Thescreescore – The tumultuous conclusion of the Star Wars sequel trilogy left many fans divided, and years later, the narrative choices continue to spark debate. Among the most discussed character arcs was that of General Armitage Hux, the calculating First Order officer brought to life by actor Domhnall Gleeson. Now, Gleeson has offered a candid glimpse into his personal sentiments regarding Hux’s contentious and ultimately abrupt end in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.
From his prominent debut as the commander of Starkiller Base in The Force Awakens, Hux’s trajectory within the First Order was marked by a tense rivalry with Kylo Ren (Adam Driver). This power struggle intensified through The Last Jedi, culminating in The Rise of Skywalker with Hux’s effective sidelining by the formidable Allegiant General Pryde, portrayed by Richard E. Grant. This demotion, fueled by his profound animosity towards Kylo Ren, propelled Hux to an unexpected act of defiance: covertly supplying intelligence to the Resistance. His motive, however, was not redemption but a burning desire to witness Kylo Ren’s downfall. This clandestine alliance was short-lived, as Pryde swiftly uncovered the treachery and executed Hux with a blaster bolt.
In a recent conversation with SlashFilm, Gleeson reflected on Hux’s definitive exit. The acclaimed actor openly expressed his disappointment that his character’s narrative concluded so permanently, revealing a strong desire to have explored Hux further within the expansive Star Wars universe, particularly through its burgeoning array of spin-off films and television series.
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Despite his yearning for continued involvement, Gleeson found a silver lining in the circumstances of Hux’s demise. He conveyed a particular satisfaction that it was Richard E. Grant, a respected veteran actor, who delivered the fatal blow. While acknowledging his preference for Hux to have survived the entire sequel trilogy, Gleeson admitted an appreciation for the dramatic flair of the scene itself.
Gleeson articulated his feelings with characteristic candor: "Devastating. Absolutely devastating. I wanted to be in that more and they killed me off. But they had to. And actually, if you’re going to die, having Richard E. Grant be the one who blasts you across a black corridor, that’s pretty cool. Yes, I was happy it was Richard who did it, but I was sad to go."
This sentiment from Gleeson resonates, given the abrupt nature of Hux’s narrative resolution. The Rise of Skywalker unveils his clandestine collaboration with the Resistance only moments before his swift execution, allowing minimal opportunity for the film to delve into the broader implications or ramifications of such a significant act of betrayal.
The complexity of Hux’s motivations further distinguishes his final arc. His turn was less a genuine embrace of Resistance ideals or a profound ideological shift, and more a calculated act of vengeance. His deep-seated loathing for Kylo Ren proved so potent that he was prepared to aid his sworn enemies, provided it served his ultimate goal of seeing Kylo’s reign crumble. This nuanced portrayal underscores the character’s consistent self-interest, even in his final moments.
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