Avatar: The Last Airbender, known as ATLA, is an American animated series created by Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko. It’s set in a world where people can manipulate the elements through bending, with the Avatar maintaining harmony. The story follows Aang, the last Air Nomad, and his friends Katara, Sokka, and Toph as they aim to end the Fire Nation’s war. It also delves into the journey of Zuko, the exiled prince seeking redemption. The show combines anime and American cartoon styles, drawing heavily from Chinese culture and other influences.
Avatar: The Last Airbender received critical acclaim for its characters, cultural references, art direction, voice acting, soundtrack, humor, and themes, tackling topics rarely explored in youth entertainment such as war, genocide, and imperialism. It garnered numerous awards including five Annie Awards, a Genesis Award, a Primetime Emmy Award, a Kids’ Choice Award, and a Peabody Award. Regarded by many as one of the greatest animated series, it aired on Nickelodeon for three seasons from February 2005 to July 2008. The franchise has expanded with comics, novels, sequels, a live-action film, and a remake series for Netflix. The complete series was released on Blu-ray in June 2018 and made available on streaming platforms like Netflix, Paramount+, and Amazon Prime Video.
It’s solid entertainment: fast-moving, action-packed, with decent fight scenes, and some appealing performances, all done on a generous Netflix budget.” This succinct assessment captures the essence of the series, highlighting its strengths in pacing, action, performance, and production value. With a platform like Netflix backing the project, viewers can expect a visually stunning and immersive experience that delivers thrills and excitement in abundance. Whether it’s the adrenaline-pumping fight sequences or the standout performances from the cast, the series offers a compelling blend of spectacle and storytelling that keeps audiences engaged from start to finish.
Table of Contents
Series overview
Setting
“Avatar: The Last Airbender” unfolds in a world divided into four nations: the Water Tribes, Earth Kingdom, Fire Nation, and Air Nomads, each inhabited by benders who can manipulate their corresponding element using martial arts-inspired gestures. The Avatar, possessing the ability to bend all four elements, serves as a global mediator, reincarnating in a cyclical order to maintain balance and harmony. Through the Avatar State, they access the collective knowledge of past Avatars, but their demise in this state would disrupt the reincarnation cycle, leading to the end of the Avatar.
Synopsis
A century ago, a fearful young Avatar Aang, overwhelmed by his duties, fled his home and became trapped in an iceberg with his sky bison, Appa. Meanwhile, Fire Lord Sozin initiated a world war, targeting the Air Nomads in search of the Avatar. This genocide coincided with the arrival of a comet, empowering firebenders. A hundred years later, siblings Katara and Sokka, from the Southern Water Tribe, stumble upon and awaken Aang.
In season one, Aang, Katara, and Sokka journey to the Northern Water Tribe for Aang’s waterbending training and to prepare for battling the Fire Nation. Prince Zuko, banished by Fire Lord Ozai, pursues them with his uncle Iroh to capture the Avatar and redeem himself. They’re also chased by Admiral Zhao, vying for Ozai’s favor. During an attack on the Northern Water Tribe, Zhao kills the moon spirit, prompting Princess Yue’s sacrifice to restore it. Aang repels the enemy fleet, averting disaster.
In the second season, Aang trains in earthbending under Toph Beifong, a gifted twelve-year-old who is blind. Meanwhile, Zuko and Iroh, now fugitives, seek refuge in the Earth Kingdom, eventually settling in Ba Sing Se. Both groups are pursued by Azula, Zuko’s formidable younger sister. Aang’s party heads to Ba Sing Se to rally support from the Earth King for a planned attack on the Fire Nation during an upcoming solar eclipse, when firebenders will be powerless. However, Azula orchestrates a coup, seizing control of the capital, with Zuko ultimately siding with her. Aang is gravely injured by Azula but is revived by Katara.
In the third season, Aang and his allies launch an invasion of the Fire Nation capital during the solar eclipse but are compelled to retreat. Zuko forsakes his allegiance to the Fire Nation to join Aang and instruct him in firebending. Aang, guided by his monk upbringing, grapples with the notion of having to end Ozai’s life to stop the war. When Sozin’s comet reappears, Aang confronts Ozai and uses his Avatar powers to deprive him of his firebending abilities. Meanwhile, Aang’s companions liberate Ba Sing Se, dismantle the Fire Nation airship fleet, and apprehend Azula. Zuko ascends to the throne as the new Fire Lord, heralding the end of the war.
Episodes
The series comprises sixty-one episodes, with its first hour-long premiere airing on February 21, 2005, on Nickelodeon. It concluded with a two-hour television movie broadcast on July 19, 2008. Each season, referred to as a “book,” is named after one of the elements Aang must master: Water, Earth, and Fire. The first two seasons consist of twenty episodes each, while the third season has twenty-one. The complete series is available on DVD in regions 1, 2, and 4.
