50 most shocking moments in Star Wars history

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BERLIN, GERMANY – MAY 08: Wax figures of the Star Wars characters Obi-Wan Kenobi (L) and Darth Maul are displayed on the occasion of Madame Tussauds Berlin Presents New Star Wars Wax Figures at Madame Tussauds on May 8, 2015 in Berlin, Germany. (Photo by Clemens Bilan/Getty Images) /

11. Obi-Wan Kenobi sacrificing himself and disappearing (Star Wars: A New Hope)

The Jedi have always been about doing what’s right for the greater good. Obi-Wan Kenobi is a Jedi who gives up so much of his life just to do what needs to be done. After Padme dies, he does what Yoda asks of him and takes Luke to Owen and Beru.

While Obi-Wan obeys the order, he gives up a lot to keep a close eye on Luke over the years. We learn that he’s been living as a hermit and going by Ben Kenobi. He eventually gives Anakin’s lightsaber to Luke, but out of everything Obi-Wan does, sacrificing himself and disappearing once he dies is still one of the most shocking moments.

Not only does Obi-Wan die, but he does so at the hand of Darth Vader. After doing too much to help Luke and keep an eye on him, it’s Luke’s father who is the end of him. I remember the first time I watched Star Wars and I can confidently say that I wasn’t expecting Obi-Wan to just disappear as soon as he died.

Obi-Wan will always be one of the most memorable Jedi and his sacrifice will always stand out. He’s the reason that Luke, Leia, Han and Chewbacca are able to make their escape from the Death Star. I’m glad they kept him around as a Force ghost from time to time because having him just disappear at that moment and never returning would have been a bit disappointing.

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