'Star Wars Rebels' season 3 spoilers, news: Obi-Wan defeats Maul; season finale to feature major battle between Rebel Alliance and the Empire

With the timeline of the animated series fast approaching that of "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" and "Star Wars: A New Hope," it is expected that "Star Wars Rebels" will provide an ending, whether good or bad, for its characters. A major character was just given a permanent closure in episode 20 of season 3: Maul.

This revelation may come as a surprise for moviegoers, as the Sith Lord (Ray Park) was killed by Obi-Wan Kenobi in "Stars Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace." However, in the animated series "Star Wars: The Clone Wars," Darth Maul was shown to have somehow survived the attack, albeit suffering from amnesia. He later recovered his memory and was given robotic legs since his legs were cut off by Obi-Wan Kenobi. He has since dropped "Darth" from his name, although he continues to be on the Dark Side, being one of the antagonists in "Star Wars Rebels."

In episode 20, he used Ezra Bridger to draw out the Jedi Master. However, the tables were turned, with Obi-Wan Kenobi once again gaining the upper hand, defeating him quickly, and this time, for good. However quick the battle may be, it seems that it will have a major effect on Ezra, who was tempted by Maul to join the Dark Side.

The season finale, which is one hour long, is titled "Zero Hour." It is expected to feature a major battle between the Rebel Alliance and the Empire. The Rebels will plan for the attack on Lothal, but their plans are in danger of being foiled after Grand Admiral Thrawn discovers their location. His master plan, which has been hinted at almost from the beginning of the series, will finally be revealed. Hera and Kanan will also find a way to secure their forces after the rebel base is attacked. The results may not turn out in favor of the Rebel Alliance, given that their first victory against the Empire was in "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story."

The season 3 finale of "Star Wars Rebels" will air on March 25, Saturday, at 8:30 p.m. EDT on Disney XD. Season 4 is slated to premiere this fall.