Acclaimed actor Ewan McGregor has openly declared his enthusiasm for donning the Jedi robes once more as Obi-Wan Kenobi, a role that has etched its mark on the Star Wars legacy. The initial season of the self-titled Disney+ series “Obi-Wan Kenobi,” which showcases the stoic Jedi Master, generated a warm reception, fueling McGregor’s interest in extending his tenure within the epic space opera.
In a conversation with Deadline, the actor spoke candidly about his experiences on set and his hopes for the future of his character, Obi-Wan. His affection for the role and the Star Wars universe was palpable:
“I hope we get a chance to do another one and I’m sure we will. I’ve got a few years yet before I’m the same age as Alec Guinness was in ‘A New Hope.’ So there’s time to tell more stories in there.”
Released in 2022, the “Obi-Wan Kenobi” series comprises six episodes that take viewers on a journey with the titular Jedi Master as he steps out from years of seclusion. The narrative sees him embarking on a daring mission to rescue a young Princess Leia from the clutches of the Galactic Empire’s Inquisitors, leading to a dramatic and emotional confrontation with his former apprentice, now known as Darth Vader.
While no official word from Lucasfilm or Disney has been forthcoming about continuation of the series, McGregor seems hopeful about the possibility of exploring more chapters in Obi-Wan’s life. Fans of the Star Wars franchise and fellow actors alike found McGregor’s performance to be a resonant link to the original character portrayed by Sir Alec Guinness, adding depth to the beloved mentor of Luke Skywalker.
McGregor’s portrayal of Obi-Wan Kenobi first graced the big screen in “Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace” (1999), and he reprised the role in subsequent prequel trilogy films. His performances have been lauded for capturing the essence of the wise and courageous Jedi, making him a fan favorite in the expansive Star Wars saga.
The Obi-Wan Kenobi Disney+ series provided McGregor with an opportunity to explore deeper layers of the character during a turbulent period between the prequel and original Star Wars trilogies. Seeing the character grapple with the aftermath of Order 66 and the rise of the Empire offered a rich context for McGregor to truly shine in the role.
The actor has not been shy about expressing his desire to continue this complex portrayal of Obi-Wan. He’s keen on revealing new aspects of the Jedi’s life, feeling there are still untapped stories within the character’s rich history that can be explored.
Throughout the making of the series, the cast and crew focused on honoring the legacy of the original films while providing a fresh perspective on the character’s journey. The emotional weight carried by McGregor’s performance as he navigated the transition from prequel-era Obi-Wan to a man much closer to the sage-like figure we meet in “A New Hope” spoke volumes of his dedication to the role.
Audiences have been speculating about the direction future stories might take, discussing possible plots that could include exploring Obi-Wan’s past or delving into his extended time on Tatooine as he watches over the young Luke Skywalker, preparing for the role he must ultimately play in overthrowing the Empire.
If McGregor’s aspirations are realized and Disney+ greenlights additional seasons or spin-offs, it would provide an exciting extension to the Star Wars universe, allowing fans to experience more of the rich storytelling that has defined the series for generations. For now, McGregor, along with millions of Star Wars enthusiasts around the world, eagerly awaits the potential continuation of Obi-Wan’s epic narrative.
