Kylo Ren Isn’t the Only One: Other Descendants of Luke Skywalker Who Embraced the Dark Side

The Skywalker family, with its profound connection to the Force, stands as one of the most pivotal bloodlines in the Star Wars saga. However, this unique sensitivity often puts them at a greater risk of succumbing to the dark side. Characters like Kylo Ren, who fancies himself the rightful successor of Darth Vader, represent just one aspect of a broader trend within the Skywalker lineage: the tendency to sacrifice moral integrity for power.

Anakin Skywalker, whose birth is steeped in mystery, is heralded as a Force-born miracle. This extraordinary lineage has endowed each generation with remarkable abilities. Yet, it’s essential to note that the Skywalkers often grapple with intense emotions. The turbulent environment around them, coupled with manipulative influences, frequently drives them toward darkness. While not every Skywalker has intentionally ventured down this perilous path, several have become notorious figures wielding the dark side’s power.

The following highlights eight notable members of the Skywalker clan who have succumbed to the temptations of the dark side, primarily focusing on characters from Expanded Universe lore.

1. Anakin Skywalker

The Patriarch of the Skywalker Line

Anakin Vader Art With Thrawn Alliances #4

It’s impossible to discuss dark side users in the Skywalker family without beginning with Anakin Skywalker, the progenitor of the lineage. His potent connection to the Force attracted the malevolent interest of figures like Palpatine, who manipulated Anakin’s fears and insecurities from a young age. Plagued by ominous visions and feeling unsupported by the Jedi, Anakin ultimately turned to Darth Sidious in a moment of desperation. This betrayal led him to renounce his Jedi identity, paving the way for Darth Vader’s reign of terror across the galaxy, leaving countless worlds fractured in his wake.

2. Luke Skywalker

A Jedi Hero With a Dark Side

Luke Skywalker kneels in front of a star ship

Luke Skywalker, despite his heroic ideals, grappled with his own dark moments throughout his journey as a Jedi. Possessing an innate acceptance of his emotions allowed him to connect deeply with the Force. However, during the aftermath of the Empire’s defeat, he encountered remnants of the Emperor’s influence, leading him to briefly explore the dark side. In a crucial turning point, he chose to reject the darkness when he learned of Palpatine’s manipulative games, reaffirming his commitment to the light side.

3. Jacen Solo / Darth Caedus

The True Scourge of the Skywalker Family

An illustration of Darth Caedus by Chris Trevas from Star Wars: The Essential Atlas.

Jacen Solo, the son of Leia Organa and Han Solo, was once a beacon of hope in the galaxy. However, as the galaxy faced the brutal onslaught of the Yuuzhan Vong, Jacen’s perception of power shifted.His descent into darkness culminated in his transformation into Darth Caedus, where he waged a personal war against those he claimed to protect, including his own family, ultimately leading to tragic confrontations.

4. Mara Jade Skywalker

Emperor Palpatine’s Ex-Assassin

Star Wars' Mara Jade wielding a purple lightsaber with an army of Stormtroopers behind her.

Originally an assassin for Emperor Palpatine, Mara Jade’s journey took a transformative turn when she married Luke Skywalker. Following the fall of the Empire, she sought redemption for her past actions by joining Luke in restoring the Jedi Order. Nevertheless, even after aligning with the light, she remained aware of the dark side’s lingering influence. Unfortunately, family turmoil would ultimately lead her to confront her own nephew, Jacen, with dire consequences.

5. Ben Skywalker (Luke’s Son)

Trained to Embrace Darkness By Family

Ben Skywalker, son of Luke, grew up in a world overshadowed by conflict. Surrounded by legacy and expectation, he developed a close relationship with his cousin Jacen, who gradually drew him into the dark side’s allure.Ben’s training inadvertently exposed him to dark-side methodologies during this tumultuous period. Ultimately, he rejected these influences and emerged as a pivotal force for good during moments of galactic crisis.

6. Kol Skywalker

A Good Heart With a Dark Fighting Style

Star Wars' Kol Skywalker with other Jedi Knights behind him on a lush world.

In the decades following the Battle of Yavin, Kol Skywalker emerged as a renowned Jedi. Nevertheless, like many of his forebears, Kol faced trials of faith and morality as the galaxy spiraled toward chaos. Compelled to wield power aggressively against enemies, he often flirted with dark-side tactics while striving to maintain his core values. In a selfless act, he sacrificed his life for the greater good, ultimately returning as a guiding Force ghost for his son.

7. Cade Skywalker

One Who Truly Walks Both Sides of the Force

Cade Skywalker's friend trying to talk him out of using Death Sticks in Star Wars.

Cade Skywalker, son of Kol, bears the weight of family legacy and tragedy. Following his father’s death, he took a dark turn, seeking revenge against his father’s enemies. His journey led him to train under Darth Krayt, where he embraced the dark side yet struggled with his identity. In a dramatic turnaround, Cade ultimately severed ties with the Sith, illustrating a complex relationship with both sides of the Force as he fought to establish his own legacy.

8. Ben Solo/Kylo Ren

The Real Heir to the Skywalker Legacy

Lastly, we turn to Ben Solo, better known as Kylo Ren, whose character has developed significantly within the recent canon. Much like his ancestors, Ben possesses immense Force sensitivity coupled with emotional turmoil. His struggle for identity was exacerbated by Palpatine’s manipulations, leading him to believe the dark side could offer salvation.Despite the legacy of the Skywalker family weighing heavily on him, his quest for acceptance drives his choices, aligning him more closely with the darker aspects of the Force.

In conclusion, the Skywalker family highlights a profound narrative of power, temptation, and the constant battle between light and dark. This lineage proves that exceptional talent and great responsibility often come with formidable challenges.

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