Disney+ Announces ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’ Cast, Featuring Kumail Nanjiani and Beloved ‘Star Wars’ Prequel Characters
Introduction
Disney+ is set to bring back some familiar faces in the highly anticipated “Obi-Wan Kenobi” series. This new “Star Wars” installment, featuring Ewan McGregor reprising his role as the young Obi-Wan Kenobi from the prequel films, recently announced its star-studded cast, including the return of beloved prequel characters. Production for the series is scheduled to begin in April, and fans are eagerly awaiting its release on Disney+.
The Return of Familiar Faces
Lucasfilm had previously announced the return of Hayden Christensen, who portrayed Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader in “Attack of the Clones” and “Revenge of the Sith.” Joining him are Joel Edgerton and Bonnie Piesse, who played Owen and Beru, respectively. They were Anakin’s step-brother and his wife, who went on to raise Luke Skywalker. Notably, Bonnie Piesse gained attention last year for her role in HBO’s docuseries “The Vow,” where she worked with the documentarians to expose alleged cult NXIVM as a whistleblower.
An Impressive Ensemble Cast
Alongside the returning characters, the “Obi-Wan Kenobi” series boasts an impressive ensemble cast. Joining the production are Kumail Nanjiani, Indira Varma (known for her role in “Game of Thrones”), Rupert Friend, O’Shea Jackson Jr. (famous for “Straight Outta Compton”), Sung Kang (Han from the “Fast and Furious” films), Moses Ingram (from “The Queen’s Gambit”), Simone Kessell, and Benny Safdie (co-director of “Uncut Gems”).
Exploring the Post-“Revenge of the Sith” Era
Set a decade after the events of “Revenge of the Sith,” the series will delve into Obi-Wan Kenobi’s journey after his most significant defeat—the fall and corruption of his former Jedi apprentice and best friend, Anakin Skywalker, who transforms into the menacing Sith Lord Darth Vader. Fans are excited to witness the untold story of Obi-Wan’s struggles during this period.
The Expanding ‘Star Wars’ Universe on Disney+
“Obi-Wan Kenobi” is just one of many exciting “Star Wars” series coming to Disney+ in the near future. Fans can also look forward to “Rangers of the New Republic” and “Ahsoka,” two spin-offs from the massively popular series “The Mandalorian,” arriving on Christmas 2021. Additionally, “The Book of Boba Fett,” teased in the finale of “Mandalorian” Season 2, will debut on the streaming platform in December 2021.
Disney+ has even more “Star Wars” content in the pipeline, including “Andor,” featuring Diego Luna reprising his role from “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story,” “Lando” with the charismatic Lando Calrissian character, helmed by Justin Simien (“Dear White People”), and “The Acolyte” from Leslye Headland (“Russian Doll”). Fans can also anticipate new animated series like “The Bad Batch,” “A Droid Story,” and “Star Wars: Visions,” a collection of short films.
Embracing the Future of ‘Star Wars’
With an ever-expanding universe, Disney+ continues to deliver exciting new stories set in the “Star Wars” galaxy. From familiar characters to fresh narratives, the streaming platform promises an immersive and thrilling experience for fans of the beloved franchise.
