The Star Wars universe has started adding new chapters – the first of which is Star Wars Rebels, the new animated series on Disney XD. Rebels already premiered its hour-long special “Spark of Rebellion” to mostly positive reviews and solid ratings (read our recap of the show), but it seems there will be even more surprises in store – big ones.

While the main series kicks off on Monday, October 13th (9/8c), the “Spark of Rebellion” special will be re-aired on ABC on October 26th (9/8c), giving Rebels primetime network opportunity to build on the 6.5 million viewers who already caught the series on cable. In what is sure to melt the minds of hardcore fans everywhere, ABC’s re-airing of “Spark of Rebellion” will also come in a special edition – with an additional scene featuring none other than James Earl Jones returning to voice Darth Vader.


Cinemablend shared the following quote from Clone Wars showrunner Dan Filoni, who is heading up Rebels alongside X-Men: Days of Future Past writer, Simon Kinberg:

“We wanted to do something special for the ABC broadcast. 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.”

James Earl Jones Darth Vader Star Wars Rebels 620x370 Star Wars Rebels Bringing Back James Earl Jones to Voice Darth Vader
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The real joy of both Clone Wars and this new Rebels series is seeing classic Star Wars characters (and actors) return – and return in proper fashion, with deeper stories and insight into their personalities and history. There are a some fun references and appearances already in “Spark of Rebellion” - so keep your ears open when you watch!

As for James Earl Jones; with rumors that new films like Star Wars Episode VII or spinoff films all rumored to possibly be revisiting classic franchise characters, there’s a wide open opportunity for Jones to supply his trademark baritone voice and make a lot of fans happy. But suffice to say: at this point in his career (age 83) whatever he chooses to do or not do is his to decide at his leisure; and an honor to whatever project he lends his presence.

…Maybe if he sees overwhelming fan love from this Rebels gig?

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NEXT: Star Wars Rebels Battle Clip & New Lightsaber

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Star Wars Rebels premieres its main series on Monday, October 13th @ 9/8c on Disney XD. The “Spark of Rebellion” special edition with James Earl Jones as Darth Vader airs on October 26th @ 9/8c on ABC.