No matter how you feel about the prequel series, there is no denying the impact they have had on the star wars universe in general. The story of Anakin Skywalker and his master Obi-Wan Kenobi, which we only heard briefly in the original trilogy, finally comes to life in the three films written by George Lucas. But it turns out that how this story began in The Phantom Menace It was almost completely different.

almost everything star wars Fans are familiar with how that movie plays out. A young Obi-Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor) and his Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn (Liam Neeson) are tasked with protecting Queen Amidala (Natalie Portman) and in the process uncover a conspiracy to invade her planet Naboo, as well as existence. of a Sith Lord. In the end, Qui-Gon falls to the hands of the Sith, Darth Maul (Ray Park), who is then cut in half and presumed dead by Obi-Wan.

However, according to star wars concept and storyboard artist Iain McCaigGeorge Lucas was originally planning a very different twist for the film’s ending. Before filming began, McGregor and Neeson were originally supposed to play opposite characters. “The older Jedi was named Obi-Wan and the younger Jedi was named Qui-Gon.” McCaig said StarWars.com. “It was very moving that at the end, when Obi-Wan dies and Qui-Gon defeats Darth Maul and stays with his Master as he dies, he not only takes on the search for his Master, but also takes on his name. Qui-Gon becomes Obi-Wan.”

McGregor was always meant to play the younger version of Alec Guinness’ character in A new hopebut this revelation was meant to add layers to his character in the film. When he says that he hasn’t heard the name “Obi-Wan” in a long time, and the surprise he shows, it would have been because his name was actually “Qui-Gon.” At least, according to McCaig.