Star Wars is one of the most popular franchises across the globe with many of its cast members becoming pop culture icons. Actor Ewan McGregor is known for his portrayal of Obi-Wan Kenobi in the galaxy far, far away, starting with the prequel trilogy of films directed by George Lucas. The role shot McGregor to superstardom and made him a household name.
During a talk show appearance, McGregor shared his reaction to people recognizing him as the iconic Jedi Master from the franchise while he is out in public. McGregor shared a hilarious anecdote that underlines the popularity of the Obi-Wan character. As a result, Obi-Wan’s popularity sets a precedence for separating real Star Wars fans from fake ones.
Star Wars Actor Ewan McGregor Talks Being Recognized On the Streets as Obi-Wan Kenobi
Actor Ewan McGregor debuted in the role of a young Obi-Wan Kenobi in 1999’s The Phantom Menace. The actor gained immense popularity for the role, which he later reprised in two further Star Wars movies and a streaming mini-series.
During an appearance on The Graham Norton Show, McGregor spoke about the fame he received because of his Star Wars role. The actor was asked whether he preferred not to keep a beard so that people would not identify him as Obi-Wan Kenobi.
On the contrary, McGregor revealed he prefers being recognized by his most famous role while in public. He said:
I have chased after kids who don’t believe that I am Obi-Wan Kenobi.
McGregor further narrated an anecdote where he confronted a teenager driving risky in the streets of Los Angeles. The actor stated that the teenager blew past his car at a stop sign, leading to McGregor raging after him.
I saw in his eyes I saw the that’s f***ing Obi-Wan Kenobi.
McGregor concluded his story by adding how the teenager recognized him as Obi-Wan despite the absurdity of their interaction. Hence, from McGregor’s words, it is evident that the actor cannot escape his association with the iconic character even while in public and has made peace with the fact that he is synonymous with the role.
Not Recognizing Ewan McGregor Should Automatically Disqualify a Person as a Star Wars Fan
Ewan McGregor’s Obi-Wan Kenobi is arguably one of the most popular characters from the Star Wars franchise. His pivotal role in the movies, a constant presence in fan discussions, and being an internet sensation because of his memes lent the character an iconic status.
All things said Obi-Wan Kenobi is easily one of the most recognizable characters from the franchise in mainstream media. Given the popularity of his character in the mainstream, it is hard to imagine any Star Wars fan not recognizing Ewan McGregor as the iconic Jedi master.
Furthermore, by McGregor’s own admission, he cannot escape being recognized as the character while in public, which stands to show how much fans love and appreciate Obi-Wan. Ultimately, as a Star Wars fan, not recognizing McGregor as Obi-Wan Kenobi seems like a cardinal sin and should be enough to disqualify anyone as a true fan of the space opera franchise.
The Star Wars movies and spin-off television shows are streaming on Disney+.
