How Could Luke Skywalker Appear in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker When He Is Dead?

Luke Skywalker's appearance in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker left many fans scratching their heads, particularly given his death in The Last Jedi. However, Star Wars lore and The Rise of Skywalker itself provide some intriguing answers and explanations for Luke's presence in the final film. This article delves into the various possibilities and explores how his death doesn't equate to his absence from the narrative.

Force Ghosts: An Established Phenomenon in the Star Wars Universe

In the Star Wars universe, the concept of Force Ghosts has been a well-established phenomenon. These incorporeal beings are manifestations of highly skilled Jedi who die and exist in a spiritual form, capable of guidance and sometimes physical interaction. The existence of Force Ghosts was first hinted at in A New Hope, but it was more explicitly showcased in subsequent films and episodes of The Clone Wars.

Obi-Wan and Yoda as Precedents

Two prime examples of Force Ghosts are Obi-Wan Kenobi and Yoda, who both made significant appearances after their respective deaths. Obi-Wan's spirit assisted Luke in the events of The Empire Strikes Back and The Return of the Jedi, while Yoda visited Luke in The Last Jedi to impart wisdom and advice. Even though Obi-Wan died in A New Hope and Yoda passed away in Return of the Jedi, both managed to continue influencing the story from beyond the grave.

Luke Skywalker's Death and Reappearance in The Rise of Skywalker

Following his death in The Last Jedi, the scenes where Luke appears in The Rise of Skywalker can be interpreted through the lens of the Force Ghost phenomenon. In the film, Luke can be seen in flashbacks, as a hologram, or even as a Force Ghost. The most convincing explanation is that his death resulted in his ascension to the realm of Force Ghosts, allowing him to reappear in crucial moments to provide guidance and wisdom.

Given the nature of the Force Ghosts and the backstory provided in the Star Wars saga, it's not a stretch to imagine Luke reappearing as a Force Ghost to play a pivotal role in the final battle against the First Order. His final scene in The Last Jedi significantly hints at this, as his robe fades away, symbolizing his transition to a spiritual existence.

Questioning Palpatine's Physical State

It's worth noting that Palpatine, the Emperor, also appears in a physically alive state, which raises intriguing questions about the nature of life and death in the Star Wars universe. Despite his apparent death in Revenge of the Sith, Palpatine reappeared in The Rise of Skywalker, continuing his manipulative efforts. This further blurs the lines between physical and spiritual existence in the Star Wars world.

The narrative of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker showcases how established lore and the flexibility of screenwriting allow for the intricate blending of life and death. Characters like Obi-Wan, Yoda, and now Luke Skywalker can transcend the boundaries of death to remain influential, adding depth and richness to the storytelling.

Conclusion

In the Star Wars universe, the concept of Force Ghosts provides a logical and established framework for characters to appear after their apparent deaths. Luke Skywalker's presence in The Rise of Skywalker can be explained through this phenomenon, reinforcing the idea that dying is not the end in this magical and mystical universe. The narrative flexibility allows for the continuation of these beloved characters, ensuring that their legacies live on in the hearts of fans.