21 Times Star Wars Scenes Left Us in Tears

For those of us who’ve grown up with “Star Wars,” the saga is more than just a series of films; it’s a collection of moments that have shaped our understanding of heroism, sacrifice, and the struggle between light and dark.

This article pays homage to 20 such scenes that have etched themselves into our hearts, capturing the essence of why “Star Wars” remains an enduring tale of hope and resilience.

1. Burying the Dead Scene

The ending of the series Star Wars: The Clone Wars, specifically in season 7, episode 12, features a deeply emotional scene titled “Burying the Dead”.

In this scene, Ahsoka Tano, once a student of Anakin Skywalker, is seen standing alone in a field filled with helmets. These helmets belonged to clone soldiers who didn’t survive Order 66.

Each helmet, decorated with different colors and designs, represents the unique personality of each clone. Despite being genetically identical, they each had their own individuality.

Ahsoka, being the only one left standing in this field, embodies her deep sadness over the loss of her friends and the guilt she feels for being the only survivor.

2. Obi-Wan Kenobi Sorry to Anakin After the Fight

In an exciting moment, Obi-Wan Kenobi and Darth Vader fight hard. Obi-Wan wins and during the fight, he takes off Darth Vader’s helmet.

When the helmet is off, we see that Darth Vader is really Anakin. Obi-Wan feels a big shock when he realizes this.

Tears come to Obi-Wan’s eyes as he says, “I’m sorry, Anakin … for everything”. This is the moment Obi-Wan keeps his word to Anakin, the Jedi council, and his teacher Qui-Gon Jin.

3. Ashoka Leaves the Jedi Order

In the emotionally charged scene from “Star Wars: The Clone Wars”, Ahsoka Tano makes the heartrending decision to leave the Jedi Order.

This moment is not just about leaving an institution; it’s about leaving her mentor and friend, Anakin Skywalker.

The pain of betrayal from the Order is amplified by the personal loss of parting from Anakin. 

It’s a farewell steeped in sorrow, marking the end of her journey with Anakin and the beginning of a path walked alone.

4. Ezra’s Sacrifice

Ezra’s Sacrifice” in “Star Wars: Rebels” is touching because it shows what it means to lose something and to be selfless.

Ezra Bridger, a young Jedi, decides to give up his own freedom to keep his home planet, Lothal, safe. This means he has to say goodbye to his friends and his old life.

This scene is even sadder because of how his friends react. They have to face the truth of his sacrifice. Their shock, disbelief, and sadness show how big Ezra’s choice was.

5. Obi-Wan Sees The Hologram of Anakin Killing Younglings

In “Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith”, Obi-Wan Kenobi is devastated as he watches a hologram of his former apprentice, Anakin Skywalker, mercilessly killing younglings.

This heart-wrenching scene signifies Anakin’s complete transformation into Darth Vader.

The profound personal loss for Obi-Wan, coupled with the tragic fall of Anakin, makes this a deeply emotional and unforgettable moment in the Star Wars saga.

6. You Were The Chosen One!

In the big scene from “Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith”, Obi-Wan Kenobi, feeling sad and shocked, cuts off Anakin Skywalker’s limbs in a fight.

As Anakin lies beaten, Obi-Wan cries out, “You were the Chosen One!”

This sad moment is not just about Anakin losing the fight, but also about the breaking of their friendship and the loss of the Anakin that Obi-Wan cared about.

The scene shows the sadness of betrayal, lost friendship, and the sad downfall of the Chosen One.

7. Kanan’s Sacrifice 

The “Kanan’s Sacrifice” scene from “Star Wars: Rebels” is a very touching and emotional part.

In this part, Kanan Jarrus, a Jedi Knight, gives up his life to protect his friends and the woman he loves.

Kanan’s sacrifice is not just about giving up his life, but it’s also a deep emotional journey.

He bravely and selflessly faces his fate, showing the true spirit of a Jedi. The scene is full of emotion as Kanan, even though he can’t see, gets his sight back to see Hera, the woman he loves, one last time before he dies.

8. Luke Skywalker and The Last Binary Sunset

A touching scene where Luke Skywalker watches the double sunset on Ahch-To. This scene is full of old memories and dreams that didn’t come true.

Luke, who used to dream of big adventures while watching the two suns of Tatooine, is now alone.

His dream of bringing back the Jedi Order seems to have failed. The scene is a sad look back at Luke’s journey, from a hopeful young boy on a farm to a tired Jedi Master.

It shows his dreams that didn’t come true and the heavy weight of his failures. It’s a scene that makes you feel a deep sense of sadness and loss.

9. Ahsoka to Anakin “I won’t leave you this time!”

In “Star Wars: Rebels”, during the intense duel between Ahsoka Tano and Darth Vader, Ahsoka recognizes Vader as her former mentor, Anakin Skywalker.

In a moment filled with emotion and surprise, she tells him, “I won’t leave you this time!”

This statement signifies her regret for leaving him in the past and her determination to not abandon him again, despite his transformation into Darth Vader.

10. Destruction of Scarif and death of Jyn Erso & Cassian Andor

In “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story”, there’s a very moving and emotional part where Jyn Erso and Cassian Andor hug each other and watch the end of the planet Scarif.

