Ryan and John devote this episode to exploring Kylo Ren and the possibilities for his character in Episode IX. We look at:

• Who Is Kylo Ren?
  • the complexities of his character
  • abandonment and perceived betrayal as the genesis of his rage
• The Case for Kylo’s Redemption
  • J.J. and Rian’s possible foreshadowing in TFA and TLJ
  • Leia’s role in Kylo’s future
  • His importance to the Skywalker Saga
• The Case Against Redemption
  • Kylo’s choice to refuse redemption in TLJ
  • J.J.’s 2016 comments that “deep down he’s gone too far”
  • The weight of Kylo’s previous atrocities
  • The fact that Episode IX being the end of the Skywalker saga suggests it might also be the end of Skywalkers in general

Listen:

We celebrate Episode IX’s first day of shooting (today!) by breaking down last week’s wonderful cast announcement press release. We share our thoughts on the returning cast, the newly announced actors joining the fold, and J.J. and Lucasfilm’s beautiful statement and plan for including Carrie Fisher and Princess Leia in the final installment of the Skywalker Saga.

Listen: