Marvel’s Long-Awaited Adaptation of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker Includes Surprising Deleted Scenes

If you’re still processing the events of Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker from 2019 (and personally, I didn’t mind it), it’s time to revisit the galaxy far, far away. Marvel Comics has just revealed they’re diving back into this universe with a comic book adaptation of the movie. It may have taken over five years since its theatrical release, but the wait might just be worth it.

The comic series is being crafted by Jody Houser, known for her work on Doctor Who and Star Wars: Thrawn, and it features the talents of artist Will Sliney, who previously worked on Star Wars: The Rise of Kylo Ren and Ben Reilly: Scarlet Spider. This limited series, which was originally announced way back in 2020, is set to run for five issues and will include some never-before-seen scenes—perhaps making up for the extensive delay.

Now, according to Marvel’s latest update, this five-part series will finally see the light of day on February 26. This release will follow hot on the heels of the Star Wars: Legacy of Vader series, debuting earlier in the same month, on February 5. Fans of Kylo Ren, rejoice—there’s plenty to look forward to, even if the character, portrayed by Adam Driver, isn’t making any new appearances just yet.

One intriguing tidbit from Marvel’s announcement comes from editor Mark Paniccia, who mentions a growing demand among fans for more stories featuring characters introduced in 2015’s The Force Awakens. There’s a particular buzz around Kylo Ren, given his connection as Darth Vader’s descendant. While resurrecting Ben Solo for new stories might be a complex task, it seems Disney and Lucasfilm are paying attention, and rumors suggest Daisy Ridley’s Rey may hold the key to Star Wars’s cinematic future. At least one film focusing on her character is officially in development.

Check out the stunning cover for the first issue, showcasing Kylo Ren and his team of Knights of Ren, illustrated by Phil Noto. There’s also a beautiful variant cover by Brian Stelfreeze that highlights the Resistance heroes:

Fans are already familiar with the plot, but here’s how Marvel is setting the stage for February’s release: "As the Resistance grapples with the First Order’s oppressive control, Poe Dameron uncovers a staggering threat. With the fate of the galaxy in jeopardy, Rey embarks on a perilous journey to a hidden Sith stronghold, setting up a dramatic encounter with Kylo Ren. With time running out, will our heroes thwart the FINAL ORDER’s catastrophic plan?"

Even after all these years and the heated debates over the Star Wars sequels, this comic adaptation probably won’t change any minds overnight. However, completing the trilogy in comic book form fills a notable gap, and who doesn’t enjoy a peek at deleted scenes? Here’s hoping that massive baby with the spider alien on its head makes an appearance—fans like me can’t wait to see it.