The Star Wars universe has the luxury of being naturally divided into sections that include the original trilogy, sequel trilogy and prequel trilogy. Though this is only a small example of the many periods of a galaxy far, far away, they introduced some of the most iconic characters in the galaxy and science fiction. But the ball didn't truly start rolling until Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace.
The Phantom Menace was the start of The Skywalker Saga and introduced audiences to a younger Obi-Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker. It also introduced new characters like the fan-favorite Darth Maul and Obi-Wan's master, Qui-Gon Jinn. Unlike Kenobi, Qui-Gon was a master who played by his own rules, which is why Anakin was allowed into the Jedi Order. But before the movie was released, early drafts revealed Qui-Gon nearly had a significantly smaller role.
Obi-Wan Nearly Led Most of The Phantom Menace
The Phantom Menace was more of a political thriller and adventure story that followed Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan on a journey to warn the Republic of the Trade Federation's plan to invade Naboo. Throughout this race against time, the Jedi pair also encountered a young Anakin Skywalker and Padmé Amidala. As a whole, the story allowed audiences to see the earlier years of these characters, specifically how Obi-Wan grew from a young and brash Padawan to a wise Jedi Master.
Qui-Gon was an integral part of The Phantom Menace's larger plot as he greatly influenced Anakin and Obi-Wan. But the early drafts of the movie had him appear only in the back third of the movie. Because of this, it was meant to be believed that Obi-Wan would be the sole Jedi for most of the early action, like the fair trade negotiations at the start of the movie. Had this remained, it would've altered the role of master and apprentice as the latter conducted missions without their master, which would seem wrong now for Jedi.
Qui-Gon Jinn's Absence Could've Changed Obi-Wan Kenobi's Growth
While the course of events following The Phantom Menace has been thoroughly documented in various forms, there's still a lingering mystery regarding what The Phantom Menace's early draft could've meant. Had the early concept remained, Obi-Wan would've been the most affected by the impact and likely allowed the character to evolve at a much faster rate. For starters, Obi-Wan would've already been mature enough to carry out sensitive missions alone, meaning he'd no longer require guidance. Therefore, by taking in Anakin, he'd have been ready much sooner, rather than just as unprepared as Anakin was to be a Jedi, which formed their brotherly bond.
The introduction of Qui-Gon Jinn much later also might've altered the character heavily as his traits that affected Obi-Wan wouldn't be on display. For starters, his defiance of the council's orders aided in Obi-Wan falling in line because he had more respect for them. Without Qui-Gon, there'd be no dichotomy between the two to inform Obi-Wan's future. In the end, it was a smart move to let Qui-Gon take the reins before his apprentice. Had that not been the case, while he'd have evolved faster, Obi-Wan wouldn't be nearly as personable.