Obi-Wan Kenobi is easily the most anticipated Star Wars project since The Force Awakens, with hype perhaps even exceeding it. After 17 years, Ewan McGregor returns as the titular Jedi Master for an epic adventure that will lead him on the path to the mentor seen in the original trilogy. Along the way, he'll be pursued by the Inquisitors before coming face to face with Darth Vader, played once again by Hayden Christensen.
The return of the prequel trilogy's stars has naturally ramped up excitement for the project, and another veteran of the franchise is rumored to be attached: John Williams. The Maestro is said to writing the main theme for the series, which will then be interwoven into the rest of the score by the show's composer.
But the identity of that composer has yet to be revealed.
While Williams' involvement hasn't been officially announced either, it seems to be all but a given at this point. Many have speculated that Obi-Wan could see Michael Giacchino or John Powell writing another score for the franchise, and Loki composer Natalie Holt's name has been circulating as a candidate recently, as well. Fans will have an answer soon - Disney has issued a response to the rumors.
Obi-Wan Kenobi Composer Announcement Imminent
Jordan Maison contacted Disney and Lucasfilm for comment on the rumors regarding Natalie Holt serving as Obi-Wan Kenobi's composer. Disney responded with the promise that details are soon to come:
"We will be announcing this soon."
Natalie Holt Composing Kenobi?
Rumors of Holt's involvement seemingly came out of nowhere. By the looks of things, a forum dedicated to John Williams' work posted a poll a few weeks ago inquiring about users' preferred composer for the series, and Holt's name received significant interest. Citing her Loki score and the desire for new talent in the franchise, Star Wars fans spread the word of Holt's candidacy.
Given her pre-existing relationship with Disney through Marvel Studios, it's certainly possible that Holt could be taking Obi-Wan's reigns. Her work on Loki was impressive, and she proved capable of being able to helm an entire series' score. While bringing in someone familiar with the Star Wars musical landscape is enticing, the best way to push the franchise forward is to bring in fresh voices.
In this case, however, John Williams' involvement is critical, regardless of the composer. Obi-Wan Kenobi could make or break much of Star Wars' future, and help from The Maestro is sure to help its impact on audiences. What will likely happen is Holt (or whoever may have been tapped as composer) will interweave the main theme Williams wrote for Obi-Wan in much the same way that John Powell did for Solo.
Of course, the inclusion of some classic themes is also a must for a project of this caliber. The Force theme will undoubtedly be a constant, and the trailer has already made use of both "Duel of the Fates" and "Battle of the Heroes," which could be incorporated into the duel between Kenobi and Vader. Add the return of these iconic tunes to the new pieces entering the glossary of Star Wars themes, and Obi-Wan is in great musical shape.
Obi-Wan Kenobi debuts on May 27 on Disney+.
STAR WARS Writer
