Warning: this article features spoilers for episode one of The Mandalorian season three.
Din Djarin and Grogu are finally back as hit Star Wars show The Mandalorian returns to our screens with season three kicking off with a fun episode.
There was plenty of action and drama as the duo begin their quest for redemption, preparing to head to Mandalore in search of the mines that are home to the living waters.
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However, arguably the most intriguing part of this opening episode was a small Easter egg that could be teasing the return of fan-favourite Star Wars Rebels character Ezra Bridger.
Want to know more? Let’s dive into it.
What Is A Purrgil?
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During one brief scene in episode one, which is titled The Apostate, we see Mando and Grogu flying through hyperspace.
Our favourite little guy is amazed by the view, staring out of the window, spotting the silhouettes of some huge creatures that are moving alongside the spaceship.
As many Star Wars fans will already know, these mysterious creatures are known as Purrgils, semi-sentient whale-like beings that live in the depths of space.
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In the galaxy far, far away, Purrgils are mystical animals that can travel faster than the speed of light, through hyperspace, without the need for any technology.
They are typically the size of a spaceship but can grow to be much bigger, something which becomes even more intimidating given that they travel in groups.
Until this episode we had never seen them before in live-action, only previously appearing in animated show Star Wars Rebels as well as various novels and video games.
What Is The Connection To Ezra Bridger?
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The appearance of the Purrgils could indeed tease the return of fan-favourite character Ezra Bridger – a Jedi Padawan, freedom fighter, and revolutionary leader who has a long history in the animated series Star Wars Rebels.
We already know that the character’s live-action debut is forthcoming given that actor Eman Esfandi has been cast in the role for upcoming show Ahsoka, but maybe he could pop up in season three of The Mandalorian beforehand.
Bridger hasn’t been seen since in the world of Star Wars since he deployed a group of Purrgils in battle against the villainous Admiral Thrawn during a Rebels episode.
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The young hero urged the Purrgils to take the ship he and Thrawn were stuck on into hyperspace to an unknown location, which saved the planet of Lothal but left the pair missing for years.
Star Wars Rebels ended with his allies Sabine Wren and Ahsoka Tano teaming up for a rescue mission, setting out in search of Bridger, but they have so far had no luck.
This storyline is likely to be continued in upcoming show Ashoka, which will also feature the live-action debut of Wren, played by actor Natasha Liu Bordizzo.
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If anyone knows where Bridger is, it’s likely to be a Purrgil, hence this brief tease neatly sets up this next adventure.
Even if nothing comes from this Easter egg in The Mandalorian season three, it’s a nice tease that sets up the character’s introduction in Ahsoka.
The Mandalorian Season 3 airs every Wednesday on Disney+.
