Have you ever contemplated the extent of Darth Vader’s hatred for his superior, Emperor Palpatine? Vader’s animosity transcended mere displeasure, manifesting in numerous direct attempts to assassinate the Emperor. Even before Luke Skywalker emerged as a beacon of hope, the groundwork for Palpatine’s impending failure was laid by Vader’s persistent defiance.
The comic series Darth Vader (2020) created by Greg Pak and illustrated by Raffaele Ienco vividly illustrates Vader’s bold motives and encounters aimed at overthrowing Palpatine. In fact, it is Vader’s internal struggle—rather than Luke’s intervention—that serves as the driving factor behind Palpatine’s eventual defeat.
Prepare for an exploration of themes including betrayal, intense confrontations, and the fierce ambition that propelled Darth Vader toward multiple assassination plots against Palpatine. Here are five notable instances when Vader actively sought to eliminate the Emperor well before Luke’s ascension.
After Discovering Palpatine’s Deception About Padmé’s Death
Darth Vader (2020) Issues #6-10
In the aftermath of Empire Strikes Back and the startling revelation that his son with Padmé survived, Vader becomes fixated on uncovering the truth behind Padmé’s demise. His journey of discovery, propelled by his interactions with Padmé’s former handmaidens, ultimately unveils how Palpatine orchestrated the tragic events surrounding Padmé’s death. Vader learns that the Emperor played a significant role in Padmé’s downfall, shattering the earlier fiction that he alone bore the blame.
In a whirlwind of grief and anger, Vader directly confronts Palpatine in a fierce and emotional battle. This clash is not just a test of power; it’s an all-out assault backed by Vader’s formidable Force abilities. Vader channels his rage toward Palpatine, but the Emperor, skilled in the dark side of the Force, coolly anticipates every move, countering with devastating Force lightning that not only incapacitates Vader but also destroys his spirit, further establishing Palpatine’s dominion over him.
On Coruscant During the Scourge Attack
Darth Vader #40
In this encounter, while Vader demonstrates his strength with the Force, the interaction is predominantly characterized by Palpatine’s verbal dominance. There are no dramatic lightsaber duels; instead, Palpatine effortlessly counters Vader’s attacks, simultaneously delving into Vader’s psyche to undermine his confidence. Palpatine makes it clear: he is the master, and Vader remains the apprentice, regardless of Vader’s burgeoning power and rebellious thoughts. The confrontation becomes more a battle of wills than a physical confrontation, emphasizing Palpatine’s psychological control over Vader.
Dark Droids Crossover Event
Darth Vader (2020) Issues #12-17
During this narrative arc, Vader does not openly challenge Palpatine or engage in direct combat. In fact, the Emperor is not even physically present. However, the emergence of Scourge, a lethal AI transforming droids into ruthless machines, sparks ideas in Vader’s mind on how to secretly overthrow Palpatine and usurp the Empire itself. It’s important to note that Vader’s ambitions stem from personal animosity rather than noble intentions for the galaxy.
This arc offers a glimpse back to Anakin Skywalker, whose early fascination with constructing droids resurfaces as Vader seeks to reprogram Scourge’s technologies to serve his own purposes against Palpatine.
Throughout this narrative, Vader’s internal dialogues reveal his deep-seated resentment and strategic calculations as he evaluates potential moves to unseat Palpatine. The Scourge represents not just a threat but a unique opportunity, showcasing Vader’s ingenuity in repurposing technology for his gain.
On the Outer Rim Planet of Caranthanax B
Darth Vader (2020) #50
The confrontation on Caranthanax B may not feature a protracted physical battle, but it proves to be one of Vader’s most psychologically damaging experiences. Similar to their earlier encounter on Coruscant, Palpatine wields the Force to launch a mental and emotional assault on Vader, taunting him with past failures and the dark deeds he has committed. Palpatine reaffirms his unwavering control and superiority, dismantling all of Vader’s amassed power and alliances, effectively quelling any revolt before it can begin.