Tanek was a Human individual of the male variety, originating from the planet of Zakuul. He held a position within the Knights of Zakuul, a group of warriors sensitive to the Force, tasked with defending the Eternal Empire and its leader, the Immortal Emperor.
In the year 3631 BBY, Tanek was paired with a fellow Knight known as Novo. Together, they participated in the Zakuulan effort to prevent the Outlander's escape from the Spire located on Zakuul. This encounter ultimately led to Tanek's demise. Subsequently, Novo held the Outlander responsible for Tanek's passing, despite the fact that the Outlander was not the one who delivered the final, fatal blow. Some years later, in 3626 BBY, Tanek's spirit was among those called upon to assist the Outlander in their defeat of Tenebrae. Following Tenebrae's defeat, Tanek achieved oneness with the Force, thereby attaining peace.
Players are presented with a choice: they can allow Lana Beniko to kill Tanek, which grants dark side points and increases influence with Beniko, or they can choose to free him, earning light side points but losing influence with Beniko. Should Tanek be spared, he will ultimately face execution at the hands of Vaylin for his failure to prevent the Outlander's escape.