Within the expansive Star Wars universe, Luke Skywalker makes a poignant reference to Kylo Ren as his nephew, a moment that highlights the depths of his disconnection from his family. This mention, however brief, underscores the tragic arc that the Jedi Master undergoes throughout the saga. Notably, Kylo Ren’s character emerges in the final entries of the chronological timeline of Star Wars, which means that during the original trilogy, Luke had no awareness of Ben Solo, the child who would grow into his troubled nephew. Throughout the sequel trilogy, though, the bond between Luke and Kylo, or Ben Solo, takes a backseat to the larger narrative—a choice that surprised many fans.
One significant reason for this diminished emphasis is Luke’s decision to isolate himself during the events of Star Wars: The Force Awakens. With no direct interaction between Luke and Kylo in this film, the narrative instead dives deep into the father-son dynamics between Ben and Han Solo. The sequel, Star Wars: The Last Jedi, however, puts a spotlight on Luke, showcasing his personal struggles and concluding with his profound transformation before his eventual passing. Despite being surrounded by themes of family and legacy, Luke’s connection to Kylo Ren remains understated, sparking considerable debate among fans.
The Last Jedi Subtly Proved Luke Had Forgotten The Importance Of Family
Ben Solo Was Merely Kylo Ren to Luke For a Significant Period
Throughout much of Star Wars: The Last Jedi, it becomes evident that Luke has distanced himself from his familial ties. Opting for the solitude of Ahch-To, he appears resigned to let the Jedi Order perish alongside him. In doing so, Luke suppresses the significance of his family, particularly in relation to Ben Solo, whom he primarily acknowledges only through the lens of the dark side and his alter ego, Kylo Ren. Notably, Luke refers to Ben as his nephew only once, which occurs when he reflects on Ben’s legacy with the Skywalker lineage.
This singular moment occurs when Luke muses, “For many years, there was balance, and then I saw Ben. My nephew… with that mighty Skywalker blood.” This acknowledgment, however, stems not from a place of affection but rather from the burden of trauma and regret. Luke’s journey in The Last Jedi critiques the hubris inherent to the Jedi and the Skywalker legacy, suggesting that this powerful lineage presents dangers that can lead to catastrophic failures.
While Luke does mention Ben as his nephew, he ultimately uses this familial term to illustrate the potent and perilous nature of Skywalker blood. This framing removes any sense of emotional connection between them, emphasizing the narrative’s exploration of how familial bonds can turn into sources of conflict within the saga.
Luke Had Evolved into a True Jedi… But He Was No Longer Luke
As The Last Jedi Explores in Its Finale
This solitary reference illustrates that Luke has indeed become a true Jedi. In essence, he has distanced himself from his family ties, adhering to the Jedi doctrine that encourages relinquishing attachments. Yet, as Star Wars: The Last Jedi reveals, this detachment transforms him into a different figure than the Luke Skywalker we once knew; the hero from the original trilogy fought valiantly for his loved ones—Han, Leia, and even his father, Anakin, serving as his driving motivators in the battle against darkness.
In The Last Jedi, Luke’s grip on these core values falters due to his feelings of inadequacy and past traumas. However, by the film’s conclusion, he reclaims the essence of what it means to be a Jedi, facing Kylo and ultimately choosing to stand for his sister Leia and his newfound student Rey. Through this act of bravery, Star Wars: The Last Jedi successfully redeems the familiar Luke Skywalker by reminding audience members of the transformative power of family and connection.