic characters in Star Wars history, Han Solo is a smuggler with a heart of gold. He is initially skeptical of Luke’s quest to save the galaxy but comes around to help him anyway. His daring rescue of Princess Leia cemented his status as an unforgettable hero in Star Wars lore.

Portrayed by Harrison Ford, Han was also known for his quick wit and charm that endeared him to audiences everywhere.

The Mandalorian

The Mandalorian

The title character from the Disney+ series The Mandalorian, this mysterious warrior is a bounty hunter who embarks on a quest to protect “The Child” (Grogu). He was portrayed by Pedro Pascal and quickly became one of the most beloved characters in the Star Wars universe.

With his code of honor and unwavering resolve, he showed audiences that there is still good in the galaxy even after the fall of the Empire.

R2-D2

R2-D2

A lovable droid who has been with us since Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope, R2-D2 is an astromech droid who displays incredible courage and loyalty throughout his adventures.

Voiced by Ben Burtt, R2 helps Luke Skywalker defeat Darth Vader at the Battle of Yavin and continues to accompany him on his journeys. He played a pivotal role in the saga, ultimately helping save the galaxy from destruction.

Chewbacca

Chewbacca

A loyal companion to Han Solo, Chewbacca is a Wookiee who proudly serves as co-pilot of the Millennium Falcon. Known for his trademark roar, Chewie provided support and humor throughout the original trilogy.

He was portrayed by Peter Mayhew until 2015, when Joonas Suotamo took over the role in The Force Awakens. Chewbacca’s unwavering loyalty towards Han made him one of the most beloved characters in Star Wars history.

Leia Organa

Leia Organa

Princess (and later General) Leia Organa is another beloved Star Wars character who has been with us since the original trilogy. She is a fearless leader and fighter, leading the Rebellion against the Empire in order to save the galaxy from its tyranny. Played by Carrie Fisher, Leia was a strong female character strong female character who showed that even in times of difficulty there can still be hope.

Darth Maul Star Wars

Darth Maul

One of the main villains of The Phantom Menace, Darth Maul is an imposing Sith Lord who serves Darth Sidious (Emperor Palpatine). A master of lightsaber combat, he faces off against Obi-Wan Kenobi during their duel on Naboo.

He was portrayed by Ray Park in The Phantom Menace and reprised his role in Solo: A Star Wars Story and The Clone Wars TV show.

Grogu Star Wars

Grogu (The Child)

Everyone’s favorite alien baby, Grogu was a fan-favorite character from the first season of The Mandalorian. His real name is “the Child” and he is 50 years old by the end of Season One.

Voiced by Dee Bradley Baker, Grogu has quickly become one of the most beloved characters in Star Wars history thanks to his mischievous nature and adorable looks.

Ahsoka Tano

A former Jedi Padawan who left the order and joined the Rebellion, Ahsoka Tano is a major character in The Clone Wars TV show. After surviving Order 66, she became a powerful warrior who fought alongside Captain Rex against Darth Maul and other enemies of the Republic.

Voiced by Ashley Eckstein, Ahsoka is a powerful character who many fans consider to be one of Star Wars’ strongest heroes.

Captain Rex

A Clone Trooper who serves alongside Anakin Skywalker and Ahsoka Tano in The Clone Wars TV show, Captain Rex is loyal to the Republic and his Jedi generals. He was voiced by Dee Bradley Baker and portrayed as an honorable warrior with a sense of morality despite being created for battle.

His story arc was beloved by audiences and made him a fan-favorite character in the Star Wars universe.

Qui-Gon Jinn

A powerful Jedi Master who trained Obi-Wan Kenobi, Qui-Gon Jinn appears in The Phantom Menace. Despite being a wise and respected Jedi, he was killed by Darth Maul during a duel on Naboo.

He was portrayed by Liam Neeson in The Phantom Menace and would be fondly remembered as one of the greatest Jedi to ever live.

Emperor Palpatine

Also known as Darth Sidious, Emperor Palpatine is the main antagonist of the Star Wars saga. He rules with an iron fist under the Galactic Empire, using manipulation and fear to ensure his enemies are kept at bay.

Played by Ian McDiarmid in all six movies, he is easily one of the most iconic villains in cinematic history.

Boba Fett Star Wars

Boba Fett

A mysterious bounty hunter who first appeared in The Empire Strikes Back, Boba Fett is one of the most feared characters in the Star Wars universe. He was portrayed by Jeremy Bulloch in both The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, and his status as a fan-favorite character has only grown since then.

Mace Windu

A powerful Jedi Master who serves on the Jedi council during The Phantom Menace, Mace Windu is a wise and respected warrior of great power. Played by Samuel L Jackson, he faces off against Darth Sidious during their duel on Coruscant but ultimately falls to his dark counterpart’s immense power. Nonetheless, Mace Windu remains an important part of Star Wars history.

Padmé Amidala

A former senator and queen of Naboo, Padmé Amidala is a major character in the prequel trilogy. She was portrayed by Natalie Portman and served as a romantic interest for Anakin Skywalker throughout the films.

She was also a powerful political leader who inspired hope in her people during difficult times.

Lando Calrissian

A charming gambler and former smuggler, Lando Calrissian first appears in The Empire Strikes Back.

Played by Billy Dee Williams, he helps Han Solo and Leia Organa escape from Cloud City, thus becoming an important part of the Rebellion’s fight against the Galactic Empire.

General Grievous Star Wars

General Grievous

One of the main villains of Revenge of the Sith, General Grievous is an imposing cyborg general who serves Darth Sidious.

Voiced by Matthew Wood, he is a menacing and powerful enemy who proves to be a challenge for Obi-Wan Kenobi. He was ultimately defeated on Utapau but remains an important villain in Star Wars history.

C-3PO Star Wars

C-3PO

A protocol droid who serves as the comic relief in many Star Wars movies, C-3PO often finds himself in dangerous situations alongside his companion R2-D2.

He is voiced by Anthony Daniels and has been portrayed as both a bumbling fool and an important member of the team since his introduction in A New Hope.

Count Dooku

Also known as Darth Tyranus, Count Dooku is the main antagonist of Attack of the Clones and Revenge of the Sith.

Played by Christopher Lee, he is a powerful Sith Lord who serves as an arch-enemy to both Obi-Wan Kenobi and Yoda. He is ultimately killed by Anakin Skywalker in their final duel on Mustafar.

Admiral Ackbar Star Wars

Admiral Ackbar

A beloved Mon Calamari commander, Admiral Ackbar first appears in Return of the Jedi. Voiced by Erik Bauersfeld, he is best known for his iconic line “It’s a trap!” His loyalty to the Rebellion make him an important ally during their fight against the Galactic Empire.

He remains one of the most popular characters from Star Wars today.

The Greatest Star Wars Characters and Roles

The Star Wars universe is full of fascinating characters. From the heroic Luke Skywalker to the villainous Darth Vader, these characters are beloved by millions around the world.

But which ones stand out as the best? Well, at the end of the day, it’s all up to the fans!

For more fun and exciting articles like this one, be sure to check out these actors from the Marvel Universe, and our new list on the best dynamic duos of all time!