Star Wars: Who is Obi Wan's first assigned rescue? Explained

Obi-Wan Kenobi, a key character in the Star Wars franchise, is portrayed by actor Alec Guinness as a supportive Jedi Master in George Lucas's original Star Wars trilogy. So, for all you budding Star Wars fans or those who've cherished the movie series for a while, you might wonder: Who was the first person Obi-Wan rescued? Well, it was Queen Amidala of Naboo from the clutches of the Trade Federation.

In Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace, Obi-Wan gets his first mission. The agenda is to save Queen Amidala of Naboo from the Trade Federation. Furthermore, this mission marks a key point in Obi-Wan's career. It shows his skill and determination, and he begins his training under Qui-Gon. It also paves the way for him to mentor Anakin Skywalker, who later becomes Darth Vader.

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Star Wars: How did Obi-Wan rescue the Queen Amidala of Naboo?

Queen Amidala giving birth to her twins Luke & Leia (Image via starwars.com)

The Trade Federation blocked Naboo and planned an invasion. Then, Chancellor Valorum sends Jedi Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi to negotiate. On the other hand, Sith Lord Darth Sidious orders their assassination. The Jedi escape to Naboo and meet Jar Jar Binks, a Gungan outcast.

They fail to gain Gungan's support but rescue Queen Padmé Amidala. The group flees to Coruscant but lands on Tatooine for repairs. Qui-Gon meets slave Anakin Skywalker and believes he's the prophesied "Chosen One."

Qui-Gon bets on Anakin in a pod race to win a hyperdrive part and Anakin's freedom. Anakin wins and leaves his mother, Shmi. Darth Maul, Sidious' apprentice, attacks Qui-Gon but fails to capture him.

On Coruscant, the Jedi Council denies Qui-Gon's request to train Anakin. Padmé calls for a vote of no confidence in Valorum. Frustrated with Senate corruption, she returns to Naboo with the Jedi.

On Naboo, Padmé unites with the Gungans to fight the Federation. Anakin destroys the droid control ship. Darth Maul kills Qui-Gon but falls to Obi-Wan. Qui-Gon's last wish is for Obi-Wan to train Anakin. The Federation's Viceroy Gunray is arrested. Furthermore, Palpatine becomes Chancellor. Obi-Wan becomes a Jedi Knight and takes Anakin as an apprentice. In addition to that, Qui-Gon receives a funeral. Naboo and the Gungans celebrate their victory and peace.

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Star Wars reveals Princess Leia's lasting impact on Obi-Wan Kenobi beyond the grave

Princess Leia (Image via starwars.com)

In the Obi-Wan Kenobi series, Leia Organa plays a key role. She breaks Obi-Wan's self-imposed isolation on Tatooine and helps him heal from the trauma of Order 66 and Anakin's fall. They form a close bond, and Obi-Wan starts to reconnect with the world through her.

Alex Jennings' story, "From a Certain Point of View," expands on this bond. It shows Obi-Wan's enduring affection for Leia, even when they're apart. The story emphasizes how both Leia and Luke help Obi-Wan find hope and joy again. Specifically, Leia inspires Obi-Wan to move past his regrets and fears.

Leia's speeches in the Senate particularly impress Obi-Wan. Rather than seeing Leia's mother, Padmé, or her adoptive parents as her inspiration, Obi-Wan sees Anakin's positive traits in her. This marks a change in his perception, as comparisons to Anakin once scared him. Now, they give him hope. Both the series and the story signify a major turning point in Obi-Wan's journey.

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Final thoughts

Obi-Wan Kenobi's journey is more than a series of battles and missions; it's a path of growth and redemption shaped by key relationships. Whether it's his first mission to rescue Queen Amidala or his transformative bond with Leia Organa, these connections serve as catalysts for change. Characters like Leia help Obi-Wan not only survive his past traumas but also rediscover hope and purpose.