It was previously reported that Grand Admiral Thrawn, a character featured in the "Heir of the Empire" novel by Timothy Zahn, will be appearing as a villain in "Star Wars Rebels" season 3, officially inserting him back into the "Star Wars" canon after the books were labeled non-canon entries bearing the "Legends" title. 

However, Thrawn will no longer be a villain pursuing Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) and his friends after the fall of the Empire. The books are no longer canon but "Star Wars Rebels" is and the latter takes place before "Star Wars: A New Hope," meaning Thrawn is now a villain who was more prominent before Luke took down the first Death Star.

Speaking to StarWars,com, the original author Timothy Zahn revealed that he had been consulted regarding the decision to bring the character back into the franchise's canon and into the show. Zahn had served as an advisor for the show's third season and is releasing a brand new novel, titled "Thrawn," which will tell the character's origins and will end right where "Star Wars Rebels" season 3 begins, ultimately tying the two together.

"I've thrown in a few bits and pieces. Nothing too blatant, just little Easter eggs for those who are familiar with my other books," he explained. "There will be an occasional brush with pre-established and familiar 'Star Wars' characters. You'll just have to wait to see which ones."

In a separate report from Coming Soon, series show runner and co-creator Dave Filoni revealed that they do have an idea where Thrawn's role will end and if he will survive the show's finale or not. Filoni also revealed that there is a targeted end for the show although there is the possibility of it intersecting with the events of the films.

"Star Wars Rebels" season 3 premieres this fall.