As of May 2020, the entire series is accessible on Netflix in the United States. It quickly became the most popular show on U.S. Netflix, despite not being prominently featured on the main page. Notably, it set a new record for the longest consecutive appearance on Netflix’s daily top ten list, maintaining a spot for 60 straight days. In June 2020, the series also became available on Paramount+ (formerly CBS All Access), and later on Amazon Prime Video in January 2021.
| Book | Name | Episodes | Originally aired | |
| First aired | Last aired | |||
| 1 | Water | 20 | February 21, 2005 | December 2, 2005 |
| 2 | Earth | 20 | March 17, 2006 | December 1, 2006 |
| 3 | Fire | 21 | September 21, 2007 | July 19, 2008 |
Development
Conception and production
“Avatar: The Last Airbender” was co-created and produced by Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko at Nickelodeon Animation Studios in Burbank, California. The animation was primarily outsourced to South Korean studios JM Animation, DR Movie, and MOI Animation. According to Konietzko, the concept for the series emerged in early 2001 when he transformed an old sketch of a balding, middle-aged man into a child herding bison in the sky. He shared this idea with DiMartino, who coincidentally was watching a documentary about explorers stranded at the South Pole at the time.
Konietzko described their early concept development as envisioning “an air guy along with these water people trapped in a snowy wasteland … and maybe some fire people are pressing down on them.” Two weeks later, they successfully pitched the idea to Nickelodeon vice-president and executive producer Eric Coleman.
The series was first introduced to the public through a teaser reel at Comic-Con 2004 and premiered on February 21, 2005.
In an interview, Konietzko explained, “Mike and I were really interested in other epic ‘Legends & Lore’ properties, like Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings, but we knew that we wanted to take a different approach to that type of genre. Our love for Japanese anime, Hong Kong action and kung fu cinema, yoga, and Eastern philosophies led us to the initial inspiration for Avatar: The Last Airbender.”
Originally planned for three seasons, the idea of a fourth season arose when Nickelodeon inquired about it. However, plans were sidelined when Konietzko and DiMartino joined M. Night Shyamalan’s film project. Shyamalan suggested a fourth season, but Konietzko and DiMartino opted to focus on the live-action film instead. They deny ever considering a fourth season themselves or with Nickelodeon.
Pilot
In 2003, a pilot episode was created, animated by Tin House, Inc., written by Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko, and directed by Dave Filoni. Mitchel Musso initially voiced Aang but was later replaced by Zach Tyler Eisen. The episode follows Sokka and his sister Kya (later renamed Katara) as they seek masters for Aang, the Avatar, while evading Prince Zuko of the Fire Nation, who aims to capture Aang.
The unaired pilot episode was first released as an extra in the NTSC season 1 DVD box set, but not included in PAL regions. It features commentary from the creators, which cannot be disabled on the DVD set. On June 14, 2010, the episode was made available with and without commentary for the first time on the iTunes Store.
In 2020, the pilot was streamed on Twitch.
Influences
The series draws extensively from East Asian art and mythology for its universe. Cultural consultants Edwin Zane and calligrapher Siu-Leung Lee assisted with its art direction and settings. Character designs are influenced by Chinese art and history, Hinduism, Taoism, Buddhism, and Yoga. Jeremy Zuckerman and Benjamin Wynn crafted the music and sound design, utilizing instruments like the guzheng, pipa, and duduk to match the show’s Asia-influenced setting. Fictitious locations are based on real sites in Asia, such as the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China inspiring Ba Sing Se, and Water Tribe locations drawing from Inuit and Sireniki cultures. Initially, Fire Nation designs were rooted in Japanese culture but were later reimagined to be more broadly inspired, with the final design adopting a Chinese style for clothing and architecture. For example, the Fire Temple was modeled after the Yellow Crane Tower, with its flame-like architectural elements reflecting the Fire Nation’s aesthetic.
The bending gestures in the series are based on Chinese martial arts, with Sifu Kisu of the Harmonious Fist Chinese Athletic Association consulting on the choreography. Each bending style corresponds to a specific element and draws from different martial arts: waterbending from tai chi, earthbending from Hung Gar, firebending from Northern Shaolin, and airbending from Bagua. Toph’s unique fighting style, influenced by Chu Gar Southern Praying Mantis, reflects her blindness. Asian cinema inspired the presentation of these martial arts in the series.
Themes
The series tackles numerous themes uncommon in youth entertainment, such as war, genocide, imperialism, colonialism, totalitarianism, gender discrimination, female empowerment, marginalization, oppression, spirituality, and philosophical inquiries into fate, destiny, and free will.
The show unfolds amidst an imperialistic war instigated by the Fire Nation, with its effects depicted through the lens of ordinary people—the oppressed Earth Kingdom citizens and indoctrinated Fire Nation schoolchildren—to illustrate how war impacts everyone. Despite portraying the Fire Nation as the primary aggressor, the series also highlights the systemic inequality in Ba Sing Se and the sinister activities of its secret police, illustrating the corrupting influence of power and the complexities of morality. The early introduction of genocide, as seen when Aang visits his former home in the Southern Air Temple, elicits a range of emotions, from anger to sorrow, showcasing the devastating consequences of violence.
