Why Jabba the Hutt Wasn't In Solo: A Star Wars Story

Warning: This post contains SPOILERS for Solo: A Star Wars Story

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Ron Howard explains why Jabba the Hutt wasn't included in biggest fan-service moment and cameo, it went in an unexpected way following plenty of set up for the appearance of one giant slimy mob boss.

In the closing moments of Solo, Qi'ra helped bring Darth Maul back to the big screen. Using him as the leader of Crimson Dawn was the film's biggest secret, so much so that the Kasdans didn't even include who this character was going to be in the script. There were a few paths the film could've ultimately went down, and now director Ron Howard is saying why it wasn't Jabba.

Howard lobbied for) and what other directions the film could've taken. Howard confirmed that Jabba was in consideration, but explained why they went in another direction.

Jabba was on the list, but they kind of knew they didn't want to go that way because it would be sort of funny, and maybe a little bit too much like sequel-baiting.

Using Maul was certainly the more shocking way to go, but also a bit more confusing to the average fan. Hardcore fans of Star Wars canon know that Maul survived his apparent death in The Phantom Menace and has had adventures in The Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels. However, those who aren't up to date with animated shows or other supplemental materials have found Maul's appearance confusing and raised questions over the film's timeline. Jabba would've likely been a less confusing choice.

Howard's explanation for not going with Jabba though doesn't make complete sense. The placement and execution of Maul's appearance feels very much like sequel bait, and if Solo somehow gets a sequel his place in the underground world would surely be explored. Jabba is no different. In fact, with even with his own movie.