One of the most compelling elements of the Star Wars sequel trilogy (2015’s The Force Awakens, 2017’s The Last Jedi, and 2019’s The Rise of Skywalker) is the dynamic, complicated connection between the First Order’s Kylo Ren and Jakuu scavenger Rey, who aligns with the Resistance. While Kylo projects a cold, calculating demeanor, he is torn apart by his real identity. Beneath the mask, he is still Ben Solo, the son of Princess-turned-Senator-turned-General and smuggler Han Solo, a young man struggling to find his place in a galaxy torn apart by war. This search for identity is also familiar to Rey, who was—to the best of her knowledge—abandoned by her family on the desert planet Jakku. With no knowledge of who her family is or where she truly belongs, Rey is also coping with feeling untethered and lost.
Through telepathic conversations using the Force, Rey and Ben come to an understanding of one another, seeing the parallels in their stories despite incredible differences in ideology. Rey recognizes Ben’s inner conflict and encourages him toward the light while Ben seeks a companion to join him in the dark. Ultimately, their relationship is revealed to be a prophecy brought to fruition.
Warning: The following article contains major spoilers for the Star Wars franchise. Please note that this character guide is based on the current canon as defined by Lucasfilm.
What is a Force dyad?
A Force dyad is the name given to a pair of Force-sensitive beings who are united in the Force and capable of feats including Force-healing and telepathic and sensory communication across lightyears. The existence of such a coupling was prophesied for generations, denoted in runes left by the Sith Eternal, but yet to be fulfilled until Rey and Ben Solo crossed paths.
As demonstrated by Rey and Kylo Ren/Ben Solo throughout The Last Jedi and The Rise of Skywalker, a Force dyad wields immense power. Capable of communicating with one another telepathically from different points in the galaxy, sensing their partner’s surroundings and emotions, healing wounds, and even resurrecting the dead, the abilities of those in a dyad are truly remarkable—and thus desired by those with ill-intent. At the conclusion of Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker, the reincarnated Emperor Palpatine (also known as Sith Lord Darth Sidious) faces off with Rey and Ben (who has since renounced the moniker of Kylo Ren). Palpatine begins to drain the pair of their spirits in an attempt to restore his power. Upon feeling the strength of their united energy, Palpatine remarks: “The lifeforce of your bond—a dyad in the Force. A power like life itself, unseen for generations.”