Zuko’s character arc, particularly his relationship with his father and Uncle Iroh, serves as the series’ primary redemption narrative and embodies its message that destiny can be altered. In season two, Zuko grapples with conforming to his father’s expectations, but Uncle Iroh challenges him to question his own desires and identity.
The show also features a diverse cast to address issues of marginalization. Characters like Toph, who is blind, and Teo, who is paraplegic, demonstrate resilience in overcoming physical and societal barriers. Similarly, female characters like Katara encounter sexism but assert their abilities and worth. Sokka’s evolution from dismissing the all-female Kyoshi Warriors to respecting their skills underscores the importance of embracing individuality over societal norms, as noted by Kirk Hamilton of Kotaku.
Reception
Ratings
Avatar: The Last Airbender debuted as the highest-rated animated TV series in its demographic, with an average of 1.1 million viewers per episode. Its highest-rated episode drew 5.6 million viewers and consistently performed well beyond its target audience of 6-to-11-year-olds. A one-hour special, “The Secret of the Fire Nation,” comprising the episodes “The Serpent’s Pass” and “The Drill,” aired on September 15, 2006, attracting 4.1 million viewers and ranking fifth in cable television ratings for the week according to Nielsen. By 2007, the series was syndicated to over 105 countries and ranked as one of Nickelodeon’s top-rated programs, topping the charts in countries like Germany, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Colombia.
The four-part series finale, “Sozin’s Comet,” recorded the highest ratings of the series, drawing an average of 5.6 million viewers during its initial airing, a significant increase compared to Nickelodeon’s average viewership at that time. It became the most-viewed program among the under-14 demographic during the week of July 14. The finale’s popularity was also evident online, with the Rise of the Phoenix King game on Nick.com amassing almost 815,000 game plays within three days.
Critical Response
Avatar: The Last Airbender garnered universal acclaim, boasting a perfect critics score of 100% on Rotten Tomatoes based on 23 reviews as of July 2020. Max Nicholson of IGN hailed it as a “must-watch” and lauded it as “one of the greatest animated series of all time.” Nick Hartel of DVD Talk praised it as a remarkable, “child-friendly show” with a legacy that “should endure for years to come.” Erik Amaya of Bleeding Cool commended its sophistication and described it as “fantastic.” Henry Glasheen of SLUG Magazine dubbed it “adventurous and exciting,” labeling it a “classic” that is occasionally moving. Brittany Lovely of Hypable praised its complex and beautiful storytelling. Joe Corey of Inside Pulse categorized it as an anime-action hybrid, while Chris Mitchell of Popzara hailed it as one of the best shows to air on Nickelodeon, particularly highlighting its background music and voice acting. D.F. Smith of IGN recommended it to viewers who enjoy action-adventure cartoons.
Rob Keyes of Screen Rant hailed the series as “one of the greatest cartoons ever made,” while Mike Noyes of Inside Pulse recommended it to those who enjoy “great” adventure. Gord Lacey of TVShowsOnDVD.com dubbed it “one of the finest animated shows ever,” and Todd Douglass, Jr. of DVD Talk noted that adults will find as much enjoyment in the series as children do. Joshua Miller of CHUD.com praised it as “phenomenal” and “one of the most well-animated programs American TV has ever had,” heavily influenced by anime. Tim Janson of Cinefantastique described it as “one of the most engaging animated shows produced,” and Dennis Amith of J!ENT lauded it as “one of the best animated TV series shown in the US by American creators,” highlighting its sophisticated storylines, humor, and action. Franco “Cricket” Te of Nerd Society labeled it “one of the best cartoons” he had ever seen, praising its characters and plot, while Scott Thill of Wired found it engaging and its Eastern-influenced setting “fantastic.” Kirk Hamilton of Kotaku endorsed it as part of the Golden Age of Television and recommended the “sophisticated kids show” to others.
According to Mike Noyes, the series combines elements of “classic fantasy epics.” Todd Douglass, Jr. commended the engaging, well-thought-out, and meaningful plot, noting the consistent story and the characters’ genuine sense of progression. He praised the writers for their adept handling of humor, drama, and emotion. Joshua Miller highlighted the series’ surprisingly dark tone despite its “silly” theme, likening its liveliness to Lost and commending its character development and true adult-level storytelling. Tim Janson viewed the series as more than just fantasy- and superhero-themed, emphasizing the central and relatable nature of its characters. “Cricket” Te praised the series for incorporating Buddhist philosophies and presenting diverse themes of courage and life. Kirk Hamilton commended the series for encouraging its audience to embrace individuality and for its subtle progressivism.
