The Star Wars universe is vast and populated with millions of beings. We've met a small percentage of them in films, television series, and books, and we only encounter more with each new story. We all latch onto our favorite characters, and Han Solo, Luke Skywalker, Leia Organa, and Boba Fett are often at the top of those lists. But what about everyone else? What about the characters who got lost in the shuffle or who didn't have tons of screen time? These are just a few of the underappreciated characters in Star Wars:

1. Qui-Gon Jinn

The Phantom Menace introduced us to several Jedi, and one in particular was quite different than Yoda and Obi-Wan Kenobi. Qui-Gon Jinn was a little rebellious – we know he defied the Jedi Council – and he introduced new concepts to us. He was the first character who mentioned midi-chlorians, he ensured Anakin Skywalker would be trained, and he was the first Jedi to pass into the Force upon death. Basically, he's kind of a big deal.

2. Mon Mothma

An architect of the Rebellion, Mon Mothma only received seconds of screen time in Return of the Jedi. She revealed information about the second Death Star that led to the Battle of Endor, the death of Emperor Palpatine, and subsequently, the downfall of the Empire. Without her work alongside Bail Organa, the Rebel Alliance might never have taken shape.

3. Savage Opress

The Nightbrother Savage Opress became much more when he was transformed by Mother Talzin in Star Wars: The Clone Wars. After he entered Count Dooku's service, he seemed like nothing more than a manifestation of brute force. He was definitely a formidable physical opponent, but he was also smart – smart enough to track down his brother Darth Maul.

4. Lobot

Lando Calrissian's loyal aide is one example of the everyday man in the galaxy far, far away. He was probably just doing his job and minding his own business when Imperial officers showed up in Cloud City during The Empire Strikes Back. He didn't run away from Darth Vader and the Stormtroopers though, he risked his life and helped Lando and his friends escape.

5. Sabé

All of Queen Amidala's handmaidens deserve recognition for their service, but Sabé stands out. She served as Padmé's decoy and often switched roles with her in order to protect the Queen's life. Because she stepped in for Padmé during The Phantom Menace, Padmé spent time with Anakin Skywalker and we all know how much that affected the galaxy.

6. Jango Fett

Boba Fett gets most of the glory, but Jango Fett shouldn't be forgotten. Besides being responsible for Boba's existence, Jango gave his genetic material to the Kaminoans for the clone army. He had a jetpack, he owned Slave I, and he was a stronger fighter – he basically did everything Boba did and played a huge role in the Clone Wars.

7. Shmi Skywalker Lars

Anakin Skywalker's mother was a font of strength. Shmi rolled with the unusual circumstances of Anakin's birth and raised him as best as she was able to. She loved him, but was able let him go when she saw the opportunity for him to have a better life.

Which characters would you add to this list? Share your choices (and reasons for those choices) in the comments!

Amy Ratcliffe is a writer obsessed with all things Star Wars, Disney, and coffee. Follow her on Twitter at @amy_geek and keep up with all things geeky at her blog.

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7 Underrated Star Wars Characters