Darth Vader – raising terror across the galaxy
Notorious Sith Lord, Darth Vader first appeared on movie screens in Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope, in 1977. He was soon revealed to be a ruthless villain, determined to hunt down enemies of the Empire. Under the instruction of the evil Galactic Emperor Palpatine, Vader strikes fear into everyone he meets with his mysterious mask and mechanical breathing.But it was in Star Wars: Episode VI Return of the Jedi, that fans finally saw the man behind the mask. In moving scenes, we discovered that despite his fearsome character, Darth Vader had never fully forgotten the light side of the Force.
As one of the world’s most iconic villains, Darth Vader is a popular character in Star Wars merchandise, with Darth Vader toys, action figures and LEGO® gift sets popular with Star Wars fans, young and old.
It was prophesized that Anakin Skywalker would become one of the most powerful Jedi ever. But after being tempted to the dark side, believing it the only way to save his wife Padmé Amidala from death, Anakin’s transformation into Darth Vader begins.
After a lengthy Lightsaber battle with his former Master, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Anakin is left close to death, badly injured with horrific burns. After finding Anakin, Emperor Palpatine encases him in black armor and a mask to keep him alive – finally transforming Anakin into Darth Vader.
After his death, Vader – now Anakin Skywalker once more – is at one with the Force and is reunited with his old friends Yoda and Obi-Wan Kenobi.