Star Wars: Legacy Unlocks Kylo Ren's Past

Marvel's Star Wars comics are entering a new phase. Previously, the publisher concentrated 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 into other eras. Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku depicts the final major clash between the Rebellion and the Empire. 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 Legacy of Vader writer Charles Soule. Below is an exclusive preview, followed by the interview.

Star Wars: Legacy of Vader - Preview Art Gallery

12 Images

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," Soule stated. "It's been over four years since The Rise of Kylo Ren, which chronicled Ben Solo's transformation. That was pre-Episode VII, and I always felt there was more to tell. The films only show us so much; much of Kylo's story is implied or unaddressed."

He continued, "Setting this after Episode VIII lets me explore a character undergoing immense change in a short time. His life has drastically altered. It's a huge opportunity. You want emotional characters – and Kylo's about as emotional as it gets."

Soule also reunited with artist Luke Ross, collaborating on War of the Bounty Hunters and Dark Droids.

"I'll work with Luke whenever possible!" Soule said. "His work has improved with each project, and this one… wow. He's perfectly captured Kylo Ren's turmoil and unpredictable rage. Luke, and colorist Nolan Woodard, are doing phenomenal 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 controls the First Order. The series explores his turmoil as he tries to overcome his past.

"Poor Ben," Soule commented. "We know he's still in there, but at this point, he's been pushed into a dark corner of Kylo Ren's psyche. In weeks, he faced Luke, killed Snoke and his father, almost killed his mother, connected with Rey, and took control of the First Order. Kylo wants to move forward, but the trauma is fresh."

The series begins with Ben visiting Vader's Mustafar fortress, attempting to confront his past and his conflicted feelings about Anakin Skywalker.

"Kylo isn't honest with himself," Soule explains. "He makes grand pronouncements, posturing, convincing himself he feels a certain way – untouchable and all-powerful. But he's lost. While he says he wants to kill his past, he seeks guidance. That's how he feels about his grandfather – conflicted."

The First Order's internal politics will also be a focus, featuring Hux and 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 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 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 not easy for him. 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. Of course, he's also a dark space wizard with a lightsaber. 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.