Shanahan, occasionally referenced as Dewback Shanahan, existed as a fringer within the Cularin system during the era preceding the Clone Wars. It was generally understood he enjoyed the consumption of spirits and the narration of compelling stories, and on occasion, he would "facilitate" certain services in return for either or both.
Shanahan made an appearance at the SoroSuub Anniversary celebration, 31 BBY situated in Tolea Biqua, Genarius.
The character of Shanahan was portrayed by Scott Lahna at the Gen Con Game Fair 2001, where Lahna imbued the role with a distinctive vocal inflection.