Star Wars: Legacy Expands Kylo Ren's Backstory

Marvel's Star Wars comics are entering a new phase. 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. Now, with those concluded, Marvel is expanding its storytelling across the Star Wars timeline. 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 deeply into the character of Kylo Ren.

IGN interviewed Legacy of Vader writer Charles Soule to discuss the series and its impact on Ben Solo's portrayal. Below is an exclusive preview:

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 Star Wars 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 show a fraction of his story; much is implied or unaddressed."

He continued, "Setting this after Episode VIII lets me explore a character undergoing immense change in a short time. It's a great opportunity. Kylo is as emotionally complex as they come."

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

"I'll work with Luke anytime!" Soule said. "His work keeps improving, and this…wow. He's perfectly captured Kylo Ren's turmoil and unpredictable rage. 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 sway 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 in there, but right now, 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 Vader's Mustafar fortress, attempting to sever ties with his past but grappling with his grandfather's legacy. Soule hints at Ben's conflicted feelings towards Anakin Skywalker.

"Kylo isn't honest with himself," Soule explained. "He makes grand pronouncements, posturing, convincing himself he feels a certain way. But he's lost. While claiming to kill his past, he secretly seeks guidance. That's how he feels about his grandfather – conflicted."

The First Order's internal politics are also highlighted, featuring Hux and Pryde. Kylo's consolidation of power within the First Order is a key plot element.

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

Star Wars: Legacy of Vader aims to enrich 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 motivations and choices in The Rise of Skywalker.

"I've been telling Star Wars stories for a decade," Soule said. "I aim for each story to stand alone while fitting into the larger canon. This book is about Kylo's struggle for self-definition. It's a tumultuous journey. Some fans might see it through the lens of Ben's struggle to reclaim himself. But even without that context, it works – a young person searching for themselves, who also happens to be a dark space wizard with a lightsaber. There's angst and drama, but plenty of action too."

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