10 major questions we have for Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker

4. How does Emperor Palpatine return?

One of the most shocking moments from the teaser trailer was the suggested return of Emperor Palpatine after hearing his iconic laugh. Some things never go away, and Palpatine seemingly did not go away after his assumed death in Return of the Jedi.

Other trailers show Rey and Kylo Ren face off in what looks like the throne room from the second Death Star, and Rey appears to be in a giant throne room, as well. Will Ian McDiarmid only be lending his voice in The Rise of Skywalker, or will we actually see Palpatine? And will he show up in physical form or as a Force ghost?

The idea of Sith turning into Force ghosts has been ambiguous in Star Wars and has been even more confusing with the new canon.

One interesting theory is that Palpatine’s essence is in the Vadar mask, and it has been Palpatine, not Snoke, who has manipulated Kylo Ren. This would bring his return full circle to the beginning of Star Wars with Palpatine corrupting Anakin Skywalker and his attempt to turn Luke Skywalker.

Could Palpatine have found a way to cheat death as he suggested in Revenge of the Sith? It’s always possible, and it’s up to J.J. Abrams to find a way to bring Palpatine back that makes sense.