Why the Obi-Wan Kenobi TV Series is Set After Return of the Sith

The much-anticipated Obi-Wan Kenobi TV series on Disney is set after the pivotal events of Return of the Sith(Revenge of the Sith) for a multitude of compelling reasons. This time period, bridging the gap between Obi-Wan's battle with Anakin Skywalker on Mustafar and his secret journey to Tatooine, is a unique and fascinating era in the Star Wars universe. Let's delve into why this choice is both strategic and enriching for the series.

Connecting the Dots with Interwoven Media

The choice to set the series after Return of the Sith enhances the storytelling by allowing for a seamless connection with other Star Wars content, such as the animated series Star Wars: The Clone Wars. As Obi-Wan isn't dead yet, he can appear in both live-action and animated continuity, enriching the canonical narrative. This decision also gives fans a chance to see Juhani, a character introduced in The Clone Wars, in a live-action setting, further blending the worlds of animation and live-action content.

Making the Most of Existing Content

Had the series been set before Return of the Sith, it would have clashed with the extensive content already available about Obi-Wan's time during the Clone Wars. With seven seasons of the animated series and the movie Revenge of the Republic, this period is abundantly covered, leaving little room for new storytelling. Conversely, focusing on the time after Return of the Sith ensures a fresh perspective on Obi-Wan's journey during a critical moment in Star Wars history.

Filling a Narrative Gap

Furthermore, the series allows for the exploration of a narrative gap in the Star Wars timeline where significant changes have occurred. The fall of the Republic and the rise of the Empire create an intriguing canvas for storytelling. Obi-Wan's efforts to protect the future of the Jedi and the role he plays in the early days of the Skywalker saga provide a rich tapestry of events and interactions. This period showcases the consequences of the conflict and the subsequent actions taken by key characters, including the survival of Luke Skywalker.

Detailing Kenobi's Post-Order 66 Life

A major reason for the setting after Return of the Sith is to delve into the life of Obi-Wan after the chaos of Order 66. This prelude to the Empire and the events leading to the formation of the Rebel Alliance is a pivotal time in galactic history. The series will explore how Obi-Wan, now a solitary Jedi exiled on Tatooine, copes with the fall of the Republic and his mission to protect Luke. His interactions with other characters, such as Jabba the Hutt and the Mos Eisley gang, will offer insight into the socio-political climate of the time.

Why Not Before Attack of the Clones?

Setting the series before Attack of the Clones(AotC) would have led to a repetitive narrative focusing on young Anakin and his training, much like predefined episodes in the animated series. This choice would have lacked the novelty and substance needed to captivate audiences, as the prequel era's conflicts and stakes had yet to be fully realized. The series focusing on events after AotC allows for a refreshingly original take on the character development and the broader political implications of the time.

Conclusion

While a pre-Attack of the Clones time period with Obi-Wan and Anakin could offer a different perspective, it doesn't provide the rich storytelling potential that the post-Return of the Sith era offers. The series after Return of the Sith not only fits seamlessly with the existing canon but also provides a captivating narrative that foreshadows the future of the Star Wars universe. This choice showcases the complexity and depth of Obi-Wan Kenobi's character, making the series a must-watch for any fan of the saga.