Han Solo and Princess Leia Organa stand out as iconic figures from the Star Wars original trilogy, often regarded as the quintessential couple within the expansive galaxy. Their love story—depicting the union of a rebellious princess and a charming rogue—seems like a fairytale. Yet, fans may be shocked to learn that after their romantic union in Return of the Jedi, the joy was fleeting. This poignant reality adds layers of tragedy to their narrative.
In the newly released comic, Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku – Last Stand (2024) #1, created by the talented team of Alex Segura, Jethro Morales, Jim Campbell, and Joe Caramagna, readers witness Leia in an unexpected state—pregnant and facing near-fatal danger from an assassination attempt orchestrated by the Acolytes of the Beyond. While it’s established that Leia gives birth to Ben Solo on the day the Empire capitulates to the New Republic, the events surrounding the Battle of Jakku lead us to anticipate his arrival, leaving me uneasy about the consequences that follow.
The Impact of Ben Solo’s Birth on Han and Leia
In the aftermath of the original trilogy, we see Leia thriving in her political role within the New Republic, while Han showcases his unmatched skills in field operations alongside Chewbacca. After the downfall of the second Death Star, their paths diverged temporarily as Leia dedicated herself to establishing the New Republic, and Han assisted in liberating Kashyyyk from Imperial rule. Fortunately, the couple reunited during the pivotal Battle of Jakku, shortly leading to Ben’s birth.
During this time, Han embarked on a mission with Lando Calrissian to rescue Cloud City. Upon returning, he made a solemn promise to both Leia and their unborn child to prioritize family. Initially, Han grappled with the challenges of fatherhood, feeling overshadowed by Leia’s connection to Ben via the Force. However, Leia guided him to realize that love alone was sufficient to forge their bond, leading to heartwarming moments as they embraced their roles as parents. Yet, this glimpse of happiness only deepens the sorrow regarding the impending separation.
The Heartbreaking Separation of Han and Leia
Ben Solo, inheriting his Force sensitivity from Leia, began to exhibit his powers as a toddler. As he matured, he wrestled with his inner darkness before being sent to study under Luke Skywalker at age ten. The tragedy unfolds in The Force Awakens, where we discover Han and Leia’s relationship deteriorated after Ben was sent away, leading Leia back into the realm of politics and Han reverting to smuggling. Remarkably, Ben’s birth occurred just a year post their wedding, resulting in a relationship that lasted a mere eleven years—a heartbreaking realization for dedicated fans.
Upon the conclusion of Return of the Jedi, I clung to the hope that Han and Leia would embark on a lifelong journey together. Unbeknownst to many, the canon revealed a darker plot twist, exposing a reality where they remained separated significantly longer. From 15 BBY to 34 BBY, they spent nineteen years in disunity, overshadowing the brief happy moments they had as a couple.
The Shadow of Emperor Palpatine’s Influence
Han Solo and Princess Leia fought valiantly side by side against Emperor Palpatine for five consecutive years, culminating in what they believed to be victory. They celebrated their union with marriage and welcomed their son, Ben Solo. Tragically, the very enemy that forged their bond—Palpatine—ultimately became the catalyst for their family’s downfall. One can only ponder: was Ben the only thread connecting Han and Leia in their tumultuous journey?
In the wake of the original trilogy, fans cherished the possibility of a happily ever after for the beloved couple. Beth Revis’ The Princess and the Scoundrel beautifully illustrated their wedding and honeymoon, infused with the essence of true love reminiscent of fairy tales. Yet, the arrival of Ben Solo unveiled the painful truth: the darkness he inherited ultimately drove a wedge between Han and Leia, leading to Han’s tragic demise. This bitter reality remains an indelible part of the Star Wars saga.
Be sure to check out Star Wars: The Battle of Jakku – Last Stand #1, available now from Marvel Comics, for further exploration of these beloved characters and their storyline.
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