The Fall of Kylo Ren: New Star Wars Comic Expands the Villain’s Backstory

Lucasfilm announced a new five-issue comic series titled Star Wars: The Fall of Kylo Ren, scheduled to reach shelves on August 12. The series, written by Charles Soule and illustrated by Will Sliney, is set chronologically before *The Rise of Skywalker* and follows the events of the *Legacy of Vader* comic. In the narrative, Kylo Ren returns to the First Order to confront Generals Hux and Pryde, whose ambitions have destabilized the organization.

Gizmodo

Since his introduction, Kylo Ren (Ben Solo) has been explored primarily through the sequel film trilogy. Complementary storytelling in comics, notably the *Legacy of Vader* series and *The Rise of Kylo Ren* miniseries, has expanded his character arc beyond the screen. Soule and Sliney’s earlier collaboration on *The Rise of Kylo Ren* established a foundation for further exploration of Ren’s rise to power, internal conflicts, and leadership style within the First Order.

Gizmodo

Charles Soule, a veteran comic writer, leads the narrative development, while artist Will Sliney heads the visual team, supported by Luke Ross. Both creators have previously worked on Kylo Ren-focused projects, positioning them as primary architects of the character’s expanded lore.

Gizmodo

• Legacy of Vader (previous comic) – establishes early First Order dynamics.

Gizmodo

• The Rise of Kylo Ren (earlier miniseries) – depicts Ren’s ascent.

Gizmodo

• The Fall of Kylo Ren – slated for release August 12, set after *Legacy of Vader* and before *The Rise of Skywalker* opening scene.

Gizmodo

The series will be released in five monthly installments, concluding the pre-film storyline for Kylo Ren.

Gizmodo

Lucasfilm confirmed the series as part of its ongoing effort to deepen character backstories through comics. In a statement to IGN, Sliney expressed enthusiasm for returning to the project, noting the fan interest generated by their prior work. Soule highlighted the narrative potential remaining beyond the films, emphasizing the desire to explore untapped aspects of Kylo Ren’s journey. Both creators described the miniseries as the final piece needed to complete the pre-film arc.

Gizmodo

• “This is the one book I’ve been dying to get back on,” — Will Sliney, Artist, statement to IGN

Gizmodo

• “Ever since Charles and I worked on The Rise of Kylo Ren, we knew we were a part of something special. I’ve never experienced a fan gorup so excited for the story when we worked on Rise, and quietly behind the scenes, we’d been talking about Fall for a long, long time.” — Will Sliney, Artist

Gizmodo

• “Kylo’s story (and Ben Solo’s, of course) always felt huge to me,” — Charles Soule, Writer

Gizmodo

• “I’m thrilled I get to deliver new tales for one of Star Wars’ most prominent villains one more time. It was clear that a great deal was out there to explore beyond the moments provided by the films, and it’s been such a pleasure.” — Charles Soule, Writer

Gizmodo

• “bring Kylo to where he is when we see him in Rise of Skywalker’s opening scene. [Legacy] gave him clarity, and even a bit of happiness. Fall is the final piece of the puzzle.” — Charles Soule, Writer (newsletter)

Gizmodo

Following the August release, the series is expected to inform fan discussions about Kylo Ren’s motivations and the internal power dynamics of the First Order. Lucasfilm’s continued investment in comic-based storytelling suggests further expansions of secondary character arcs may be forthcoming.

Gizmodo