Obi-Wan Kenobi: Alternate Origins and the Drafts That Shaped a Legend
During a Star Wars official site interview commemorating the series’ 25th anniversary, storyboard artist Iain McCaig discussed a speculative plot twist for Obi-Wan Kenobi. The reflection reframed his journey and deepened the meaning behind the character’s iconic lines.
In this imaginative take, Obi-Wan would not be the central hero within the prequel arc; instead, the mentor would command the spotlight, and a version of the tale would cast Liam Neeson as the true Kenobi, with Qui-Gon serving as his padawan. As Lucas reportedly envisioned in earlier drafts, after Obi-Wan’s sacrifice, Ewan McGregor’s portrayal would take up the mantle of Jedi in honor of his teacher.
For a time, the older Jedi was called Obi-Wan, and the younger was Qui-Gon. It was moving that at the end, when Obi-Wan dies and Qui-Gon defeats Darth Maul and sees his teacher on his final journey, he not only continues his work but also takes his name. Qui-Gon becomes Obi-Wan.
– Ian McCaig
This is how it was coined during the filming of A New Hope in 1977. Fans will remember that when Luke Skywalker and the ancient Jedi first met, the latter responded to the name Obi-Wan with the phrase: “I Haven’t heard that name in a long time.” However, George Lucas later conflated Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan, and the line’s significance shifted for newer audiences.
As for the franchise itself, the state of development remained unsettled with shifting schedules and project directions across multiple Star Wars titles. Rumors circulated in entertainment press about leadership and creative direction, while new series featuring younger adventurers and familiar faces continued to move through development.
Notes about sensational claims should be treated with caution. Online rumors surrounding individuals connected to the saga frequently surface, but many statements remain unverified and deserve careful scrutiny.