Star Wars Scrapped Ambitious Plan to Turn Luke Skywalker Into the Second Darth Vader

This month marks the 40th anniversary of Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi, a film that would close a chapter in George Lucas' original Star Wars trilogy.

While ROTJ isn't exactly held in the highest of regard unlike A New Hope and The Empire Strikes Back, the film is still pivotal in what would later become the Skywalker Saga.

Serving as Anakin Skywalker's redemption, Return of the Jedi was pretty much centered on the Sith Lord luring his son Luke Skywalker in hopes of him turning to the dark side.

George Lucas Had Plans to Turn Luke Skywalker Into the Next Darth Vader.

Credit: Lucasfilm

Obviously, that wasn't to be and the father-and-son tandem would vanquish Emperor Palpatine (until at least his controversial The Rise of Skywalker return) and Luke would never join the Sith's cause.

Well, except he almost did. As crazy as that may sound, it turns out that the master plan to persuade Luke to join the dark side nearly came to fruition, with Return of the Jedi seeing the shocking ascension of Luke as Anakin's official successor.

According to newly-surfaced information surrounding Episode VI (via SFFGazette), Return of the Jedi originally had a much darker ending and George Lucas actually wanted Luke to become the new Darth Vader following his father's demise.

During a story session between Lucas and writer Lawrence Kasdan, the Star Wars creator said: "Luke takes his mask off. The mask is the very last thing - and then Luke puts it on and says, 'Now I am Vader.' Surprise! The ultimate twist. 'Now I will go and kill the [Rebel] fleet and I will rule the universe.'"

Surprisingly, Kasdan was apparently on board with the ambitious idea but it was ultimately scrapped due to the franchise being intended for children.

Also Read: Star Wars Fans Go Berserk as Luke Skywalker is Hailed the Sequel Trilogy's Main Villain

While Luke sticking to his principles was undoubtedly the right call, you can't deny that Lucas pulling a Death Star-sized swerve would have been game-changing, especially during the time.

We're not entirely sure though how that would have fared against Empire Strikes Back's mindblowing twist but hey, it's still a nice thought to ponder.

Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi is available to stream on Disney+.