50 most shocking moments in Star Wars history

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LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 12: Wax figures of Star Wars characters Princess Leia and Jabba The Hut on display at ‘Star Wars At Madame Tussauds’ on May 12, 2015 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart C. Wilson/Getty Images) /

44. Jabba the Hutt being strangled by Princess Leia (Star Wars: Return of the Jedi)

There are a lot of shocking moments on this list, but this one almost feels like it was one of the most unlikely situations, too. Given the size of Jabba the Hutt, one might not have thought that he would go out by being strangled. Let alone being strangled by Princess Leia. You can’t dispute that there’s quite a difference in size between the two. Although, it’s a testament to how strong-willed Leia is as she puts all of her effort into it.

While the original trilogy has a lot going for it, there are some ridiculous scenes in them and this is certainly one of them. Did Jabba the Hutt deserve to live after chaining Leia up in skimpy clothing and having her act as his slave? Not particularly. He was not remotely pleasant to deal with and he’s nothing other than a criminal.

Over the years, Leia has displayed her strength in different ways. Most don’t include her killing someone, but at that moment, she makes the choice to take out the biggest threat to her. Besides, I don’t think too many people really miss Jabba the Hutt, so good for her for protecting herself against him.

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