Marvel's Star Wars comics are entering a new era. Previously focused on the period between The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, with titles like Star Wars, Darth Vader, and Doctor Aphra, Marvel is now expanding its storytelling across the Star Wars timeline. Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku covers the final clash between the Rebel Alliance and the Empire, while the upcoming Star Wars: Jedi Knights explores the Jedi Order before The Phantom Menace. Most notably, Star Wars: Legacy of Vader delves deep into the complex character of Kylo Ren.
IGN recently interviewed Legacy of Vader writer Charles Soule, offering insights into the series and its exploration of 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 the Story of Kylo Ren
Soule, known for his work on the flagship Star Wars series and major 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 miniseries.
"I’ve wanted to get back to Kylo Ren for ages," Soule told IGN. "It’s been over four years since The Rise of Kylo Ren, and I’ve always felt there was more to tell. The films only show us so much; a lot of Kylo’s story is implied or unaddressed."
He continued, "Setting this book after Episode VIII lets me explore a character undergoing extreme change in a short time. His life has drastically changed, offering a huge opportunity. You want emotionally resonant characters—and Kylo is about as emotional as it gets."
Soule also highlights his reunion with artist Luke Ross: "I’ll work with Luke any chance I get! His work has improved with each project, and this one…wow. He’s perfectly captured Kylo Ren’s turmoil and unpredictable rage. Luke, and our colorist Nolan Woodard, are doing incredible work."
Ben Solo After The Last Jedi
Legacy of Vader is set immediately after The Last Jedi. Ben has failed to turn Rey, battled Luke, nearly killed his mother, and gained control of the First Order. The series explores the turmoil he faces as he tries to leave his past behind.
"Poor Ben," Soule says. "We know he's still in there, but at this point, he's been shoved into a dark corner of Kylo Ren’s psyche. In a short time, he’s faced Luke, killed Snoke and his father, almost killed his mother, connected with Rey, and controls the First Order. All this in weeks! Kylo wants to move on, but the trauma is fresh."
The series begins with Ben visiting Darth Vader's Mustafar fortress, attempting to confront his past but also seeking guidance from his grandfather. Soule teases Ben's conflicted feelings about Anakin Skywalker.
"Kylo isn't honest with himself," Soule explains. "He makes grand pronouncements, posturing, trying to convince himself he feels a certain way—untouchable and all-powerful. But he's lost. While he says he wants to kill his past, part of him seeks guidance. That sums up his feelings about his grandfather."
The story will also explore the First Order's internal politics, featuring characters like General Hux and General Pryde.
"I'd be disappointed if I didn't get to play with the First Order's internal politics," Soule says. "Hux is in the book, and Pryde was around. Kylo’s journey is the focus, but his use and development of the First Order is part of the story."
Star Wars: Legacy of Vader aims to enhance 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 choices in The Rise of Skywalker.
"I've been telling Star Wars stories for a decade," Soule says. "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 not easy. Every moment is filled with turmoil and pain. Some fans might say that's because he's not truly Kylo—part of him is Ben—and the story can be viewed that way. But it also works if you know nothing about Kylo Ren—that he’s searching for himself, like many young people do. He's also a dark space wizard with a laser sword. There’s plenty of angst and drama, but also action. I think fans will love it."
Star Wars: Legacy of Vader #1 releases February 5, 2025.
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