Kylo Ren's Lost Year Revealed in Star Wars: Legacy of Vader

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 depicts the final clash between the Rebel Alliance and the Empire's remnants. Star Wars: Jedi Knights explores the Jedi Order before The Phantom Menace. And most intriguingly, 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, a key figure in Marvel's post-Empire Strikes Back era, penned the flagship Star Wars series and major crossovers like War of the Bounty Hunters and Dark Droids. His decision to jump decades ahead stems from a desire to revisit Kylo Ren, a character he previously explored in 2020's The Rise of Kylo Ren.

"I've wanted to return to Kylo Ren for a long time," Soule told IGN. "It's been over four years since The Rise of Kylo Ren, the miniseries I created with Will Sliney, chronicling Ben Solo's transformation. That was set before Episode VII, and I always felt there was more to tell. Like Darth Vader, the films only show us so much; much of Kylo's story is implied or unaddressed."

He continued, "Setting this book after Episode VIII allows me to explore a character undergoing immense change in a short time – his life has drastically altered. It's a huge opportunity. You want emotionally resonant characters, and Kylo is as emotionally charged as they come."

Soule also expressed excitement about reuniting with artist Luke Ross, with whom he collaborated on several Star Wars projects.

"I'll work with Luke anytime!" Soule exclaimed. "We've done three major Star Wars projects together – War of the Bounty Hunters, Dark Droids, and now this. His work improves 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 phenomenal 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 controls the First Order. The series explores his turmoil as he attempts to bury 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 a short time, he's confronted Luke, killed Snoke and his father, almost killed his mother, connected with Rey, and assumed control of the First Order. All within weeks! Kylo 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 about Anakin Skywalker.

"Kylo isn't honest with himself," Soule explained. "He makes grand pronouncements, posturing, convincing himself he feels a certain way – untouchable and powerful. But he's lost. While he claims to want to kill his past, he also seeks guidance. That's his feeling about his grandfather – conflicted."

The series will also explore the First Order's internal politics, featuring characters like General Hux and Allegiant General Pryde.

"I'd be disappointed not to explore the First Order's internal politics," Soule stated. "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 ensure each story stands alone while fitting into the larger canon. This book is about Kylo Ren's struggle to define himself, and it's not easy. Every moment is filled with turmoil and pain. Some fans might say that's because he's not truly Kylo – a 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.

For more on upcoming Star Wars projects, see our breakdown of every Star Wars movie and series in development.