Legacy of Vader Unveils Kylo Ren's Past

Marvel's Star Wars comic book line is undergoing a significant shift. 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. Following the conclusion of these titles, Marvel is expanding its storytelling to other points in the Star Wars timeline. Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku depicts the final major conflict between the Rebel Alliance and the remnants of the Empire. The upcoming Star Wars: Jedi Knights explores the Jedi Order before The Phantom Menace. Most notably, Star Wars: Legacy of Vader delves into the character of Kylo Ren.

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

Star Wars: Legacy of Vader - Preview Art Gallery

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Revisiting Kylo Ren's Story

Soule, known for his work on the post-Empire Strikes Back era (including the flagship Star Wars series and crossovers like War of the Bounty Hunters and Dark Droids), explains his return to Kylo Ren, a character he previously explored in 2020's The Rise of Kylo Ren.

"I've wanted to revisit Kylo Ren for a long time," Soule stated. "It's been over four years since The Rise of Kylo Ren, and I always felt there was more to tell. The films only reveal so much; a significant portion of Kylo's story is implied or unaddressed."

He continued, "Setting this after Episode VIII allows me to explore a character undergoing immense change in a short period. It's a great opportunity. You want characters with emotional depth—and Kylo is about as emotionally charged as it gets."

Soule also highlighted his reunion with artist Luke Ross, with whom he collaborated on previous Star Wars projects.

"I'll work with Luke whenever possible!" Soule exclaimed. "His work has improved with each project, and this one is phenomenal. He's perfectly captured 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 takes place immediately after The Last Jedi. Ben has failed to sway Rey to the dark side, battled Luke, nearly killed his mother, and gained control of the First Order. The series explores his inner turmoil as he grapples with his past.

"Poor Ben," Soule commented. "We know a part of him remains, but at this point, he's buried deep within Kylo Ren. He's faced Luke, killed Snoke and his father, almost killed his mother, connected with Rey, and now leads the First Order—all 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 confront his past and his conflicted feelings towards his grandfather, Anakin Skywalker.

"Kylo isn't honest with himself," Soule explained. "He makes grand pronouncements, posturing, trying to convince himself of his untouchability. But he's lost. While claiming to kill his past, he seeks guidance. That's his conflicted relationship with his grandfather."

The story also explores the First Order's internal politics, featuring characters like General Hux and General Pryde. Kylo's consolidation of power within the First Order is a significant plot element.

"I'd be disappointed not to explore the First Order's internal politics," Soule admitted. "Hux is in the book, and Pryde was present. Kylo's journey is central, but his manipulation of the First Order is also part of the story."

Star Wars: Legacy of Vader aims to deepen our understanding of Kylo Ren/Ben Solo, providing insights into his motivations and choices in The Rise of Skywalker.

"I've been telling Star Wars stories for a decade," Soule reflected. "I strive for each story to stand alone while also contributing to the larger Star Wars canon. This book is about Kylo Ren's struggle for self-definition. It's a journey filled with turmoil and pain. Some might say it's because he's not truly Kylo, but Ben. But it also works if you know nothing about him—he's searching for himself, like many young people. Of course, he's also a powerful dark side user. There's plenty of angst and drama, but also action."

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