Liam Neeson criticizes Star Wars death scene and says his character's ending was disappointing

Actor Liam Neeson surprised fans by revealing that he was never satisfied with the way his character died in Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace. Decades after the film's release, the star stated that the death scene of Jedi master Qui-Gon Jinn was too weak for someone with the level of skill presented throughout the story. Neeson commented that he always considered the sequence anticlimactic. During the duel against the villain Darth Maul, Qui-Gon ends up defeated by a relatively simple move, something that the actor believes does not match the reputation of an experienced Jedi master. According to him, the situation seemed too simplistic. The actor even joked that his character fell for a basic combat trick, something that shouldn't happen to someone so trained. The criticism was made in a relaxed manner, but made it clear that he considers the scene a wasted opportunity within the franchise. Despite his dissatisfaction with the fate of Qui-Gon Jinn, Neeson stated that he has great memories of the production. The actor recalled fun moments alongside Ewan McGregor during recording and revealed that they both spontaneously imitated the sounds of lightsabers during filming, until they were reminded by George Lucas that the effects would be added later. The character played a fundamental role in the introduction of Anakin Skywalker and the formation of Obi-Wan Kenobi, becoming a beloved figure among fans of the saga. Therefore, his death continues to be debated to this day within the Star Wars community. Years later, Neeson briefly returned to the role in the Obi-Wan Kenobi series. The actor stated that he enjoyed the experience and especially the opportunity to meet McGregor again after almost two decades. Even with the criticism of the famous scene, Neeson recognizes that participating in Star Wars remains one of the most memorable moments of his career, although he still considers that Qui-Gon deserved a much more epic farewell.