Defending Rey as a “Palpatine” in Star Wars

The reveal in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker that Rey Skywalker is a descendant of Emperor Palpatine remains one of the most contentious narrative choices in the franchise’s history. However, five years post-release, I’ve grown to appreciate this development. While The Rise of Skywalker struggled with coherence due to the sequel trilogy shifting leadership multiple times, the intentions behind resurrecting Palpatine were clear, albeit controversial.

This creative decision certainly sparked fierce debate, particularly in response to Rey’s lineage unveiling. Many fans argue that Rey, by blood, does not merit the Skywalker name. Nonetheless, I have found value in the identity of “Rey Palpatine”over time, as it brings forth discussions surrounding legacy and choice.

“Rey Palpatine”Reinforces the Core Message of Star Wars

Rey “Nobody”Was an Ideal Choice, Yet Rey Palpatine Still Resonates

Rey stands before Emperor Palpatine in The Rise of Skywalker

While I initially preferred the notion introduced in Star Wars: The Last Jedi that Rey was a ‘nobody,’ the narrative of a common hero offers an essential departure from the repetitive ties to the Skywalker lineage. The idea of Rey as “Rey from nowhere,”as articulated by Luke Skywalker, encapsulated the original concept of Star Wars: that heroes and villains can emerge from the most unexpected backgrounds.

This approach felt like a fulfilling acknowledgment of the saga’s promise, especially since Luke himself started as an ordinary moisture farmer from Tatooine. Yet the revelation of Rey’s Palpatine heritage somewhat negated this fresh perspective. Instead of carving her own path, Rey’s journey mirrored that of Luke’s, albeit with a compelling twist.

Given that I must accept the Palpatine connection, I consider it a fitting compromise. Rey’s identity as “a Palpatine”ironically amplifies the franchise’s core message. While her origins as a ‘nobody’ signified that heroes spring from all walks of life, the fact that Rey is a direct descendant of one of the most formidable Sith—yet still embraces the light—illustrates that anyone, regardless of their lineage, is capable of becoming a true hero.

The Name “Skywalker”Remains Valid Despite Rey’s Palpatine Bloodline

Rey’s Identities Should Reflect the Complexity of Her Origins

It is crucial to clarify that I do not subscribe to the view that Rey does not deserve her identity as a Skywalker. I fully embrace “Rey Skywalker”as her chosen name, acknowledging that within the Star Wars lore, characters have historically asserted their identities based on personal choices rather than solely their bloodlines—similar to Han Solo or Leia Organa.

Rey’s acceptance of her Palpatine origins does not infringe on her right to the Skywalker identity. Just as Leia, though a Skywalker by blood, identified herself as an Organa, Rey can simultaneously acknowledge her lineage while embodying the principles and legacy of the Skywalker family. Importantly, Rey’s connection to Palpatine is significant and adds depth to her character’s journey.

Rey’s Choice to Embrace Skywalker Over Palpatine is Profoundly Powerful

Honoring Anakin: Rey’s Embrace of the Skywalker Name

Hayden Christensen's Anakin Skywalker falls to the dark side

Rey’s decision to assume the name Skywalker serves as a poignant homage to Anakin Skywalker and the legacy associated with the Skywalker family, particularly given her ties to Palpatine. Faced with the profound temptation of the dark side, Rey had the potential to become the ultimate ruler of the Sith, a prospect that Palpatine dangled as a means to secure her power.

This temptation stands out as the most significant ever presented in the Star Wars narrative. Rather than succumbing to the lure of darkness, Rey consciously chose to reject both her Palpatine identity and the throne’s seduction, instead championing the values of the Skywalker name.

What makes this moment exceptionally poignant is its role in the broader conflict between the Skywalkers and Palpatine. With Rey’s choice, she effectively delivers the last word in a saga marked by manipulation and strife stemming from Palpatine’s pursuit of power. By discarding her Palpatine connection, she ensures that Destruction of the Palpatine legacy coincides with the vivacious continuation of the Skywalker name.

Acceptance of Her Origins: The Duality of Rey’s Identity

Lor San Tekka’s Insight: Embracing Family Truths

Moreover, it is essential for Rey to acknowledge her lineage without allowing it to confine her identity. As Lor San Tekka pointed out regarding Kylo Ren, Rey cannot escape the truth of her heritage. However, recognizing her Palpatine lineage does not prevent her from embracing the Skywalker value system. Instead, it enriches her character’s evolution.

Rey’s acknowledgment of her parents, Dathan and Miramir, who loved and sacrificed for her, deeply personalizes her journey. Their legacy is intertwined with Rey’s identity, and it serves as a testament to the dualities that define her character. While the debate over “Rey Skywalker”continues, her ties to “Rey Palpatine”undeniably add richness to her narrative.

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