Ewan McGregor on Obi-Wan: Studying Sir Alec For Star Wars
One of the stories which recently slipped below the twin-sunned horizon is the upcoming, and untitled, Obi-Wan Kenobi series. That is fine with this padawan, who would prefer to let The Mandalorian work out the kinks of serialized Star Wars before Ewan McGregor shows up on set.
However, that doesn’t mean that McGregor isn’t in preparation for re-donning the robe and beard.
In fact, from the sound of it, he never stopped preparing to play Obi-Wan.
Obi-Wan on Conan
Check out this spot from Conan:
McGregor said:
The most satisfying thing about those films, other than some of the fight sequences, which were amazing to do, was the study of Alec Guinness and trying to be believably him as a younger man. As an acting challenge that was the most satisfying thing about those movies.
Hello There
Earlier in his career, McGregor (and others) spoke about his playing Obi-Wan, and how Ewan paid particular attention to how Alec Guinness approached the role.
My favorite moment in the above — and in fact pretty much any behind the scenes footage from The Prequels — is McGregor saying, “What hairpiece… Alec Guinness didn’t wear a hairpiece!”
Practice Obi-Wan Beard
I also enjoyed this interview between Ewan and Jimmy Kimmel, where they begin the piece with the pair talking about McGregor’s beard:
It’s been a long time coming, but I can wait as long as they need; whatever it takes for them to pay proper homage to the wonderful character.
But, judging by another recent appearance by McGregor, his skills are still complete.