The Fate of Cut Lawquane: Surviving Order 66 and Imperial Rule

Introduction

What happened to Cut Lawquane during and after Order 66 remains a topic of intrigue among Star Wars fans. The animated series The Bad Batch provides key insights into Cut's journey post-Republic. This article delves into Cut's life, from his military service to his peaceful existence on Saleucami.

Clones without Inhibitor Chips

Cut Lawquane was a clone trooper who refused to adhere to the Galactic Empire's mandate to implant inhibitor chips. These chips were crucial for soldiers to remain loyal to the Empire, but Cut remained a free spirit. Without an inhibitor chip, he did not conform to the new regime and managed to evade their influence.

The Bad Batch and Cut's Escape

In The Bad Batch episode “Cut and Run,” Cut helps Rex and the Bad Batch evade Imperial forces. He also takes in the adoptive children, Shaeeah and Jek. Despite the threat of being exposed as a Republic deserter, Cut's actions demonstrate his democratic inclinations and his desire to protect the innocent and vulnerable.

Imperial Policies and Exile

Following Order 66, the new Imperial ruling regime introduced a policy requiring every traveler to possess chain codes. This measure aimed to track and control the movements of individuals. Cut, however, was unable to obtain these codes as they would have revealed his true identity as a Republic deserter. The Code 99 warriors - the Bad Batch and Omega - aid Cut by infiltrating an Imperial spaceport and obtaining stolen chain codes, enabling Cut to travel with his family offworld.

When Hunter insists that Omega stay with the Lawquanes, she chooses to remain with her comrades, highlighting the complex dynamics of loyalty and personal choices.

Life After the Clone Wars

Post-Clone Wars and the fall of the Republic, Cut Lawquane remains steadfast in his commitment to his family. In the years following the Battle of Endor, he continues to live a quiet and rural life on Saleucami. Cut had previously settled on this planet after the war, engaging in a simpler life as a farmer. He married Suu, a Twilek, and adopted her two children, Shaeeah and Jek, treating them as his own.

His act of adoption and his dedication to Rex following the Battle of Geonosis showcase Cut's compassionate and selfless nature. Cut developed a strong bond with Rex and continued to respect him even after Rex helped him protect his family from Commando droids. This trust and unwavering loyalty underscore Cut's human qualities amidst the chaos of the Republic's fall.

Post-Emperor: Saleucami and Beyond

It is reported that Cut chose to remain with his family on Saleucami long after the end of the Republic and even after the Battle of Endor, which marked the beginning of the end for Emperor Palpatine's Galactic Empire. Cut's life exemplifies the resilience and determination of individuals who choose to prioritize their families and values over relentless authority.

A quote from Glen Taffral, a resident of Saleucami who knew Cut Lawquane after the fall of the Republic, provides an insightful perspective on Cut's character. He notes Cut's priority on his family, a trait that remains evident throughout his life. Additionally, Pablo Hidalgo, a franchise expert, has confirmed on Twitter that Cut's two children were not biologically his, affirming the depth of his commitment to his adopted family.