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Who is the big girl Mandalorian?

Published in The Mandalorian Characters 3 mins read

While there isn't a character officially known as 'the big girl Mandalorian' within the Star Wars canon, the question most likely refers to Cara Dune, a powerful and physically imposing ally of Din Djarin in The Mandalorian series. It's important to clarify that Cara Dune is not a Mandalorian herself, but a formidable former shock trooper of the Rebel Alliance.

Cara Dune: A Closer Look

Carasynthia "Cara" Dune is a prominent and fan-favorite character introduced in The Mandalorian live-action series. Known for her exceptional combat skills, imposing physical presence, and unwavering loyalty, she quickly becomes an essential companion to the titular Mandalorian.

  • Portrayal: Cara Dune is portrayed by Gina Carano, a former mixed martial artist. Her background in professional combat sports greatly contributes to the character's believable strength and physicality, leading to the perception of her as a "big girl."
  • Background: Before becoming a mercenary and later a marshal, Cara Dune served as a shock trooper for the Rebel Alliance, a highly trained and elite soldier. This background explains her combat expertise and resilient nature.
  • Role in The Mandalorian: She initially operates as an independent mercenary on various worlds before crossing paths with Din Djarin. Over time, she becomes a trusted ally, assisting him on dangerous missions and eventually settling on Nevarro as a Marshal.

Here's a summary of key information about Cara Dune:

Attribute Description
Full Name Carasynthia Dune
Portrayed By Gina Carano
Primary Roles Marshal of Nevarro (former), Mercenary (former)
Former Service Rebel Alliance Shock Trooper
Affiliation Ally of Din Djarin (The Mandalorian)

Why the Misconception?

Cara Dune's close association with Din Djarin, her use of armor, and her significant combat contributions in the series often lead some viewers to mistakenly assume she is a Mandalorian. She frequently fights alongside Din Djarin and other Mandalorians, participating in their battles and sometimes even wearing armor that might appear similar to standard Star Wars combat attire, though it is distinctly not traditional Mandalorian beskar armor.

Key Differences from a Mandalorian

Despite her formidable warrior status and strong connection to the show's main character, Cara Dune does not fit the definition of a Mandalorian:

  • Creed and Culture: She does not adhere to "The Way" or any of the strict creeds and traditions central to Mandalorian culture. Her loyalties lie with the causes she believes in and her friends, not a specific Mandalorian sect.
  • Armor: While she wears combat armor, it is standard military-grade protection and not crafted from beskar, the rare and highly resilient metal unique to Mandalorian armor.
  • Origin: She is not from Mandalore, a Mandalorian covert, or any of the known Mandalorian clans. Her origins are tied to Alderaan and her service in the Rebel Alliance.

In conclusion, Cara Dune is a powerful and significant female character in The Mandalorian, and her impressive physique and fighting prowess might be what the term "big girl" refers to. However, she is a former Rebel shock trooper and mercenary, not a Mandalorian.