Vader's Legacy Fills Kylo Ren's Past

Marvel's Star Wars comics are entering a new phase. Previously, the publisher primarily focused on the year between The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, with series like Star Wars, Darth Vader, and Doctor Aphra. Now, with those concluded, Marvel is expanding its scope across the Star Wars timeline. Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku depicts the final major clash between the Rebel Alliance and the Empire's remnants. Star Wars: Jedi Knights explores the Jedi Order before The Phantom Menace. However, Star Wars: Legacy of Vader, aiming to significantly develop Adam Driver's Kylo Ren, is arguably the most captivating.

IGN recently interviewed Legacy of Vader writer Charles Soule to discuss the series and its impact on the enigmatic Ben Solo. Below is an exclusive preview, followed by the interview.

Star Wars: Legacy of Vader - Preview Art Gallery

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Returning to Kylo Ren's Story

Soule, a key figure in Marvel's post-Empire Strikes Back era (writing the flagship Star Wars series and major crossovers like War of the Bounty Hunters and Dark Droids), shifted his focus several decades forward. His reasoning? A return to Kylo Ren, a character whose origins he previously explored in 2020.

"I've wanted to revisit Kylo Ren for a long time," Soule told IGN. "It's been over four years since The Rise of Kylo Ren, the miniseries I co-created with Will Sliney, detailing Ben Solo's transformation. Set before Episode VII, I always felt there was more to tell. Like Darth Vader, the films only reveal so much; much of Kylo's story is implied or unexplored."

He continued, "Setting this after Episode VIII lets me explore a character undergoing immense change in a short time – his life drastically altered. It's a huge opportunity. You want emotionally resonant characters – and Kylo is as emotionally charged as they come."

Soule also reunited with Luke Ross, a prolific Star Wars artist, for this project.

"I'll collaborate with Luke whenever possible!" Soule exclaimed. "We've worked together on three major Star Wars projects – War of the Bounty Hunters, Dark Droids, and now this. His art improves with each project, and this one…wow. He perfectly captures Kylo Ren's turmoil and unpredictable rage. Luke, and our colorist Nolan Woodard, are doing exceptional work."

Ben Solo After The Last Jedi

Legacy of Vader is set immediately after The Last Jedi. Ben failed to turn Rey, battled Luke, nearly killed his mother, and now controls the galaxy's most powerful military. The series explores his profound turmoil as he attempts to overcome his past.

"Poor Ben. We know he's still in there, but at this point, he's buried deep within Kylo Ren," Soule stated. "He's confronted Luke, killed Snoke and his father, almost killed his mother, connected with Rey, and seized control of the First Order – all seemingly within weeks! Kylo wants to move on, but the trauma is raw."

The series begins with Ben visiting Darth Vader's Mustafar fortress, attempting to conquer his past by confronting his grandfather's legacy. Soule hints at Ben's conflicted feelings towards Anakin Skywalker.

"Kylo isn't entirely self-aware," Soule explained. "He makes grand pronouncements, posturing, convincing himself he feels a certain way – untouchable and powerful. But he's lost. While claiming to kill his past, he secretly seeks guidance. This reflects his feelings about his grandfather – he's conflicted."

The First Order's internal dynamics also feature prominently. General Hux's dislike for Kylo Ren and Pryde's underhanded plotting are explored, showcasing the First Order's political machinations as Kylo consolidates his power.

"I'd be disappointed if I didn't explore the First Order's internal politics," Soule admitted. "Hux and Pryde are present. Kylo's journey is central, but his use and development of the First Order are key story elements."

Star Wars: Legacy of Vader aims to deepen our understanding of Kylo Ren/Ben Solo, adding layers to the Sequel Trilogy villain. While the ending is known, the book will illuminate Ben Solo's motivations and choices in The Rise of Skywalker.

"I've been telling Star Wars stories for a decade," Soule said. "I strive to create standalone narratives while incorporating elements appreciated by those familiar with the larger Star Wars canon."

He concluded, "This book is about Kylo Ren's self-discovery struggle. Every moment is filled with turmoil and pain. Some fans might attribute this to his inner Ben, but it also works if you know nothing about Kylo – he's searching for himself, like many young people. Of course, he's also a dark space wizard with a lightsaber. It's full of angst and drama, but also action. Fans will love it."

Star Wars: Legacy of Vader #1 releases February 5, 2025.

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