Critics lauded Avatar: The Last Airbender’s character development, art, animation, and choreography. Eric Amaya admired the expressive animation influenced by Hayao Miyazaki. Todd Douglass, Jr. found the character development intriguing, and Nicole Clark praised the diverse cast of characters. Jenifer Rosenburg commended the portrayal of strong female characters. Joshua Miller highlighted the everyday use of bending, rich designs for each nation, and immersive action scenes with intricate choreography. D. F. Smith appreciated the detailed backgrounds, while “Cricket” Te praised the vibrant color palette and martial arts-magic fusion in choreography. Despite some criticisms, such as Nick Hartel’s mention of animation issues, Chris Mitchell found the animation fluid. Rob Keyes commended the fight choreography, and Kirk Hamilton described the action sequences as child-appropriate and exhilarating.
Legacy
Avatar: The Last Airbender has achieved cult status and influenced the landscape of animated programming in the 2010s, blurring the lines between youth and adult content with its mature themes. It has been widely hailed as one of the greatest animated series of all time by numerous media publications, including TV Guide, Vanity Fair, and IndieWire. Its addition to Netflix in 2020 sparked a resurgence in popularity, reaching the number-one spot on the platform’s top series list within days and maintaining a record-setting 60 days in the top ten. Fans and the show’s creators attribute its renewed relevance to contemporary issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic and racial unrest, as it addresses themes of genocide, totalitarianism, and systemic injustice that resonate with current events.
Awards and Nominations
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Award nominations for Avatar: The Last Airbender |
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| Year | Award | Category | Nominee | Status |
| 2005 | Pulcinella Awards | Best Action Adventure TV Series | Avatar: The Last Airbender | Won |
| Best TV Series | Avatar: The Last Airbender | Won | ||
| 2006 | Annie Awards | Best Animated Television Production | Avatar: The Last Airbender | Nominated |
| Storyboarding in an Animated Television Production | Lauren MacMullan for “The Deserter” | Won | ||
| Writing for an Animated Television Production | Aaron Ehasz and John O’Bryan for “The Fortuneteller” | Nominated | ||
| 2007 | Nickelodeon Australian Kids’ Choice Awards | Fave Toon | Avatar: The Last Airbender | Nominated |
| Annie Awards | Character Animation in a Television Production | Yu Jae Myung for “The Blind Bandit” | Won | |
| Directing in an Animated Television Production | Giancarlo Volpe for “The Drill” | Won | ||
| Genesis Awards | Outstanding Children’s Programming | “Appa’s Lost Days” | Won | |
| Primetime Emmy Awards | Outstanding Animated Program | “City of Walls and Secrets” | Nominated | |
| Outstanding Individual Achievement in Animation | Sang-Jin Kim for “Lake Laogai” | Won | ||
| 2008 | Kids’ Choice Awards | Favorite Cartoon | Avatar: The Last Airbender | Won |
| Annecy International Animated Film Festival | TV series | Joaquim Dos Santos for “The Day of Black Sun, Part 2: The Eclipse” | Nominated | |
| Peabody Awards | Peabody Award | Avatar: The Last Airbender | Won | |
| Satellite Awards | Best Youth DVD | Book 3: Fire, Volume 4 | Nominated | |
| 2009 | Annie Awards | Best Animated Television Production for Children | Avatar: The Last Airbender | Won |
| Directing in an Animated Television Production | Joaquim Dos Santos for “Sozin’s Comet, Part 3: Into the Inferno” | Won | ||
| Golden Reel Awards | Best Sound Editing: Television Animation | “Sozin’s Comet, Part 4: Avatar Aang” | Nominated | |
| Nickelodeon Australian Kids’ Choice Awards | Fave Toon | Avatar: The Last Airbender | Won | |
| 2010 | Nickelodeon Australian Kids’ Choice Awards | Top Toon | Avatar: The Last Airbender | Nominated |
Characters
Aang:
Aang, voiced by Zachary Tyler Eisen, serves as the charismatic and youthful protagonist of the series. Despite being biologically twelve years old, he has spent a century encased in ice, emerging as a 112-year-old upon discovery. As the Avatar, Aang is the earthly embodiment of the world’s spirit, entrusted with the pivotal task of preserving harmony among the nations.
Endowed with remarkable powers, Aang grapples with the weight of his destiny, navigating the delicate balance between his carefree nature and the solemn responsibilities thrust upon him. Though reluctant to embrace his role as the Avatar, he ultimately embarks on a journey filled with adventure, forging meaningful friendships along the way. Aang’s unwavering optimism and determination propel him forward, as he endeavors to thwart the advances of the Fire Nation while cherishing the joys of companionship and exploration.
Katara:
Katara, voiced by Mae Whitman, is a determined fourteen-year-old waterbender hailing from the Southern Water Tribe. She holds the distinction of being the sole waterbender in her tribe. Katara’s journey begins when she stumbles upon Aang, freeing him from a century-long slumber within an iceberg. Alongside her older brother Sokka, aged fifteen, she embarks on a transformative odyssey to aid Aang in his mission to vanquish the Fire Lord and restore harmony to the world.
