After destroying his mask out of frustration in Star Wars: The Last Jedi, Supreme Leader Kylo Ren decided to have it repaired in The Rise of Skywalker. The new helmet was pretty much identical to the original aside from the glowing red cracks, but it turns out an earlier version was far more heavily influenced by the iconic mask worn by Ren's late grandfather.
Concept designer and sculptor Luke Fisher shared some artwork to his Instagram page, giving us a look at one of his early designs for Kylo's redesigned helmet. As you can see, this version would have drawn inspiration from Darth Vader's look, with a more angular back panel, sharper mouth-guard, and buttons around the side.
"Kylo helmet concept for The Rise of Skywalkerm" Fisher wrote. "One of my 'Kylo Mk.2' versions, drawing closer on the Vader aesthetic."
Ben Solo if often referred to as the "ultimate Vader fanboy," and that's reflected in his outfit choices throughout the sequel trilogy. We think this might have been a little too on the nose, however!
What about you guys? Would you have preferred to see a more Darth Vader-like aesthetic in Ren's redesigned mask? Let us know in the comments, and be sure to check out some of the new Jedi characters from The High Republic below.
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Avar Kriss
Avar is the brightest, most noble example of Jedi-hood. She always tries to see the good in people and situations, and never puts herself first. She is invigorated about life on the frontier and the challenges it brings, and is an inspiration for those who work with her. She is compassionate, not dogmatic, and always ready to sacrifice herself over others. Avar Kriss is the best of the best.
Loden Greatstorm
Loden is a Twi’lek Jedi Master, and is considered to be one of the best teachers in the Jedi Order. Strong and wise, with a good sense of humor, Loden looks at every moment as a learning experience, always trying to better himself and those around him, especially his Padawans.
Keeve Trennis
Keeve is a young firebrand Jedi, believed to have a great future ahead of her, if only she would believe it herself. Quick-witted and more impulsive than she should be, Keeve has only been a Jedi Knight for a few weeks and is a little starstruck around Avar, knowing many of the great things Kriss has done in the past. She is determined to prove herself to Avar and the other legendary Jedi stationed on Starlight Beacon, but first she must learn to trust in herself as much as she trusts the Force.
Stellan Gios
Stellan is an optimistic and well-respected Jedi Master. Stellan came up through the Order with Avar Kriss, and although they are often on different assignments for the Jedi or the Republic, when the two work together they are a powerhouse team of two noble heroes in action. Strong in the Force and a natural teacher, Stellan is currently stationed at one of the Jedi Temple outposts on the distant planet of Caragon-Viner.
Vernestra “Vern” Rwoh
Vern is a newly-minted Jedi Knight. Vernestra, Mirialan, was Padawan to Stellan Gios. She works hard and is devoted to the Jedi Order, more so than most others her age. At sixteen she is one of the youngest Knights in a generation. She struggles to fit in with the adults while also setting a good example for the younger Jedi.