In the context of the Star Wars narrative, Rey is a "Skywalker" by choice and adoption, rather than by blood. The 2019 film The Rise of Skywalker reveals that Rey is biologically the granddaughter of Emperor Sheev Palpatine. However, after the deaths of Luke Skywalker and Leia Organa, and her final victory over the Sith, Rey travels to the Lars homestead on Tatooine. When a local asks for her name, she sees the Force spirits of Luke and Leia smiling at her and responds, "Rey Skywalker." This moment symbolizes her rejection of her dark lineage in favor of the heroic legacy of her mentors. In 2026, fans generally view this as a thematic statement on "found family"—the idea that your identity is defined by your actions and values rather than your DNA. While she remains a Palpatine by birth, she is officially recognized within the franchise lore as the successor to the Skywalker name, carrying their lightsabers and teachings into the future of the Jedi Order.