Marvel's Star Wars comics are entering a new phase. Previously, the publisher focused on the year between 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 to other eras. Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku covers the final major Rebel-Imperial clash, 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 Legacy of Vader and its impact on Ben Solo. (See the preview gallery below.)
Star Wars: Legacy of Vader - Preview Art Gallery
12 Images
Kylo Ren's Continued Journey
Soule, known for his work on the post-Empire Strikes Back era 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. He felt there was more to tell, beyond what the films revealed. The new series, set after Episode VIII, focuses on Kylo's rapid transformation and intense emotional state. Soule also reunited with artist Luke Ross, previously collaborating on War of the Bounty Hunters and Dark Droids.
Ben Solo's Post-Last Jedi Turmoil
Legacy of Vader is set immediately after The Last Jedi. Ben has failed to corrupt Rey, clashed with Luke, nearly killed his mother, and controls the First Order. The series explores his internal conflict as he grapples with his past. The story begins with Ben visiting Darth Vader's Mustafar fortress, highlighting his conflicted feelings about his grandfather. Soule emphasizes Ben's self-deception and underlying need for guidance.
The First Order's internal politics also play a significant role, featuring characters like Hux and Pryde. Kylo's consolidation of power within the First Order is a key storyline element.
The series aims to enrich our understanding of Kylo Ren/Ben Solo, adding depth to the Sequel Trilogy villain. While the outcome is known, the comic will illuminate Ben's motivations and choices in The Rise of Skywalker. Soule aims for a standalone narrative while enriching the broader Star Wars canon. He describes the story as one of self-discovery, filled with turmoil, pain, and action.
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.
