Darth Vader is the FATHER of Luke Skywalker, a major character in the Star Wars franchise. Vader is a Sith Lord and a powerful villain who was originally a Jedi Knight named Anakin Skywalker. He was seduced by the dark side of the Force and became a servant of the Galactic Empire. Vader's relationship with his son is complex, as he initially attempts to turn him to the dark side, but ultimately redeems himself by sacrificing himself to save Luke.