Would Darth Vader Have Died Naturally by the Time of The Last Jedi?
The question often arises among Star Wars fans as to whether Darth Vader would have lived long enough to reach the events of The Last Jedi. While there's no definitive answer, we can explore the various factors that might have contributed to his longevity or hastened his end.
Biological and Technological Considerations
Count Dooku once said that it takes great strength to stay alive through the Force, indicating that the power of the dark side can preserve life beyond natural means. However, it's equally plausible that once Darth Vader reached his 70s or even 80s, his cybernetic enhancements wouldn't be enough to sustain him. His damaged lungs, which were already weakened, would likely deteriorate even more over time. This could make it increasingly difficult for him to survive.
Lucasfilm has been known to creatively solve such conundrums, as evidenced by their approach to characters like Mace Windu and Carness Fett surviving well past their natural lifespan. If the Star Wars universe had encountered a similar challenge, they likely would have found a way to keep him alive, perhaps through advanced medical technology or extended genetic manipulation. However, from a character-driven perspective, the natural progression of aging and the weakening of his body would be a more poignant narrative.
The Moral and Plot Dynamics
The beats of the plot in The Last Jedi are deeply intertwined with Vader's character and his role in the Skywalker saga. Should he have lived, he may have remained a constant threat, causing tension and conflict within the remnants of the First Order and the New Republic. This could have undermined the new heroes' efforts and potentially destabilized the galaxy.
Vader's death in The Rise of Skywalker serves a clear narrative purpose: it resolves the ongoing conflict between the light and dark sides, providing a sense of closure to Anakin Skywalker's arc. His death allows the series to move past his narrative, allowing Kylo Ren and other characters to take center stage. It also serves as a crucial moment in the redemption arc of Rey, Luke, and the other protagonists.
The Technical Aspects and Character Aging
Assuming that the events on the second Death Star had played out differently and Vader's life support suit had not been damaged by the Force lightning, he might have survived an additional 30 years. Given that Anakin was in his mid-40s when he died in Return of the Jedi, adding another 30 years would place him in his mid-70s. However, this is purely speculative, as it assumes no further complications with his suit or additional health problems. His continued existence would depend on the effectiveness of the life support systems and his ability to heal from any existing injuries.
Ultimately, while the Star Wars universe has a history of bending the laws of nature for character needs, the story's drama and thematic resolution favor Vader's death at a later age. This allows for a more satisfying denouement in the saga and sets the stage for a new generation of heroes to carry on the fight for justice and light.