There is little doubt that the Star Wars Universe has been expanding and there have been several new shows in development in the past few years. However, Liam Neeson isn't impressed with the idea. According to the Phantom Menace actor, the spin-off shows are "diluting" the franchise and that's not a good thing.
Liam Neeson is certainly a Star Wars legend despite only appearing in one prequel film. Neeson portrayed Qui-Gon Jinn in Episode I: The Phantom Menace but has reprised his role by providing the character's voice in the limited series Obi-Wan Kenobi. And although he loves being part of the franchise, the Taken actor isn't happy about all the new shows in development.
In a recent appearance on the Conan O'Brien Needs A Friend podcast, Neeson pointed out that he isn't asked for autographs often. He then went on to criticize the spin-offs in the recent years.
"I mean it is a cult. There’s so many movies and spin-offs now I think it's diluting the whole thing, that’s my personal thing," Neeson said. He then admitted that when he does get asked for an autograph, it's a child being asked by an adult to approach him.
"Occasionally there’s kids after a Star Wars autograph and I don’t want to give autographs at the airport." Neeson said with a laugh. "Oh but it’s not the kid, it’s the grandfather, there he is – or the dad."
The interview was certainly eye-opening considering that Neeson is still a major part of the Star Wars franchise. For instance, he made an impressive impression of Watto during the interview.
Although he doesn't agree with Lucasfilm and Disney's plans for the franchise, Neeson previously admitted that he was glad to catch up with Ewan McGregor in Obi-Wan Kenobi. With that in mind, the spin-offs might not be so bad after all. This is especially true if they fill in important details about certain characters' story.
Neeson does have a point but we are also enjoying the new Star Wars shows. Taking Ahsoka for an example, the live-action series serves as a sequel to the animated show Star Wars Rebels and is set to answer a major question about Grand Admiral Thrawn and Ezra Bridger. It's an exciting new series that is set to please the audience and give the Rebels storyline a fitting conclusion (or continuation).
For now, it is unclear if Liam Neeson will return as Qui-Gon Jinn in a future Star Wars project. In the meantime, we're looking forward to Ahsoka Episode 4 this week.
