Trigger: KREN, KREN man
Ben Solo, later known as Kylo Ren, emerged as one of the most complex characters in the Star Wars sequel trilogy. Born to Han Solo and Leia Organa, he entered the world on the same day the New Republic and Empire signed the Galactic Concordance[5].
Early Life
Ben Solo showed tremendous Force sensitivity from a young age and was primarily raised by nanny droids while his parents focused on their respective duties[3]. He maintained close relationships with family friends Chewbacca and Lando Calrissian, whom he called "uncles"[4].
Fall to the Dark Side
At a young age, Ben began training under his uncle Luke Skywalker as a Jedi apprentice. However, Supreme Leader Snoke, secretly a puppet of Emperor Palpatine, began influencing him through the Force[1]. His turn to the dark side was precipitated by several factors:
- The discovery that Darth Vader was his grandfather, a truth his family had hidden from him[4]
- Luke's momentary consideration of killing him after sensing darkness within him
- Snoke's continuous manipulation of his vulnerable psyche[1]
Rise of Kylo Ren
After leaving Luke's Jedi Temple, Ben Solo assumed the identity of Kylo Ren and became leader of the Knights of Ren[2]. He rose to become a commander in the First Order and apprentice to Supreme Leader Snoke[1].
Connection with Rey
Kylo Ren shared a unique Force dyad with Rey, making them incredibly powerful when united[1]. This connection ultimately played a crucial role in his redemption. After helping Rey defeat the resurrected Emperor Palpatine, he sacrificed his life force to revive her, dying as Ben Solo rather than Kylo Ren[1].
Legacy
Though his time as Kylo Ren lasted only about six years before the events of The Force Awakens, his impact on the galaxy was significant[4]. His journey from darkness to redemption mirrors but distinctly differs from his grandfather Darth Vader's path, marking him as one of the most compelling characters in the Star Wars universe[2].
Citations:
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kylo_Ren
[2] https://www.starwars.com/databank/kylo-ren
[3] https://www.cbr.com/star-wars-ben-solo-kylo-ren-backstory-trivia-facts/
[4] https://gamerant.com/star-wars-history-kylo-ren-before-sequel-trilogy/
[5] https://screenrant.com/star-wars-kylo-ren-ben-solo-backstory-explained/