5 Most Heartbreaking Moments From ‘Star Wars’ Saga

For several decades, "Star Wars" has become an iconic cultural phenomenon that influenced generations of audiences. Up until today, the franchise continues its profound impact on popular culture.

Starting with an unconventional timeline of events, George Lucas, creator of "Star Wars", managed to introduce a unique blend of science fiction, fantasy, and mythology. The 1977 film which was Episode IV of the saga, introduced us to the iconic characters from Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Darth Vader.

Over the years, the "Star Wars" franchise expanded from the original trilogy to a prequel trilogy, standalone films, and even series. Regardless, certain moments will forever be memorable to the fans due to their emotional impact.

Here are some of the most heartbreaking moments from the "Star Wars" franchise:

Duel of Fates from "Star Wars: Episode 1 - The Phantom Menace"

In the first episode of the prequel, we meet master Qui-Gon Jinn and his apprentice Obi-Wan Kenobi. Both Jedi Knights are forced to fight Darth Maul to overthrow the Trade Federation on the planet of Naboo.

The long and intense lightsaber duel between the three was accompanied by the "Duel of Fates" soundtrack, which made it more special and emotional. During the attack, Qui Gon eventually met his demise after being stabbed. Obi-Wan avenged his master's death and promised to train the young Anakin Skywalker.

Order 66 from "Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith"

Created under Darth Sidious's reign as Chancellor Palpatine, all clones are programmed to treat all Jedi as traitors to the Republic. Once activated, the Order 66 clones killed Jedi commanders such as Ki-Adi-Mundi, Aayla Secura, and Plo Koon.

This is considered a canon event for the saga as the Jedi Order was put on the brink of near-extermination. It also served as the entryway to the rise of the Galactic Empire.

The Binary Sunset from "Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope"

Served as the first movie to release, we see a young Luke Skywalker as he dreams of his greater purpose. The twin suns in Tattooine symbolize his yearning for adventure, and the "Binary Sunset" soundtrack was known for adding a sense of destiny as the Force calls to Luke.

This scene also serves as the foreshadowing of Luke's journey in the following movies. Here he makes the step to begin his adventure as he trains to become a Jedi.

I am Your Father from "Star Wars: Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back"

Even if you are not a "Star Wars" fan, you have probably heard this line countless of times. Darth Vader's "I am your father" is considered the most iconic and historical line in the whole franchise.

During a lightsaber fight between Luke and Darth Vader on Cloud City, the antagonist reveals the truth as he tries to disarm Luke. This is the most defining moment for Luke as he reflects on his own identity and everything that he thought he knew about his father.

Han Solo's Death from "Star Wars: Episode VII: The Force Awakens"

As Han Solo confronts his son, Kylo Ren, on the Starkiller Base, he pleads to his son to abandon the dark side. Kylo Ren was struggling with his internal conflict as his father reached out to him.

However, he decided to embrace the dark side by killing his father. Han Solo's death is one of the pivotal moments for Leia, Chewbacca, and Rey. It also defines Kylo Ren's commitment to his dark side journey.