The upcoming Star Wars: Episode IX has already been confirmed to be the final film in the Skywalker Saga. Unfortunately, the movie will continue without Luke Skywalker, who was killed off in Star Wars: The Last Jedi.
But could things have turned out differently if George Lucas was still involved? It has been revealed that the Star Wars creator already had plans for Episode IX while he was still working on the original trilogy. Needless to say, Lucas had planned a completely different conclusion for the saga.
According to ScreenRant, Lucas had wanted Luke to face off against Emperor Palpatine in Episode IX. The Emperor was originally meant to be unveiled as the Big Bad behind Darth Vader and Luke was supposed to fight Palpatine in the climactic battle. Unfortunately, Lucas had to speed things up and have the Emperor killed by Darth Vader in Return of the Jedi.
The big reveal about Palpatine wasn't the only thing that could've taken place in the latter episodes. It was previously reported that The Empire Strikes Back producer Gary Kurtz shared an outline of what the nine Star Wars films will explore. For instance, Luke was supposed to train his sister (who is not Leia Organa in the original script) to become a Jedi Knight in Episode VIII.
Unfortunately, we will never see Lucas' plans come to light in the upcoming Episode IX. Without Luke or the Emperor, the final battle will undoubtedly focus on Rey and Kylo Ren instead.
Star Wars: Episode IX has not yet been given an official title although this could be announced this week. The film is scheduled for release on December 20.
Related: George Lucas Had Different Plans For Luke Skywalker's Sister, But Not Princess Leia
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