Our favorite Star Wars characters
Photo Credit: Lucasfilm
Qui-Gon Jinn
Appearances:Â The Phantom Menace, Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Defining moment: His dying wish; for Obi-Wan to train Anakin. “He is the Chosen One.”
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Master Qui-Gon Jinn is perhaps the coolest Jedi in the history of the galaxy. His wisdom, wit, and overall stoic demeanor make him my front runner for favorite character. He expanded my knowledge of the Force, entertained me with his swordsmanship, and further deepened my love for the Star Wars universe as a whole.
Though he was a powerful and respected master, Qui-Gon Jinn was never granted a seat on the Jedi Council. This was likely due to his more rebellious tendencies. Part of what made Qui-Gon so cool was his ability to embody both a loyal mentor and a lone gunslinger.
But even when his actions were defiant against the Council, he always exemplified the characteristics of a “true” Jedi. He looked out for his Padawan, he based his actions on the ways of the Force, and, most importantly, he was selfless.
Though the Council initially forbid it, Qui-Gon insisted that young Anakin Skywalker be trained. Training Anakin was never about a personal power trip for Qui-Gon. It was always about fulfilling the prophecy. Qui-Gon trusted his instinct that Anakin was the Chosen One, and he would let nothing stand in the way of bringing balance to the Force.
And without Qui-Gon’s teachings of the path to immortality, Obi-Wan would not have been able to communicate with Luke in _Episode V_ and _VI_. This would result in Luke never meeting Yoda, never finishing his training, and never confronting the Emperor to save the galaxy. Thank you, Qui-Gon.