Andor delivers a grounded political thriller focused on rebellion, espionage, surveillance and difficult choices under Imperial rule.
The Mandalorian combines action, humour, emotion and space-western storytelling through Din Djarin and Grogu’s journey.
Ahsoka, Skeleton Crew and Obi-Wan Kenobi offer different adventures, from animated connections to family-friendly fun and nostalgia.
The ‘Star Wars’ universe expanded far beyond the big-screen movies. Over the past few years, Disney+ turned the franchise into a sprawling collection of live-action shows, with stories ranging from political rebellion and Jedi adventures to space westerns and coming-of-age journeys.
However, with so many options available, deciding where to start can be tricky. If you want to spend your time in a galaxy far, far away, these five live-action series are among the best places to begin.
If you want to see ‘Star Wars’ in a completely different light, ‘Andor’ should be at the top of your list.
Set before ‘Rogue One,’ the series follows Cassian Andor as he gradually becomes part of the growing rebellion against the Empire. Instead of relying heavily on lightsaber battles and familiar characters, ‘Andor’ focuses on espionage, politics, surveillance and the difficult choices people make while fighting an oppressive regime.
The result is a tense and surprisingly grounded drama that feels closer to a political thriller than a traditional Star Wars adventure. Its second and final season arrived in 2025, bringing Cassian’s story closer to the events of ‘Rogue One.’
For many viewers, ‘The Mandalorian’ is still the easiest way to get into modern ‘Star Wars’ television.
The story follows ‘Din Djarin,’ a bounty hunter and Mandalorian who finds himself responsible for protecting Grogu, the adorable Force-sensitive character better known to many fans as Baby Yoda.
What makes the show work is its mix of action, humour, mystery and emotion. It also has the feel of a classic space western, with Din travelling from one dangerous world to another while slowly becoming more attached to Grogu.
Even if you aren't deeply familiar with Star Wars lore, the series is relatively easy to follow and offers plenty of spectacle.
‘Ahsoka’ is a particularly rewarding watch for longtime ‘Star Wars’ fans.
Rosario Dawson plays Ahsoka Tano, a former Jedi who first appeared in animated form before making the jump to live action. The series continues several storylines from ‘The Clone Wars’ and ‘Star Wars Rebels,’ while introducing characters and conflicts that connect different corners of the franchise.
The return of Grand Admiral Thrawn is another major reason to watch. However, viewers unfamiliar with the animated shows may find some of the references and relationships difficult to appreciate fully. Season 2 is scheduled to premiere on January 20, 2027.
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Looking for something a little lighter? ‘Skeleton Crew’ might be the perfect choice.
The series follows four children who accidentally become lost in the enormous ‘Star Wars’ galaxy and embark on a journey to find their way home. Jude Law plays a mysterious character who becomes involved in their adventure.
The show has a charming coming-of-age feel, with plenty of strange planets, aliens, pirates and unexpected dangers along the way. It also captures some of the adventurous spirit that made older Star Wars stories so appealing to younger audiences.
For fans who grew up with the prequel trilogy, ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’ carries plenty of nostalgia.
Ewan McGregor returns as the legendary Jedi Master, with the story taking place between ‘Revenge of the Sith’ and ‘A New Hope. Obi-Wan’ is living in hiding after the Jedi Order falls, but circumstances eventually force him to leave his quiet existence behind.
The series also brings back Hayden Christensen as Darth Vader, giving fans another chapter in the complicated relationship between Obi-Wan and his former apprentice, Anakin Skywalker.
It may not be as consistently praised as Andor, but the nostalgia, performances and major character moments make it worthwhile for prequel-era fans.
Why watch it: Ewan McGregor, Darth Vader and one of the franchise's most important relationships.
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It really depends on what you want from ‘Star Wars.’ ‘Andor’ is the best pick if you prefer serious, character-driven storytelling, while The Mandalorian is the safest choice for straightforward Star Wars adventure.
If you've watched ‘The Clone Wars’ or ‘Rebels,’ ‘Ahsoka’ deserves a place near the top of your list. ‘Skeleton Crew’ is ideal for a lighter family watch, while ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi ‘is especially appealing to fans of the prequel trilogy. For most viewers, though, ‘Andor’ and ‘The Mandalorian’ are the two best places to start.
Which Star Wars live-action series should you watch first?
If you’re new to ‘Star Wars,’ ‘The Mandalorian’ is probably the easiest place to start. It offers action, humour, emotion and a simple story built around Din Djarin and Grogu. For something more serious and layered, Andor is an excellent choice.
Is Andor worth watching if you are new to Star Wars?
Absolutely. ‘Andor’ is easy to follow even if you don’t know every corner of the ‘Star Wars’ universe. Instead of focusing on lightsabers and Jedi, it explores rebellion, politics, espionage and ordinary people making difficult choices under Imperial rule.
Do you need to watch The Clone Wars before Ahsoka?
You can watch ‘Ahsoka’ without seeing the animated shows, but watching ‘The Clone Wars’ and ‘Star Wars Rebels’ first will make it much more rewarding. Several characters, relationships and storylines directly connect to events from those series.
Is The Mandalorian good for casual Star Wars fans?
Yes, especially if you want something entertaining without needing to know a huge amount of ‘Star Wars’ history. The series mixes space-western action with humour and emotion, while the relationship between Din Djarin and Grogu keeps the story engaging.
Is Obi-Wan Kenobi worth watching for prequel fans?
Definitely. If you grew up with the prequel trilogy, ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’ brings plenty of nostalgia. Ewan McGregor returns as Obi-Wan, while Hayden Christensen returns as Darth Vader, giving fans another look at their complicated connection.