Darth Vader

Darth Vader, also known as Anakin Skywalker, is a central character in the Star Wars saga, appearing as one of the main antagonists in the original trilogy and as the main protagonist in the prequel trilogy.

The character was created by George Lucas and numerous actors have portrayed him. His appearances span all six Star Wars films and he is an important character in the expanded universe of television series, video games, novels, literature and comic books. The films establish that there was originally a Jedi Knight named Anakin who fell to the dark side of the Force; he is also revealed to be the father of both Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia Organa, the two main protagonists of the original trilogy. Vader is ultimately redeemed in Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi, when he sacrifices himself to save his son, Luke.

Vader's name has become used as a synonym for a powerful form of evil, in both televisual pop culture and political discourse.