"I was sad to hear that Alec Guinness passed away today. He was one of the most talented and respected actors of his generation and brought an amazing range and versatility to his work. When I was casting the part of Obi-Wan Kenobi for Star Wars, I was looking for an actor who brought a certain authority to the role. Someone who was powerful yet gentle and that came across in Alec as a person and as an actor. The world has lost a great artist."

George Lucas
Sydney, Australia
August 6, 2000