25 moments Netflix’s remake of Avatar: The Last Airbender MUST get right

Iroh’s Backstory

Speaking of Iroh, it’s crucial the live-action series include his backstory if it wants to do his character justice. Although Iroh’s surrogate father-son relationship with Prince Zuko is the focal point of his character arc, his history sheds some light on why he’s so intent on loving his brother’s son as if he was his own. And it’s sure to make fans everywhere tear up.

During The Tale of Iroh, one of the sequences in the anthology episode “The Tales of Ba Sing Se,” fans follow Iroh going about his day, which he spends doling out helpful advice to everyone he meets, whether it’s kids playing in the streets or a guy who tries to mug him. His journey ends, however, with him paying a visit to his late son, who actually died in combat during the Siege of Ba Sing Se years ago.

Watching one of the wisest and happiest characters on the show break down makes this one of The Last Airbender‘s most emotional moments. It also adds new layers to Iroh’s relationship with Zuko, and to his perspective on the Fire Nation overall; we understand why he became disillusioned with the Fire Nation’s expansionism, and with war in general. In a lot of ways, this moment, this moment is the key to Iroh’s character, and Netflix has to nail it perfectly.

And speaking of original music, the heart-wrenching “Leaves From the Vine” is a must for any soundtrack that’s to come from the series.