Darth Vader
STAR WARS

Darth Vader

Portrayed by Hayden Christensen

Also played by David Prowse — The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi Also played by James Earl Jones (voice) — Return of the Jedi, Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, Star Wars Rebels, Obi-Wan Kenobi Also played by Spencer Wilding — Rogue One: A Star Wars Story Also played by Daniel Naprous — Rogue One: A Star Wars Story
Homeworld
Tatooine
Species
Human
Born
41 BBY, Tatooine
Gender
Male

Profile

Masters
Apprentices
Ahsoka Tano Corvax descendant
Born
41 BBY, Tatooine
Died
4 ABY,
Cybernetics
Cybernetic right arm; later prosthetic arms and legs, and a life-support system

About Darth Vader

Once a promising young Jedi Knight named Anakin Skywalker, this fallen hero became one of the galaxy’s most feared enforcers after succumbing to the dark side of the Force. Born into slavery on the desert planet Tatooine, he demonstrated extraordinary piloting skills and an unprecedented connection to the Force that caught the attention of Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn. Despite initial resistance from the Jedi Council due to his age and emotional attachments, he eventually received training under Obi-Wan Kenobi.

The Clone Wars marked a turning point in his life, as he served alongside clone troopers and commanded respect as a brilliant military tactician. However, his secret marriage to Senator Padmé Amidala and growing frustration with the Jedi Order’s rigid doctrine created internal conflict. Manipulated by Emperor Palpatine’s promises of power to save those he loved, he betrayed the Jedi and helped orchestrate their destruction during Order 66.

A catastrophic lightsabre duel with his former master on the volcanic world of Mustafar left him severely injured, requiring extensive cybernetic reconstruction and a distinctive life-support suit. Encased in black armour and breathing apparatus, he emerged as the Emperor’s right hand, hunting down surviving Jedi with ruthless efficiency. His mechanical breathing and towering presence became synonymous with Imperial authority across the galaxy.

Despite decades of serving the dark side, a spark of his former self remained buried beneath the machinery and hatred. This ultimately led to his redemption when he sacrificed himself to save his son, Luke Skywalker, finally fulfilling the prophecy of bringing balance to the Force.

Appearances

  • The Empire Strikes Back Film
  • Return of the Jedi Film
  • Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith Film
  • Star Wars Rebels TV
  • Rogue One: A Star Wars Story Film
  • Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker Film
  • Obi-Wan Kenobi TV
  • Star Wars Film

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Darth Vader's real identity?
Darth Vader is Anakin Skywalker, a former Jedi Knight who turned to the dark side of the Force.
How did Darth Vader become a cyborg?
Vader was severely injured in a lightsaber duel with Obi-Wan Kenobi on Mustafar, requiring extensive cybernetic implants and a life-support suit to survive.
Who are Darth Vader's children?
Darth Vader's children are Luke Skywalker and Leia Organa, twins he had with Padmu00e9 Amidala.
How does Darth Vader die?
Vader dies saving his son Luke from Emperor Palpatine's Force lightning, sustaining fatal damage to his life-support systems in the process.
Who was Darth Vader's Jedi master?
Obi-Wan Kenobi was Anakin Skywalker's Jedi master, not Qui-Gon Jinn who died before completing his training.
What is Darth Vader's role in the Galactic Empire?
Darth Vader serves as the Emperor's enforcer and second-in-command, hunting down remaining Jedi and crushing rebellion against the Empire.