Star Wars Reveals Kylo Ren’s Connection to Order 66, Creating a “Mirror” Image of Darth Vader

Marvel’s Star Wars comics are enriching fans’ perception of the Sequel Trilogy. The forthcoming Legacy of Vader miniseries delves into Kylo Ren’s intricate relationship with his heritage, incorporating significant figures such as his infamous grandfather, Darth Vader, his parents, Han Solo and Leia Organa, as well as his uncle, Luke Skywalker, who once fought to save the galaxy.

Kylo Ren immerses himself in the ideals that Vader championed, convinced he is destined to complete his grandfather’s legacy.

Insights from Writer Charles Soule on Kylo Ren’s Journey

The cover art for Star Wars: Legacy of Vader #1

In a recent interview on the YouTube channel Star Wars Explained, writer Charles Soule discussed the motivations behind Kylo Ren in the new series, Star Wars: Legacy of Vader:

[…] There’s a point where Kylo Ren decides he needs to face a Jedi after what happened with Luke, so he goes on the search for any possible Order 66 survivors, which is a plot point that I think is really rich to think about and explore this far after Order 66. It’s kind of a fun mirror of Vader.

Following the execution of Order 66 — which mandated Clone Troopers to eradicate the Jedi — Anakin Skywalker, under his new identity as Darth Vader, launched a relentless pursuit of the remaining Jedi. With the aid of the Inquisitors, he eliminated a significant number, yet several survivors, notably his former apprentice Ahsoka Tano and his mentor Obi-Wan Kenobi, slipped through his grasp, perpetually shadowing Vader.

Soule’s mention of “after what happened with Luke”likely alludes to the flashback scenes in the Sequel Trilogy. In these events, Kylo Ren, then known as Ben Solo, trained at Luke’s Jedi Academy during the rebuilding era of the New Republic. Over time, however, Ben succumbed to the Dark Side, demolishing Luke’s academy and claiming the lives of his fellow trainees. This destructive act draws a chilling parallel to Anakin’s infamous massacre of the younglings upon his transformation into Darth Vader.

Exploring Kylo Ren and Darth Vader: Parallels and Divergences

The Importance of the Order 66 Connection in Legacy of Vader

As Vader relentlessly hunted down Jedi who resisted the Dark Side, it remains to be seen whether Kylo Ren will engage in a similar campaign of violence. Marvel’s Legacy of Vader could potentially navigate a different path for Ren. While it’s clear that Kylo Ren is fueled by vengeance and rage—traits akin to his grandfather—Vader possessed a strategic advantage stemming from his experience as a distinguished General during the Clone Wars. In contrast, Kylo Ren’s lack of military prowess often manifests in his impulsive and erratic actions.

For additional insights, you can watch the full interview on Star Wars Explained’s YouTube channel.

Star Wars: Legacy of Vader #1 is set to be released on February 5, 2025, by Marvel Comics.