The Bad Batch Episode 8 Left Fans Heartbroken (Even Though They Knew What Was Coming)

Warning: The following article contains spoilers for The Bad Batch episodes 7 & 8.

Star Wars fans knew exactly what was coming when they started watching the new episodes of The Bad Batch on Tuesdays, but one particular moment in episode 8 still left them with a heavy heart.

Yes, we're talking about Echo's inevitable departure from the Bad Batch. The fact that it happened in the middle of the season caught many fans off guard, as they were expecting him to stick around for a while and get more character development, as many people have complained that Echo seems to be getting sidelined.

Well, now that he is officially separated from the Bad Batch, fans are even more concerned that Echo has been effectively written off. However, while some are mourning Echo's departure, an optimistic note is being struck on social media.

"[For] those complaining about how little emotion the Batch expressed at Echo's departure: they know this departure isn't permanent. We don't know what Hunter said to Echo beforehand but I know it was words of reassurance that he can always come back," Twitter user mrs_sniper9904 said.

Still, the fact that Echo had "barely any screen time" in season 2 continues to bother fans, who clearly did not expect his exit to come so soon. Some people even think that Echo's departure may foreshadow his death.

"Because what if Echo isn't going to be okay? He's with Rex, but he's not in rebels which can only mean one thing that I dare not speak out loud [...] Rex gave up the fight for a reason. What if losing Echo (and probably Cody) is that reason?" Twitter user swclonesimp suggested.