Multiple sources within the entertainment industry have told The Hollywood Reporter that Disney’s “Star Wars” franchise may soon have a stand-alone movie centered on Obi-Wan Kenobi.
The iconic Jedi master played by actors Ewan McGregor and the late Alec Guinness may return to the big screen after director Ron Howard’s take on “scoundrel” Han Solo in 2018. THR’s sources told the website that talks are underway with “Billy Elliot” director Stephen Daldry.
“Sources say talks are at the earliest of stages and that the project has no script,” THR reported Thursday. “If a deal makes, Daldry would oversee the development and writing with Lucasfilm brass. The Obi-Wan Kenobi stand-alone is one of several projects being developed by Lucasfilm and Disney that fall outside the trilogies telling the saga of the Skywalker family.”
Mr. McGregor appeared on “Jimmy Kimmel Live” in May and said that he would gladly resume the role, although he did not want to appear desperate for the job.
“I’ve been asked this question so many times, and I answer the questions when I’m asked them because I’ve been brought up like that, polite,” he said. “And it’s gotten to the point where it looks like I’m touting for work at Disney’s front door. Like, ’Give me the Obi-Wan spinoff,’ you know? Of course, I’d be happy to do it.”
The actor starred in the role for director George Lucas’ “Star Wars: Episode I — The Phantom Menace” in 1999; “Star Wars: Episode II — Attack of the Clones” in 2002; and “Star Wars: Episode III — Revenge of the Sith” in 2005.
• Douglas Ernst can be reached at dernst@washingtontimes.com.
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