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Star Wars: The Rise Of Skywalker Fans Are Freaking Out Over The Emperor’s Return

As you’re likely well aware by now, the first trailer for Star Wars: Episode IX – or as it’s now officially known, Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker – is finally with us. And while the new footage is predictably short on plot details, the teaser did come packed with at least one bombshell.

Emperor Palpatine Star Wars

As you’re likely well aware by now, the first trailer for Star Wars: Episode IX – or as it’s now officially known, Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker – is finally with us. And while the new footage is predictably short on plot details, the teaser did come packed with at least one bombshell.

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We are, of course, referring to the return of Emperor Palpatine, whose distinctive laugh is heard in the final seconds of the preview. While we have virtually no idea how the biggest villain of the franchise is back in the fold, the fans are pretty ecstatic to have Ian McDiarmid reprise his role, and many have taken to Twitter to share their excitement:

https://twitter.com/WorldWideWob/status/1116768650277552128

https://twitter.com/thumosren/status/1116765185774182401

After keeping this reveal under wraps for so long, you can just picture the big grin on J.J. Abrams’ face as he watches the internet react. All this, and we’ve yet to see a single frame of McDiarmid wearing the hood once more.

While today’s trailer gave us a lot to process, the only other big reveal that came close to rivalling Palpatine’s return was surely the film’s official subtitle. The Rise of Skywalker is certainly a curious name that seems designed to get the fans speculating on who the “Skywalker” in question could be.

One theory that’s already emerged is that Kylo Ren might reconnect with his Jedi ancestry and turn back to light side. Alternatively, some fans suspect that Abrams may retcon the reveal of Rey’s parents, and decide that she’s a Skywalker after all. Then again, some are suggesting that “Skywalker” isn’t a person at all, but a new order that takes inspiration from Luke’s legacy and teachings. No doubt the speculation will continue right up until the day that Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker hits theaters on December 20th.