Initially portrayed as resourceful and compassionate, Katara evolves into a formidable force in her own right, honing her waterbending skills and demonstrating unwavering loyalty to her friends. Despite facing numerous trials and tribulations, Katara remains steadfast in her commitment to justice and peace. The unaired pilot episode initially named her Kya, a name subsequently reassigned to her mother in the series.
Sokka:
Sokka, voiced by Jack DeSena, is a fifteen-year-old warrior hailing from the Southern Water Tribe. Alongside his sister Katara, he embarks on a monumental journey with Aang to confront the Fire Lord and restore peace to their world. Renowned as the group’s resident humorist, Sokka’s witty banter and quick wit provide comedic relief amidst the trials they face.
Although Sokka lacks the ability to bend an element like his companions, he compensates with unparalleled resourcefulness and combat prowess. Armed with his trademark boomerang, battle club, and a sword crafted from a meteorite, Sokka continually proves himself a valuable asset to the team. Despite being the subject of jests and mishaps, Sokka’s indomitable spirit and determination shine through, earning him admiration and respect from his allies.
Toph Beifong:
Toph Beifong, voiced by Jessie Flower, is a remarkable twelve-year-old earthbender who defies expectations at every turn. Despite being blind, she possesses an extraordinary ability to “see” through her acute sense of seismic perception, feeling vibrations in the earth beneath her feet. In Book Two, Toph boldly departs from her affluent upbringing to join Aang on his quest, determined to impart her earthbending expertise to the Avatar.
Throughout her journey, Toph’s unwavering resolve and indomitable spirit propel her to unprecedented heights. Not only does she become Aang’s esteemed earthbending mentor, but she also pioneers the groundbreaking technique of metalbending, a skill previously thought impossible. Renowned as one of the most formidable earthbenders in history, Toph’s ingenuity and mastery of her craft leave an indelible mark on the world.
Zuko:
Zuko, portrayed by Dante Basco, is a complex sixteen-year-old prince of the Fire Nation, initially driven by a relentless pursuit to capture the Avatar and restore his honor. Haunted by his past and the weight of familial expectations, Zuko grapples with feelings of inadequacy, anger, and a longing for acceptance. As the series unfolds, Zuko undergoes a profound transformation, confronting his inner demons and reevaluating his allegiance to the Fire Nation.
Throughout his tumultuous journey, Zuko’s internal struggles lead him to question his identity and the values instilled by his upbringing. Despite his initial antagonistic role, Zuko’s character arc is marked by redemption and growth, as he gradually aligns himself with Aang and his companions. In a pivotal moment of self-discovery, Zuko ultimately chooses to abandon his allegiance to the Fire Nation, embarking on a path of reconciliation and atonement.
By the series’ conclusion, Zuko emerges as a symbol of redemption and reconciliation, crowned as the ruler of the Fire Nation. His journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of compassion, forgiveness, and self-discovery.
Appa:
Appa, voiced by Dee Bradley Baker, is not merely Aang’s pet but his cherished companion and loyal friend. As a flying bison, Appa possesses immense physical strength and the ability to soar through the skies, serving as Team Avatar’s primary means of transportation throughout their journey.
Despite his seemingly simple demeanor, Appa exhibits a profound level of intelligence and emotional depth. He shares a deep bond with Aang and the rest of Team Avatar, displaying unwavering loyalty and a fierce protectiveness towards his friends. Throughout their adventures, Appa proves to be an indispensable ally, offering both physical support and emotional comfort to his companions.
Appa’s significance extends beyond his role as a mode of transportation; he symbolizes the enduring strength of friendship and the unbreakable bond between Aang and his companions. Despite facing numerous challenges and dangers, Appa remains a steadfast and dependable presence, embodying the values of loyalty, courage, and resilience.
Momo:
Momo, voiced by Dee Bradley Baker, is a playful and inquisitive winged lemur who becomes a beloved member of Team Avatar after being discovered at the Southern Air Temple. Despite his small size, Momo’s lively demeanor and mischievous antics add a sense of levity to the group’s adventures.
As Aang’s faithful companion, Momo frequently perches on his shoulder and joins him on his travels, serving as both a source of companionship and comic relief. With his curious nature and penchant for getting into amusing situations, Momo brings joy and laughter to the team, often lightening the mood during tense or serious moments.
Though he lacks the ability to speak, Momo communicates with expressive gestures and chirps, endearing himself to both his fellow characters and the audience. Whether he’s exploring new surroundings, playfully interacting with his friends, or simply enjoying a moment of relaxation, Momo’s presence adds warmth and charm to the world of Avatar: The Last Airbender.
Iroh:
Iroh, voiced by Mako in Books One and Two and Greg Baldwin in Book Three, is a retired Fire Nation general renowned as the “Dragon of the West” and serves as Prince Zuko’s uncle and mentor. Having suffered the loss of his son, Lu Ten, in the war, Iroh returned to the Fire Nation, where he was originally the heir to the throne before his brother’s usurpation.
