11 Parsecs Temple Archives -
Zam Wesell was a female Clawdite bounty hunter hailing from the planet Zolan. Introduced in the 2002 film, Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones, she was known for her shapeshifting abilities, which she used to great effect in her line of work. As a Clawdite, she could imitate a wide range of appearances to aid her in her missions as an assassin, infiltrator, and spy.
Originally trained as a Mabari Knight by the order known as the Mabari, Zam Wesell fell in line with the bounty hunting life after the downfall of the order. Besides her shapeshifting qualities, Zam was also skilled in the use of various weapons and hand-to-hand combat. Her expertise in sniping, piloting, and explosives made her a sought-after bounty hunter, ultimately forming an uneasy partnership with the renowned bounty hunter Jango Fett.
Jango Fett and Zam Wesell were hired by the Sith Lord Darth Tyranus (aka Count Dooku) to assassinate Senator Padmé Amidala. Zam made two attempts on Amidala's life: first, by planting explosives in the Senator's starship, and later, by releasing deadly Kouhun centipede-creatures into her bedroom. Alas, both attempts were foiled by Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi and his Padawan, Anakin Skywalker.
In a chase sequence through the city of Coruscant, Zam tried to flee from the pursuing Jedi duo, making use of her speeder and various weapons to deter them. Despite her best efforts, Zam was ultimately apprehended by the two Jedi after her speeder crash-landed on a busy street. Having failed her mission, Jango Fett decided to silence her using a Kaminoan Saberdart to prevent her from revealing his connection to the assassination plot.
Before her untimely death, Zam Wesell played an important part in setting up the complex web of intrigue that underpinned the events of the prequel trilogy. Her presence showcased the morally ambiguous nature of bounty hunters in the Star Wars universe, as well as the role such characters played in the wider conflicts at play.
Zam Wesell's limited appearances in the Star Wars canon - featuring primarily in Attack of the Clones - have left her rather enigmatic. Nonetheless, her character has found a lasting appeal among fans who appreciate her unique look, interesting abilities, and significance in the broader Star Wars narrative.
Her story has been expanded upon in various non-canon Star Wars tales, but her overall legacy as a shapeshifter, a skilled warrior, and an instrument in the larger tapestry of Star Wars history remains secure.
Similar Characters: Ben Quadinaros, Sebulba, Balanhai Savit
Mentions on Podcast Episodes:
42. - (21 BBY) Forces of Destiny S2 Episode 2 and Clone Wars - Heroes on Both Sides
42. - (21 BBY) Forces of Destiny S2 Episode 2 and Clone Wars - Heroes on Both Sides