The Acolyte Episode 5 features Kylo Ren’s reference, which Leslye Headland confirmed is there for a purpose.

The Acolyte continues to make a buzz on the Internet, but this time, it is slightly different. As Episode 5 has unraveled some unexpected things, many secrets are yet to be unsealed. One such secret possibly links to Daisy Ridley’s Star Wars sequels.

A still from The Acolyte | Lucaslfilm, Disney

Although the reference is quite small, show creator Leslye Headland has confirmed that it serves a great purpose ahead, which makes the episode more intriguing.

The Acolyte Episode 5 Makes Kylo Ren Reference

The Acolyte is set during the end of the High Republic, exploring the shadowy beginnings of Sith powers in the galaxy. As the series delves deep into the dark side of the Force, many mysteries and secrets have long intrigued fans.

However, Episode 5, titled Night, goes a step beyond, hinting at a possible reference to Kylo Ren, one of the most iconic characters from Daisy Ridley’s Star Wars sequel trilogy.

The series wasted no time in dropping major reveals in that episode, particularly unmasking the mysterious Sith, who engages in an intense battle with the group that was sent after him, bringing one of the best lightsaber duels in the saga.

He ruthlessly killed seven of the eight Jedi sent to Khofar, with the only surviving character being Master Sol. In a predictable twist, the show unmasks the Sith, who turns out to be Qimir, officially named the Stranger, played by Manny Jacinto.

Manny Jacinto in The Acolyte / Lucasfilm

At the end of the episode, Qimir aka Sith Lord takes Osha as his student, before he heals her wound with the Force. As he used the ability, Kylo Ren’s theme from the sequel trilogy plays in the background, which is not a coincidence.

In a recent interview with Inverse, show creator Leslye Headland addressed the same, confirming its connection while remaining tight-lipped on what it possibly hints at.

Ah, wish I could. It is there on purpose, but I can’t tell you why, and I can’t go into what it is. But you shall see.

Although the creator didn’t slip any details that could possibly link to the new sequel trilogy with the show, it confirms one thing – more surprises are yet to come.

Is Qimir Related to Kylo Ren?

Adam Driver as Kylo Ren in a still from the Star Wars franchise | Lucasfilm

While avid fans are already familiar with Kylo Ren, those unversed with the character will get to know him through the Star Wars sequel trilogy. Kylo Ren, born Ben Solo and portrayed by Adam Driver, is a central character marked by his internal conflict and complex motivations between the light and dark sides of the Force.

From getting seduced to the dark side and influenced by Supreme Leader Snoke, the puppet of Emperor Palpatine, he completely embodies the dark nature, becoming the leader of the Knights of Ren.

However, the character gets his redemption arc in The Rise of Skywalker (2019) where he sacrifices his life to save Rey, bringing the character to a conclusion.

Given that Ren’s involvement in the sequel trilogy has been explored, Ren’s recent theme music in the show has led to a possible theory that Qimir may be part of the Knights of Ren (the companions of the Driver’s character).

It is worth noting that Qimir’s mask is quite reminiscent of Kylo Ren’s in the saga, which further hints at something big. Although the possibility could lead to anything, it will be intriguing to watch how this reference would affect the sci-fi lore going forward.

The Acolyte is available for streaming on Disney+.