Despite his jovial and eccentric demeanor, Iroh retains remarkable wisdom, competence in combat, and a deep sense of compassion. He plays a pivotal role in Zuko’s journey of self-discovery and redemption, offering guidance and unwavering support as a surrogate parent.
As a Grand Master of the Order of the White Lotus, a clandestine society promoting peace and balance, Iroh demonstrates his formidable skill in retaking Ba Sing Se from the Fire Nation during the series finale. Unlike typical firebenders, Iroh eschews aggression, drawing strength from ancient firebending techniques learned from dragons. He possesses the rare ability to generate and redirect lightning, a technique he developed himself, showcasing his mastery of firebending.
Throughout the series, Iroh’s wisdom, kindness, and unwavering belief in redemption leave a profound impact on those around him, earning him respect and admiration from allies and adversaries alike. He embodies the ideals of balance, humility, and inner strength, serving as a beacon of hope and guidance in a world torn by conflict and turmoil.
Suki:
Suki, voiced by Jennie Kwan, is the skilled and resilient leader of the Kyoshi Warriors who joins Aang’s quest after being rescued from a Fire Nation prison by Sokka and Zuko. Though initially introduced briefly on Kyoshi Island, she later becomes a permanent member of Team Avatar.
A non-bender like Sokka, Suki compensates for her lack of bending abilities with exceptional combat skills, wielding swords, war fans, and displaying impressive acrobatic prowess. Her proficiency in martial arts and strategic thinking make her a valuable asset to the team, contributing to their success in battles against the Fire Nation.
Throughout the series, Suki’s strong and independent nature earns her respect and admiration from her fellow warriors and teammates alike. Her relationship with Sokka evolves from mutual respect to a deep bond, ultimately blossoming into a romantic connection by the series’ end.
As a key member of Team Avatar, Suki’s courage, loyalty, and unwavering determination make her a beloved character whose contributions to the group’s adventures leave a lasting impact on their journey towards peace and harmony in the world.
Azula:
Azula, voiced by Grey DeLisle, is the fourteen-year-old princess of the Fire Nation and the younger sister of Prince Zuko. A central antagonist in the series, Azula is depicted as a firebending prodigy with exceptional skill, renowned for her mastery of lightning generation, a rare and powerful technique.
Cold, calculating, and manipulative, Azula harbors deep-seated resentment towards her brother and exhibits a ruthless demeanor, showing no hesitation in exploiting and manipulating those around her to achieve her goals. Her loyalty lies solely with her father, Fire Lord Ozai, whom she seeks to please at all costs.
Azula makes her initial appearance towards the end of Book One, although her presence is hinted at earlier in the series. Throughout the show, she emerges as a formidable adversary, employing cunning strategies and ruthless tactics to undermine her enemies and maintain her grip on power within the Fire Nation hierarchy.
Ty Lee:
Ty Lee, brought to life with vivacity and charm by Olivia Hack, embodies the spirit of a lively and upbeat circus acrobat, whose infectious energy lights up any scene she graces. As a close childhood friend of the formidable Azula, Ty Lee’s presence adds a dynamic and colorful dimension to the narrative.
A master of martial arts, particularly renowned for her proficiency in chi-blocking, Ty Lee possesses a unique skill set that sets her apart on the battlefield. Her agility and precision make her a formidable opponent, capable of neutralizing even the most skilled adversaries with graceful ease.
In Book Two, Ty Lee aligns herself with Azula’s ambitious agenda, joining forces with her childhood friend and fellow companion, Mai. Together, they embark on a mission to capture Azula’s adversaries, including the Avatar, Iroh, and Zuko, contributing their talents to Azula’s calculated schemes.
Throughout the series, Ty Lee’s character undergoes significant development, as her unwavering loyalty to Azula is tested amidst the chaos and turmoil of their journey. Despite her bubbly exterior, Ty Lee grapples with her own sense of identity and purpose, navigating the complexities of friendship and allegiance in a world torn apart by conflict.
Mai:
Mai, portrayed with depth and subtlety by Cricket Leigh, embodies the demeanor of a composed and reserved noblewoman, carrying an air of sophistication and mystery. Her character is intricately woven into the fabric of Azula’s inner circle, signifying a deep bond forged in childhood.
A skilled practitioner in the art of throwing knives and stilettos, Mai’s proficiency in combat is matched only by her unwavering loyalty to Azula. It is this loyalty that leads her to join Azula’s ambitious quest to capture the Avatar, as well as her exiled uncle, Iroh, and her former love interest, Zuko, during the events of Book Two.
Throughout the series, Mai undergoes a compelling evolution, particularly in her relationship with Zuko. What begins as a complex dynamic, fraught with history and unresolved emotions, gradually transforms into a poignant romantic connection. As Zuko grapples with his identity and his journey of redemption, Mai stands as a steadfast presence, offering him understanding and support.