After successfully sending the Death Star plans to the Rebels, they find themselves on Scarif, a planet that’s about to be destroyed.

As the Death Star’s powerful beam destroys the Imperial facility, Jyn and Cassian share their final moment. They hold each other as the explosion engulfs them.

Their sacrifice is heartbreaking, but it’s not in vain. It’s a significant victory for the Rebellion and sets the stage for the events of the original Star Wars trilogy.

11. Darth Maul’s Death

Maul’s death is more than just the end of his life, it’s also the end of his sad journey. 

His death is a break from his painful and hard life.

The scene is even more emotional because of what Obi-Wan does. Even though they have a history, Obi-Wan holds Maul in his arms in his last moments, showing him kindness. 

Maul’s last words, “He will avenge us,” are about the Chosen One, Luke Skywalker. This shows his hope for the future and his belief in the prophecy.

Star Wars fans connect with this scene because it’s so emotional and it has a big effect on the Star Wars story.

12. The End of Darth Vader

The part in “Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi” where Darth Vader dies is very emotional and touching.

In this part, Darth Vader, who used to be Anakin Skywalker, saves his son, Luke Skywalker, from the Emperor’s deadly Force lightning.

In his last moments, Anakin’s good side comes back, and he fights back against the Emperor, throwing him to his death.

This selfless act marks the end of Darth Vader and the return of Anakin Skywalker.

The part is full of sadness and loss because it shows the end of Darth Vader’s journey, the redemption of Anakin Skywalker, and the personal cost of his change.

13. The Fall of the Republic

The scene where the Republic falls in “Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith” is very sad and important.

It shows the end of the democratic Galactic Republic and the start of the harsh Galactic Empire.

In this part, we see the result of Palpatine’s plans as he changes the political system, makes himself Emperor, and turns the Republic into the Empire.

The Jedi, who used to protect peace and justice in the galaxy, are called traitors and killed off.

14. Paz Vizsla Sacrifice Himself to Save Mandalorians

Paz Vizsla’s sacrifice shows his courage and loyalty to his people. When the Mandalorians are trapped by Moff Gideon’s forces, Paz Vizsla stays back to fight the enemy and let his people escape.

His last words, “This is the way” repeat the Mandalorian belief, showing his strong commitment to his people.

The part is a touching reminder of the price of war and the sacrifices made for freedom.

15. Anakin Skywalker Force Ghost

 

16. The Death of Fives

In “Star Wars: The Clone Wars”, the part where the clone trooper Fives dies is very sad.

Fives finds out about a plot involving control chips in the clones, but he is killed before he can tell anyone the truth.

His death reminds us of the clones’ lack of control and hints at the sad events of Order 66.

Star Wars fans connect with this part because it’s so emotional and it has a big effect on the Star Wars story.

17. Tech’s Death (Plan 99)

Tech’s final moments in “The Bad Batch” are filled with deep emotion. Implementing Plan 99, a strategy that involves a clone’s self-sacrifice for their squad, Tech makes the ultimate sacrifice.

His brave act enables the rest of the Bad Batch to make their escape, underscoring his unwavering loyalty and selflessness.

This poignant scene leaves a lasting impression on Star Wars fans, resonating with its emotional depth and significant impact on the saga.

18. Leia’s Death

An emotional high point in “The Rise of Skywalker” is the passing of Leia Organa.

After making a deep connection with her son, Ben Solo, through the Force, she departs from this world.

This moment is not just about the end of Leia’s journey, but also signifies the end of an era.

The depth of emotion in this scene and its significant impact on the Star Wars saga deeply touch the hearts of its fans.

19. Kylo Ren Kills Han Solo

A heart-wrenching moment unfolds in “The Force Awakens” when Kylo Ren takes the life of his father, Han Solo.

This sorrowful event is a turning point in Kylo Ren’s descent into darkness.

The scene is steeped in a deep sense of loss and betrayal, as Han Solo, a character dear to many, meets his end at the hands of his own son.

This moment, filled with emotional depth, leaves a lasting impact on the Star Wars saga and deeply resonates with its fans.

20. Han Solo Saves Ben From the Dark Side

An unforgettable moment in “The Rise of Skywalker” is when Ben Solo is visited by a memory of his father, Han Solo, after the passing of Leia.

In this encounter, Han offers Ben forgiveness and reassures him that it’s never too late to make a change.

This interaction triggers a transformation in Ben, leading him to renounce the dark side and seek redemption.

This emotionally charged scene underscores the transformative power of love and forgiveness. Its depth of emotion and its significant contribution to the Star Wars saga deeply resonate with fans.

21. Omega’s Farewell to Hunter

The Tantiss facility loomed, its cold walls echoing with the ghosts of countless experiments. Omega stood at the threshold, torn between loyalty and destiny. Hunter, her steadfast father figure, watched her with a mixture of pride and sorrow.

“You don’t have to do this,” he whispered, voice rough but gentle. “We can find another way.”

Omega shook her head. “I have to,” she replied, voice trembling. “The Empire won’t stop. The galaxy needs heroes.”

And with that, she slipped into the shadows, leaving behind the only family she’d ever known. As she boarded the stolen ship hidden in Pabu’s caverns, she glanced back one last time. Hunter stood there, watching her, eyes filled with love and loss.