Han Solo’s age was never directly stated in the Star Wars movies, but certain details in franchise canon have made it possible to calculate. Harrison Ford became the face of the suave smuggler when the character was introduced in George Lucas’ 1977 movie that launched the epic space opera. Despite not appearing in every installment of the movie franchise, Han has remained a vital character based on his legacy. So how old was he during the various trilogies, including the moment of his tragic death?

Han and his Star Wars co-pilot, the Wookiee Chewbacca, first encountered Luke Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi when he agreed to transport the pair to Alderaan. When Han’s ship, the Millennium Falcon, was trapped within the Death Star, Han assisted Luke on a rescue mission to save Princess Leia Organa. After his initial reluctance to join the Rebel Alliance, Han had a change of heart. He then went on to become one of the greatest heroes during the Rebel’s efforts against the Empire. In just a span of four years, Han went from a selfish smuggler to an admirable leader who put his life on the line to eliminate the galaxy’s most dangerous threats.

SCREENRANT VIDEO OF THE DAY

Based on the chronological timeline presented in Star Wars, Han’s earliest appearance came in Solo: A Star Wars Story, which featured Alden Ehrenreich in the role. While Han’s age in Solo was a bit unclear, the official guide book for the film stated that the character’s birthdate was around 32 BBY (Before the Battle of Yavin). Based on this fact, Han was born on the planet Corellia during the events of Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace, and he was 13-years-old by the end of Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith. Han would have been around the age of 19 during the early events of Solo, seeing as the movie begins in 13 BBY. It was then that he managed to escape from his home planet, but his girlfriend, Qi’ra, was forced to stay behind. Han reunited with her three years later in 10 BBY, indicating that he was 22 when he joined Tobias Beckett before sympathizing with the Rebels.

Han Solo’s Age During The Original & Sequel Trilogy

By the end of Solo, Han and Chewie declined an offer to join the Rebel Alliance, and instead, the pair set their sights on Tatooine. For the next decade, Han became a skilled smuggler, leading to the start of the first Star Wars film, which was set in 0 ABY (After the Battle of Yavin). At this point, Han was 32-years-old, making him the oldest of the trio at the center of the original trilogy. When Han was frozen in carbonite by the demand of Darth Vader in The Empire Strikes Back, three years had passed. Therefore, by the time Han participated in the Battle of Endor in Return of the Jedi, Han was 36 since it was the year 4 ABY.

When Han returned for Star Wars: The Force Awakens, thirty years had passed. In 34 ABY, the figure would have been 66-years-old based on his birthdate. Sadly, Han wouldn’t go on to reach his 70s since his own son, Kylo Ren, killed him during the first installment of the sequel trilogy. While he managed to leave his mark on characters like Rey and Finn, Han was unable to assist in the Resistance’s efforts against the First Order. When the saga came to an end with the events of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker in 35 ABY, all members of Han’s family had perished. While Han never got to fully live out his golden years with his loved ones, Star Wars made sure to give the figure a significant journey.

Jim Carrey’s Comedy Sequel Idea Proves His Best Career Change

About The Author


Kara Hedash
(1744 Articles Published)

See also  Metroid Dread's New Dread & Rookie Modes Explained

Kara Hedash is a features editor and writer for Screen Rant. From time to time, she dives into the world’s most popular franchises but Kara primarily focuses on evergreen topics. The fact that she gets to write about The Office regularly is like a dream come true. Before joining Screen Rant, Kara served as a contributor for Movie Pilot and had work published on The Mary Sue and Reel Honey. After graduating college, writing began as a part-time hobby for Kara but it quickly turned into a career. She loves binging a new series and watching movies ranging from Hollywood blockbusters to hidden indie gems. She also has a soft spot for horror ever since she started watching it at too young of an age. Her favorite Avenger is Thor and her favorite Disney princess is Leia Organa. When Kara’s not busy writing, you can find her doing yoga or hanging out with Gritty.

More From Kara Hedash