Liam Neeson took on the role of Qui-Gon Jinn in Star Wars: The Phantom Menace, and while he's since lent his voice to animated versions of the character, it wasn't until Obi-Wan Kenobi that we saw him return to the live-action realm. As a Force Ghost, the actor only had a minor role in the series, but it was a memorable one.
While it's been decades since Neeson shot the first of George Lucas' prequels, it's clear the role, and Star Wars in general, still mean a lot to him.
In a new interview with Conan O'Brien (via SFFGazette.com), the actor jokingly described the franchise as a "cult" before sharing his thoughts on its expansion under Disney's watch. "There [are] so many movies and spin-offs," Neeson explained, "and I think, you're diluting the whole thing."
This isn't the first time he's expressed those concerns, but there are a few other fun anecdotes in the video below, including the fact he and Obi-Wan Kenobi actor Ewan McGregor found themselves making lightsaber noises while shooting. "George [Lucas] said, 'Let's cut there; boys, we can add that in later.'"
It's true the franchise has expanded massively in recent years, with a host of animated and live-action TV shows on Disney+ like Ahsoka and The Mandalorian. Throw in movies like Rogue One and Solo alongside the ever-divisive sequel trilogy, and Neeson isn't wrong that there's a lot more Star Wars content available these days beyond the prequel and original trilogies.
That's mostly been welcomed by fans, but Lucasfilm has struggled to remain consistent since being acquired by Disney. After a number of new projects were announced at Star Wars Celebration back in April, the hope is the franchise can bounce back in theaters after 2019's The Rise of Skywalker disappointed.
Neeson appeared to have fun with his Obi-Wan Kenobi cameo, so while a full-blown return is off the table, we're hoping he might show up again somewhere. However, he may not wish to contribute to the franchise's ongoing expansion!
Watch the full interview in the player below.