Celebrity cameos in major properties are getting harder to sneak by fans nowadays. But when a celebrity fav suddenly pops up, there’s no more exciting feeling. And that’s why we love Danny Trejo’s surprise Star Wars appearance in episode three of The Book of Boba Fett so much. Danny Trejo makes his Star Wars debut playing a rancor trainer. And though it’s only a cameo (for now), Trejo’s appearance actually helps shed light on one of Star Wars’ iconic creatures, rancors.
We have to say, Trejo’s appearance is nothing short of epic. But then, could Danny Trejo plus Star Wars be anything but? No chance. The man couldn’t stop being epic if he tried. Especially when his epicness also has the element of surprise. Although, thinking back on it, we probably should have known Trejo might guest star on The Book of Boba Fett. Robert Rodriguez, Trejo’s long-time collaborator, serves as an executive producer and director on the show. Still, you can’t believe it until you see it.
And we can’t stop looking. Trejo brings his signature gruff, but probably soft, energy to the table. For now, the credits refer to Trejo as “Rancor Keeper.” But we feel he may get a name sooner rather than later. And his appearance isn’t just to thrill fans (though we are thrilled.) Trejo brings with him some new information about Star Wars‘ rancor species.
The rancor species is, of course, best known for their appearance in Star Wars: Return of the Jedi. In this famous sequence, Luke confronts Jabba the Hutt after Leia fails to rescue Han Solo’s frozen form. But the sneaky foe drops Luke into his rancor pit, leaving our hero to face the creature, Pateesa. Luke, of course, prevails. However, in what seemed unusual at the time, the rancor’s keeper dissolved into tears at the loss of Pateesa.
Since then, we’ve learned that rancors aren’t deadly by nature. We’ve seen this in Star Wars: The Clone Wars. To become fighters, they must be trained in that direction. However, The Book of Boba Fett crystallizes that concept even more intensely. And helps us to understand the depth of anguish the Return of the Jedi rancor keeper must have felt.
Trejo’s character explains that the rancors are emotionally complex creatures. But, unless they feel threatened, the species remains quite peaceful. The rancor in The Book of Boba Fett even likes getting pet. And, most importantly, they actually imprint on the first human they see. An unparalleled connection. They can also become very loving and form strong bonds with their owners.
To Boba Fett’s delight, he also learns that the witches of Dathomir may have ridden rancors at one time. And immediately, he too wants to learn to ride his rancor. We can see how this plays out. Boba Fett doesn’t get to ride the rancor in this episode, but we feel confident it will happen before the series finishes… And also why we feel optimistic Danny Trejo’s “Rancor Trainer” will return to The Book of Boba Fett.
A gift for you.
— The Book of Boba Fett (@bobafett) January 17, 2022
Check out these new character posters from Chapter Three of #TheBookofBobaFett, now streaming on @DisneyPlus. pic.twitter.com/hnsUe2wTp9
Rancor and trainer have a special bond, after all. And it’s an odd couple situation between rancor, trainer, and owner. We can’t wait to see how this plays out. But one thing feels certain, rancors are striking back. We could not feel happier that this creature will get its day in the sun. And all the pets it deserves. Just look at those eyes.