Ozai:
Ozai, impeccably voiced by the talented Mark Hamill, commands the screen as the ruthless and power-hungry ruler of the Fire Nation, casting a long shadow of fear and oppression over the world during the tumultuous final years of the Hundred Year War. As the primary antagonist throughout the series, Ozai emerges as a formidable force to be reckoned with, his mastery of firebending rivaled only by his insatiable thirst for power.
From his imposing presence to his chilling demeanor, Ozai epitomizes the archetype of a tyrant, ruling with an iron fist and showing no mercy to those who dare to oppose him. His unwavering commitment to the Fire Nation’s supremacy drives him to commit unspeakable atrocities, including the ruthless sacrifice of his own people and the perpetration of acts of genocide, all in the relentless pursuit of his ambition for world domination.
Zhao:
Zhao, voiced by Jason Isaacs, serves as the commanding officer of the Fire Nation Navy and acts as the secondary antagonist in Book One of the series. A skilled firebender and one of the Fire Nation’s most influential figures, Zhao harbors ambitions of becoming a celebrated hero in Fire Nation history. He is depicted as willing to take extreme measures, including endangering spiritual entities, in pursuit of his goal to secure a lasting legacy for himself within his nation.
Long Feng, voiced by Clancy Brown, holds the position of Grand Secretariat of Ba Sing Se and serves as the leader of the Dai Li. He emerges as the secondary antagonist in Book Two of the series. As Earth King Kuei’s most trusted advisor, Long Feng orchestrates a complex web of deception to conceal the existence of the Hundred Year War from the citizens of Ba Sing Se while consolidating power for himself and the Dai Li. Employing tactics such as blackmail, brainwashing, and abduction, Long Feng demonstrates a ruthless commitment to maintaining his authority over Ba Sing Se at any cost.
Other Media
Books
Several books based on the show have been published, expanding the Avatar: The Last Airbender universe beyond the television series. One notable publication is the art book titled “Avatar: The Last Airbender – The Art of the Animated Series,” released by Dark Horse Comics on June 2, 2010. This book features 184 pages of original art from the series, providing fans with a deeper insight into the creative process behind the show’s stunning visuals. It showcases concept art, character designs, and behind-the-scenes insights, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the richly detailed world of Avatar: The Last Airbender.
Comics
Several comic-book short stories originally published in Nickelodeon Magazine were compiled and released by Dark Horse Comics as “Avatar: The Last Airbender – The Lost Adventures” on June 15, 2011. This collection includes both previously published comics and new stories, offering fans additional insights into the Avatar universe.
Dark Horse also published a graphic novel series by Gene Yang that continues Aang’s story after the Hundred Years’ War. The first installment, “Avatar: The Last Airbender – The Promise,” released in three volumes in 2012, explores the fate of the Fire Nation colonies, which later become the United Republic featured in “The Legend of Korra.” This series was subsequently translated into Hebrew between 2016 and 2017.
Following “The Promise,” Dark Horse released a second set of three comic books titled “Avatar: The Last Airbender – The Search,” focusing on Zuko and Azula’s quest to find their mother, Ursa. This set was translated into Hebrew between 2018 and 2019.
The third comic book series, “Avatar: The Last Airbender – The Rift,” shifts the focus back to Aang and explores the creation of Republic City, as well as Toph’s relationship with her family.
Subsequent graphic novels include “Avatar: The Last Airbender – Smoke and Shadow,” which follows a resistance force in the Fire Nation against Firelord Zuko, and “Avatar: The Last Airbender – North and South,” which sees Katara and Sokka returning to the Water Tribe and encountering changes in their homeland.
The next installment, titled “Imbalance,” released in October 2018, delves into the conflict between benders and non-benders, setting the stage for events depicted in “The Legend of Korra.” Unlike its predecessors, “Imbalance” was written by Faith Erin Hicks.
Prequel novel series
- C. Yee penned a two-part young adult novel series centered around Avatar Kyoshi, published by Abrams Children’s Books in July 2019. The initial installment, “Avatar: The Last Airbender – The Rise of Kyoshi,” kicks off the Kyoshi Novels series. Following this, the second book, titled “The Shadow of Kyoshi,” hit the shelves on July 21, 2020.
Video games
A trilogy of video games based on the series has been released. “Avatar: The Last Airbender” hit the shelves on October 10, 2006, followed by “Avatar: The Last Airbender – The Burning Earth” on October 16, 2007, and “Avatar: The Last Airbender – Into the Inferno” on October 13, 2008. Additionally, “Avatar: Legends of the Arena,” a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) for Microsoft Windows, was released on September 15, 2008, enabling players to create their own characters and interact with others globally. The series’ characters and locations have also made appearances in various Nickelodeon crossover games, such as “Nickelodeon Kart Racers 2: Grand Prix” and “Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl series.” Furthermore, Avatar: The Last Airbender characters are available as skins for certain characters in Smite. Additionally, Navigation Games launched a turn-based role-playing game titled “Avatar Generations” for iOS and Android in early 2023. In September 2023, GameMill Entertainment released “Avatar: The Last Airbender – Quest for Balance,” loosely adapting the show’s events.
