Ewan McGregor, the popular actor known for his role as Obi-Wan Kenobi in Star Wars, shared his inspiring journey at the Newport Beach Film Festival. Celebrated roles in movies like Trainspotting and Fargo just add brilliance to his already shining career. But according to McGregor, the seed of this success was planted long before.
Growing up as a Star Wars Fan
McGregor’s love for Star Wars blossomed much before he became part of its cinematic universe. Hailing from the tiny town of Crieff, Scotland, he was intrigued by his uncle, Denis Lawson’s non-conformist nature. Lawson was part of the original Star Wars in 1977, playing the fearless pilot Wedge Antilles.
The experience of watching his uncle in Star Wars deeply affected young McGregor. He remembers being taken out of school to watch the movie, the spectacle of which blew his mind. That encounter sparked a fascination in him which led him, years later, to follow his uncle into the Star Wars galaxy as Obi-Wan Kenobi.
Despite his uncle’s initial advice against accepting the role, Kenobi turned out to be a defining character in McGregor’s career. In fact, it’s now common to see both Lawson and McGregor at Star Wars conventions signing autographs for ardent fans.
An Unforeseeable Setback and Reconciliation
Looking back on his journey, McGregor fondly recalls his working relationship with famous director Danny Boyle. They created successful films like Shallow Grave and Trainspotting together, setting solid milestones in their respective careers.
Things did not remain rosy, though. McGregor was deeply hurt when he was replaced by Leonardo DiCaprio by Boyle in a movie called The Beach. That disappointment dimmed his confidence for a while. However, time healed the rift between him and Boyle. In a touching award ceremony moment, McGregor expressed his love and respect for Boyle, acknowledging the pivotal role Boyle played in shaping his career.
Rediscovering Love on a Set
While his film career continued to thrive, McGregor also moved into television. His journey there began with FX’s Fargo, where he played the dual roles of two brothers. This also was the platform where he met his wife, Mary Elizabeth Winstead. Since then, McGregor’s TV roles have kept expanding, including projects like FX’s Halston, Disney+’s Obi-Wan Kenobi, and most recently, Paramount+’s A Gentleman in Moscow.
A Gentleman in Moscow is a series based on a novel where McGregor plays Count Alexander Ilyich Rostov. The actor gushed about his profound experience of working in this series alongside his wife Winstead. He expressed delight in acting out beautiful love scenes with her, and the overall pleasant ambiance of the project.
In conclusion, Ewan McGregor’s acting journey, starting as a wide-eyed boy in a cinema to becoming a renowned actor, is inspiring. His career, strewn with moments of joy, heartbreak, and reconciliation, serves as a testament to his enduring talent, passion, and commitment to his craft. In portraying characters as diverse as an anguished addict, a galaxy-saving Jedi, and a confined gentleman, McGregor has always embraced his roles with his heart, illuminating the screen with his distinct charisma and engaging acting prowess.
