Darth Vader is set to make a comeback with an appearance in the prequel film, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.

According to Entertainment Weekly, the movie will reveal "never-before-seen characters while also reintroducing a few classic ones".

"We're confirming a big one on our cover: the galactic man in black himself, Darth Vader," it said.

The first standalone Star Wars story, Rogue One, is set just before A New Hope - the original film in the series.

It stars British actress Felicity Jones alongside Hannibal star Mads Mikkelsen and Oscar winner Forest Whitaker.

Rumours about Vader's return began in April with the release of the movie's first trailer.

The teaser clip featured the familiar Star Wars music composed by John Williams, including a bit of the infamous Imperial March, used to signify Darth Vader's approach.

Source: Press Release