How to watch Star Wars in order—even the shows

If you're settling in for a Star Wars marathon of galactic proportions, the order you watch everything in may matter. The post How to watch Star Wars in order—even the shows appeared first on Popular Science .

7 April 2026 at 08:00 am

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How to watch Star Wars in order—even the shows

Since the release of Star Wars (now titled *A New Hope*) in 1977, the expansive Star Wars universe has grown to include 11 movies, nine animated shows, five TV series, and a vast array of non-canon content such as video games, books, and miniseries. For fans embarking on a Star Wars marathon, determining the optimal viewing order can be daunting, especially when considering both the films and the shows. However, it's important to note that there isn't a single "correct" order, as the Star Wars saga offers multiple ways to immerse oneself in the galaxy far, far away.

One approach is to watch the Star Wars movies in the order they were released to theaters. This chronological viewing method allows fans to experience the series as it unfolded over decades. The original trilogy, spanning from 1977's *A New Hope* to 1983's *Return of the Jedi*, introduces iconic characters like Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Han Solo, and Chewbacca, setting the stage for the epic space opera. Following this, the prequel trilogy (1999's *The Phantom Menace*, 2002's *Attack of the Clones*, and 2005's *Revenge of the Sith*) delves into the backstory of the galaxy, exploring the rise and fall of the Jedi Order and the origins of Darth Vader. The sequel trilogy (2015's *The Force Awakens*, 2017's *The Last Jedi*, and 2019's *The Rise of Skywalker*) then concludes the saga, continuing the story of the Skywalker family and the ongoing struggle between light and dark.

Watching the movies in theatrical release order provides a nostalgic journey through the evolution of the Star Wars universe. While this approach doesn't necessarily offer a cohesive timeline, each trilogy stands on its own, offering complete arcs for key characters. The original trilogy's excitement and surprises are preserved, followed by the prequels' exploration of the galaxy's history, and culminating in the sequels' epic conclusion. This viewing method allows fans to appreciate the series' development over the years and witness its enduring appeal.

In addition to the films, Star Wars has also spawned numerous animated shows and TV series. For those looking to incorporate these into their viewing experience, it's essential to consider the chronological placement of each show within the Star Wars timeline. For example, the animated series *Star Wars: The Clone Wars* (2008-2020) is set during the prequel trilogy's time period and bridges the gap between *Attack of the Clones* and *Revenge of the Sith*. Similarly, the live-action series *The Mandalorian* (2019-present) and *The Book of Boba Fett* (2021) take place after *Return of the Jedi*, fitting into the timeline between the original and sequel trilogies.

When incorporating shows into a Star Wars marathon, fans have the flexibility to create a custom viewing order that suits their preferences. Some may choose to watch the films first and then explore the shows, while others might intersperse the shows throughout the film viewing experience. Regardless of the chosen method, the Star Wars universe remains a rich and expansive tapestry of stories, characters, and lore, inviting fans to delve deeper into its intricate details.

Ultimately, the key to enjoying Star Wars in order lies in finding a viewing sequence that resonates personally. Whether following the theatrical release order of the films, weaving in shows at strategic points, or crafting a unique path through the galaxy, the Star Wars saga offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. By immersing oneself in this iconic universe, fans can reconnect with familiar favorites or discover new facets of a beloved story that has captivated generations.

Source: Popular Science

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