Baze Malbus, a prominent character in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, is remembered for his courage, loyalty, and devotion to his friend Chirrut Îmwe. As one of the key figures in the mission to steal the Death Star plans, Baze played a crucial role in the Rebel Alliance’s fight against the Galactic Empire. But how did Baze Malbus die? In this article, we’ll explore his character, his relationship with Chirrut, and the events that led to his death in one of the most emotional moments of the Star Wars saga.
Who Was Baze Malbus?
Before discussing how Baze Malbus died, it’s important to understand who he was and why he stood out among the ensemble of characters in Rogue One. Baze was a warrior, once a devoted Guardian of the Whills, a group tasked with protecting the ancient temple on the planet Jedha. His primary responsibility was to protect the Kyber crystals, the sacred relics that powered Jedi lightsabers and, later, the Death Star’s superweapon.
Baze was known for his remarkable combat skills, always armed with his powerful heavy repeater cannon. Though a former believer in the Force, Baze had grown disillusioned over time, especially after the rise of the Empire. Despite his cynicism, Baze remained loyal to his closest friend, Chirrut Îmwe, a blind monk with an unwavering faith in the Force.
Their bond, rooted in mutual respect and shared experiences, gave Rogue One one of its most heartwarming dynamics. While Chirrut believed deeply in the Force and its influence, Baze was more of a realist, relying on his brute strength and military training to get through tough situations. However, as the movie progresses, we see that Baze’s belief in the Force, though hidden, was still very much alive.
Baze Malbus’s Role in Rogue One
Baze, along with Chirrut, played an instrumental role in helping Jyn Erso and the rest of the Rebel team on their mission to steal the Death Star plans. Despite his initial reluctance to join the mission, Baze’s loyalty to Chirrut and his desire to fight back against the Empire drove him to commit fully to the cause.
As part of the Rogue One squad, Baze and his allies infiltrated the heavily fortified Imperial base on the tropical planet of Scarif. Their mission was simple yet dangerous: retrieve the Death Star plans and transmit them to the Rebel fleet. The mission was a suicide run from the start, with the team knowing full well that they might not make it out alive.
How Did Baze Malbus Die?
So, how did Baze Malbus die? Baze’s death came during the climactic battle on Scarif, where the Rebel forces launched their assault on the Imperial base. Baze and his comrades fought valiantly to achieve their objective, facing overwhelming odds as Imperial stormtroopers and death troopers rained fire down on them. Despite the chaos and danger, Baze’s focus never wavered.
The pivotal moment that led to Baze’s death came after his closest friend, Chirrut Îmwe, was killed. Chirrut, demonstrating his deep faith in the Force, walked through a barrage of enemy fire to activate the master switch needed to transmit the Death Star plans. Though Chirrut succeeded, he was mortally wounded in the process. Baze rushed to his side, devastated by the loss of his friend.
In his final moments, Baze’s grief was palpable, but it also ignited a fierce determination within him. Fueled by his desire to honor Chirrut and ensure that their mission succeeded, Baze took on a group of advancing Imperial forces alone. Armed with his heavy blaster, he unleashed a powerful and relentless attack, taking down numerous stormtroopers in a final stand.
Baze fought with everything he had, but in the end, he was struck by an enemy grenade. Even as he fell, Baze maintained his warrior spirit, looking to the skies with Chirrut’s final words echoing in his mind: “I am one with the Force, and the Force is with me.” In those last moments, Baze seemed to find peace, reconnecting with the faith he had long abandoned. His death was both tragic and heroic, a fitting end for a character defined by loyalty, strength, and quiet belief.
The Symbolism Behind Baze Malbus’s Death
Baze’s death carries significant symbolism, particularly in relation to his relationship with Chirrut and his belief in the Force. Throughout Rogue One, Baze appears as a skeptic, a man hardened by war and loss, who no longer puts his faith in higher powers. However, his deep connection to Chirrut, who constantly reminded him of the power of the Force, shows that Baze’s disbelief was more complex than it seemed.
By the time of his death, Baze’s final words and actions show that he had not completely lost his faith. His willingness to continue fighting, even after Chirrut’s death, speaks to the enduring power of hope and belief, even in the face of overwhelming odds. Baze’s ultimate sacrifice highlights the theme of Rogue One: ordinary people doing extraordinary things for the greater good, even at great personal cost.
Fans’ Reactions: Mourning a Hero
Baze Malbus’s death, along with the deaths of the entire Rogue One team, left a profound impact on Star Wars fans. While many expected a grim ending, the way each character met their fate, including Baze, was both heart-wrenching and heroic. Baze’s final stand, fighting for the memory of his friend and the success of their mission, resonated deeply with audiences.
Fans appreciated Baze’s complexity as a character. Though a warrior hardened by years of conflict, his deep loyalty to Chirrut and his ultimate return to faith gave him a depth that many found relatable and touching.
Conclusion: How Did Baze Malbus Die?
So, how did Baze Malbus die? Baze died during the battle on Scarif, making a heroic last stand against the Empire’s forces after his best friend, Chirrut Îmwe, was killed. Though a skeptical warrior, Baze found peace in his final moments, embracing Chirrut’s belief in the Force as he fought for the success of the mission. His death, like those of the other members of Rogue One, was a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made in the name of hope and freedom.