Film adaptation
The series’ first season served as the basis for the 2010 live-action film “The Last Airbender,” written and directed by M. Night Shyamalan. Initially intended as the start of a trilogy, with each film based on one of the television seasons, it was met with universal criticism for its writing, acting, whitewashed cast, and direction. The film earned a dismal 5% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and received five Razzies at the 31st Golden Raspberry Awards, including Worst Picture. Some critics labeled it as one of the worst films ever made. To avoid confusion with James Cameron’s film “Avatar,” the title was changed to “The Last Airbender.” The cast includes Noah Ringer as Aang, Nicola Peltz as Katara, Jackson Rathbone as Sokka, Dev Patel as Zuko, and Shaun Toub as Iroh.
Sequel series
“The Legend of Korra,” a sequel series to “Avatar: The Last Airbender,” debuted on Nickelodeon on April 14, 2012. Created and produced by Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko, the original series’ creators, it was initially titled “Avatar: Legend of Korra” before being shortened to “The Last Airbender: Legend of Korra.” Set seventy years after the events of “Avatar: The Last Airbender,” the series follows Korra, the new Avatar after Aang’s passing, who hails from the Southern Water Tribe and is 17 years old at the start of the series.
Live-action series remake
In September 2018, Netflix announced plans for a “reimagined” live-action remake of Avatar, with the original creators, DiMartino and Konietzko, as executive producers and showrunners. They aimed for a culturally appropriate, non-whitewashed cast. Jeremy Zuckerman returned to compose the music. However, in August 2020, DiMartino and Konietzko departed due to creative differences. Albert Kim was later named as the showrunner. Casting announcements followed, with Gordon Cormier, Kiawentiio Tarbell, Ian Ousley, and Dallas Liu cast in key roles, alongside Daniel Dae Kim, Paul Sun-Hyung Lee, Lim Kay Siu, and Ken Leung. Production began in Vancouver, with additional castings revealed in December.
Avatar Studios
On February 24, 2021, ViacomCBS announced the establishment of Avatar Studios, a new division of Nickelodeon focused on creating animated series and films set in the Avatar universe. Original series creators DiMartino and Konietzko lead the studio as co-chief creative officers. They report to Nickelodeon Animation Studio president Ramsey Ann Naito. Avatar Studios’ content will be distributed via Nickelodeon’s platforms, Paramount+, theaters, and other third-party platforms. The company also revealed plans for an animated film to commence production in 2021. DiMartino and Konietzko expressed excitement about expanding the franchise’s storytelling, while ViacomCBS Kids & Family president Brian Robbins emphasized the growing popularity of Avatar: The Last Airbender and Korra.
Animated films
On June 15, 2022, Paramount made a significant announcement, revealing that three animated films set in the Avatar: The Last Airbender universe are currently in production. This news marks a notable expansion of the franchise’s cinematic presence, offering fans an exciting opportunity to delve deeper into the rich and immersive world of Avatar. With the success and enduring popularity of the original animated series, as well as the subsequent sequel series The Legend of Korra, the decision to create three new films demonstrates the studio’s commitment to further exploring and expanding upon the beloved narrative universe created by Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko. This development is sure to generate anticipation and excitement among fans eager to experience new adventures and stories within the Avatar universe on the big screen.
Tabletop roleplaying game
On July 12, 2021, Magpie Games made a groundbreaking announcement, revealing plans to launch a Kickstarter campaign for Avatar Legends: The Roleplaying Game, an officially licensed tabletop RPG set in the captivating universe of Avatar: The Last Airbender and The Legend of Korra. The campaign, scheduled to kick off on August 3 of the same year, garnered immense anticipation and excitement from fans eager to immerse themselves in the world of Avatar through the interactive medium of tabletop gaming.
Following its launch, the Kickstarter campaign exceeded all expectations, shattering records and raising an astounding USD $9.53 million. This remarkable achievement solidified Avatar Legends: The Roleplaying Game as the most successful campaign for a tabletop game in Kickstarter’s storied history. The overwhelming support and enthusiasm from fans underscored the enduring popularity and widespread appeal of the Avatar franchise, affirming its status as a cultural phenomenon.
Building on the momentum of its successful crowdfunding campaign, pre-orders for much of the game’s content became available on October 12, 2022, offering fans the opportunity to secure their place in the immersive world of Avatar and embark on epic adventures of their own creation. With its innovative gameplay mechanics, rich storytelling opportunities, and faithful adaptation of the beloved source material, Avatar Legends: The Roleplaying Game promises to deliver an unforgettable gaming experience for fans of all ages.
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