Mark Hamill Reveals His Unused Sad Backstory for Luke Skywalker & It’s Perfect

Star Wars icon Mark Hamill recently reflected on the alternate backstory he created for Luke Skywalker during the making of The Last Jedi. In a recent interview, Hamill revealed the deeply tragic scenario he imagined to justify Luke’s exile, why he disagreed with the film’s official direction, and how he reconciled his portrayal of the Jedi Master with Rian Johnson’s vision for the character.

Mark Hamill reveals alternate idea for Luke Skywalker’s Star Wars backstory

Speaking on the Bullseye with Jesse Thorn podcast, Hamill explained that to rationalize Luke’s disillusionment with the Jedi, he created a personal narrative in which Luke gives up the Force after a family tragedy.

“I thought, what could make someone give up a devotion to what is basically a religious entity, to give up being a Jedi,” Hamill said. “Well, the love of a woman. So, he falls in love with a woman. He gives up being a Jedi. They have a child together. At some point the child, as a toddler, picks up an unattended lightsaber, pushes the button, and is killed instantly…The wife is so full of grief, she kills herself.”

This version contrasts with Rian Johnson’s film, in which Luke retreats to Ahch-To after briefly contemplating killing his nephew Ben Solo, after sensing darkness in him. Though he does not act, the moment severs their bond and contributes to Ben’s transformation into Kylo Ren. Luke’s sense of failure drives him to conclude the Jedi Order must end, leading to his exile.

Hamill expressed his disagreement with the official storyline during production. He said he told Johnson, “Rian, I saw entire planets get wiped out. If anything, Luke doubles down and it hardens his resolve in the face of adversity.” Despite this, Hamill later acknowledged he should have remained silent about his concerns.

He also stated in a separate interview that he is unlikely to return to the franchise. “My deal is, I had my time. I’m appreciative of that, but I really think they should focus on the future and all the new characters.”

Originally reported by Anubhav Chaudhry on SuperHeroHype.

Source: Comingsoon.net