The rumor that Darth Vader would be appearing in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story seemed to have gone under the radar with the reports of 40% of the film being reshot circling it. At the time it was a rumor that made plenty of sense considering how the standalone film centers on a group of rebels who go on a dangerous mission to steal the plans to the Death Star. So far we’ve only seen one teaser trailer that just set the tone, but no Darth Vader in sight. While we can expect to see more footage during Star Wars Celebration, it’s not clear if the Sith Lord will appear in it. But for those who are just anxiously waiting for an answer, you can take a huge sigh of relief.

It’s been confirmed that Darth Vader will be in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, and there may be more to his character than what has been rumored. Hit the jump for the full story.

EW broke the news on their cover page for their upcoming issue. While Felicity Jones, Diego Luna, and Alan Tudyk (he’s the droid in the back on the cover seen below) are front and center of the magazine, there is a portion of text that confirms Darth Vader will be in the film.

From what was reported nearly a year ago, reported, Darth Vader would have appeared in a hologram or viewscreen. However, his role will have a large impact on the “larger Star Wars storytelling universe.” Could this mean that he will appear in other spinoff films?

There has also been word that Darth Vader would have a pretty cool action sequence – something we probably should have seen coming since they brought in stunt coordinator Simon Crane. But Ben Mendelsohn‘s white cloaked character will still be the main antagonist of the film. He is described as an “ambitious officer, who’s eager to earn the favor of the Emperor – and avoid the wrath of his black-masked enforcer.” From what we do know, Darth Vader will not be the only character to appear in this standalone film. We saw Mon Mothma in the teaser, and there have been additional rumors that new Han Solo Alden Ehrenreich could have a cameo appearance.

But wait, Darth Vader’s confirmation isn’t the only good news. There’s more.

EW says Jyn Erso is quite a rebellious character who has had a history of run ins with both the Rebellion and the Empire. However, when she is in the custody of the Rebellion, she is offered a chance to clear her name by going on the mission to steal the plans to the Death Star. But she isn’t the only character to have ties to both factions. Mads Mikkelsen is a scientist whose knowledge is sought by both sides, and just happens to be Jyn’s father. Something that he managed to let slip just a few months back.

Obviously this is just the beginning, and we will be on top of all of this as more news starts to roll out this week.

Rogue One: A Star Wars Story opens in theaters on December 16, 2016.

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[Source: EW]