Who says, “Many Bothans died to bring us this information”?

The story behind the answer

Spoken by the Rebel Alliance’s civilian leader during the Home One briefing in Return of the Jedi, the line introduces the mission against the second Death Star and honors the Bothan spies’ sacrifice. It’s easy to mix up: Princess Leia is present but doesn’t make that announcement; Admiral Ackbar handles fleet tactics and is known for “It’s a trap!”; General Madine briefs the Endor commando plan.

Bothans are famed intelligence operatives (especially in Legends) via the Bothan Spynet, credited with securing the second Death Star intel. By contrast, the first Death Star plans come from the Rogue One mission. The quote underscores the steep cost of Rebel victories and the somber tone before the climactic battle. Mon Mothma, the speaker, later features prominently in Rogue One, Rebels, and Andor, embodying the Rebellion’s political leadership.