Theory: The cycle of statues at the air temple looked like it had come to its natural end so I think it was always meant to restart and the spirits knew it just like the moon knew it would die so gave life to Yue.
I think Iroh is connected in a similar way to a foxy knowledge seeker and now exists in the spirit world as a bridge to the Avatars lost knowledge. Korra left letters from herself as well as her and Aangs friends to help guide the next Avatar since she won't be connected to them and they may not even be connected to their successors.
In Zukos letter he directly refences Iroh and his advice. He asks the future Avatars to seek him out for guidance. Much like an Avatar would connect to their past lives guidance, they would now have Iroh.
Also more to the point, this is a TV show and this seems like the perfect plot device to keep any future shows connected using an established highly popular character in the same mentor role that gained them that popularity.
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u/Andykingofbrown Jul 04 '20
Theory: The cycle of statues at the air temple looked like it had come to its natural end so I think it was always meant to restart and the spirits knew it just like the moon knew it would die so gave life to Yue. I think Iroh is connected in a similar way to a foxy knowledge seeker and now exists in the spirit world as a bridge to the Avatars lost knowledge. Korra left letters from herself as well as her and Aangs friends to help guide the next Avatar since she won't be connected to them and they may not even be connected to their successors. In Zukos letter he directly refences Iroh and his advice. He asks the future Avatars to seek him out for guidance. Much like an Avatar would connect to their past lives guidance, they would now have Iroh. Also more to the point, this is a TV show and this seems like the perfect plot device to keep any future shows connected using an established highly popular character in the same mentor role that gained them that popularity.