Marvel's Star Wars comics are entering a new phase. Previously, the publisher concentrated on the period between The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, with series like Star Wars, Darth Vader, and Doctor Aphra. Following their conclusion, Marvel is expanding into other eras. Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku depicts the final clash between the Rebellion and the Empire, while Star Wars: Jedi Knights explores the Jedi Order before The Phantom Menace. Most notably, Star Wars: Legacy of Vader delves into Kylo Ren's backstory.
IGN interviewed writer Charles Soule about this new series and its impact on Kylo Ren. Below is an exclusive preview:
Star Wars: Legacy of Vader - Preview Art Gallery
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Kylo Ren's Continued Story
Soule, known for his work on the post-Empire Strikes Back era (including 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 show a fraction of his story; much is implied or unaddressed."
He continued, "Setting this after Episode VIII allows me to explore a character undergoing immense change in a short time. It's a great opportunity. Kylo is as emotionally complex as a character can get."
Soule also reunited with artist Luke Ross: "I'll work with Luke whenever possible! He's captured Kylo Ren's turmoil and rage perfectly. Luke, and 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 convert Rey, battled Luke, nearly killed his mother, and controls the First Order. The series explores his internal conflict as he tries to overcome his past.
"Poor Ben," Soule commented. "We know he's still there, but at this point, he's buried deep within Kylo Ren. He's confronted Luke, killed Snoke and his father, almost killed his mother, connected with Rey, and commands the First Order—all in weeks! He 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 explains. "He makes grand pronouncements, posturing, trying to convince himself he's untouchable. But he's lost. While claiming to kill his past, he seeks guidance. That's his feeling about his grandfather—he's conflicted."
The series will also explore First Order politics, focusing on the tensions between Kylo Ren, General Hux, and Allegiant General Pryde.
"I'd be disappointed not to explore the First Order's internal politics," Soule said. "Hux is in the book, and Pryde was around then. Kylo's journey is central, but his use of the First Order is part of the story."
Star Wars: Legacy of Vader aims to deepen our understanding of Kylo Ren/Ben Solo, providing insight into his choices in The Rise of Skywalker.
"I've been telling Star Wars stories for a decade," Soule said. "I try to make each story stand alone while fitting into the larger canon. This book is about Kylo Ren's struggle to define himself. It's filled with turmoil and pain. Some fans will see it as Ben struggling within Kylo. But it works even if you know nothing about Kylo—he's searching for himself, like many young people. He's also a dark wizard with a lightsaber. There's angst and drama, but plenty of action too."
Star Wars: Legacy of Vader #1 releases February 5, 2025.
AnswerSee ResultsFor more on upcoming Star Wars projects, see our overview of all films and series in development.
