26 Years Later: Hidden George Lucas Cameo in The Phantom Menace Finally Discovered

It’s been a while since the Star Wars prequels caused a cinema storm, creating villains that fans have detested for years and providing a new beginning for others in their beloved series. For many fans, The Phantom Menace was the more difficult movie to accept. However, with Disney’s recent Star Wars releases in theaters, it seems that time has softened its impact. This could be why one fan decided to revisit the underwater world of Naboo after nearly 30 years, unearthing an Easter egg possibly hidden by George Lucas.

Caroleen “Jett” Green, a former matte painter at ILM, recently shared with Clayton Sandell of SFFGazette that she discreetly included a cameo for George Lucas in his initial film from the prequel series.

Green mentioned in our conversation that they chose to have a photo of George made and displayed on a plaque. They commented, ‘That seemed like a neat idea, but when I consider it’ll be miniaturized, George’s face becomes indistinct.’

She mentioned that Lucas needed to give his approval for the small role, yet appeared satisfied with his reaction.

George is very reserved. Upon seeing something, he murmured, ‘Oh, mischievous, mischievous,'” she added. “I replied, ‘Well, yes, but it’s your expression.’ And once more, there was a pause. I was surrounded by others, and yet–for some inexplicable reason, I sensed that no trouble would come my way. Then George agreed, ‘Alright. Keep it here.’

In a sense, his first on-screen appearance in the Star Wars saga occurred in these films, although George Lucas had a physical appearance in Revenge of the Sith from 2005. He played Baron Notluwiski Papanoida with blue skin, standing with his family outside the opera. It’s interesting to note that Lucas made his cameo just before the true darkness of the galaxy emerged; however, the reason for this timing remains uncertain.

Lucas, too, makes a brief appearance through voiceovers in recent Disney productions such as “Rogue One” and “The Rise of Skywalker.” His scream recorded during the 1973 production of “American Grafitti” was used instead of the well-known Wilhelm scream. Given that he’s unlikely to reappear in future films or cameos, enthusiasts might want to revisit his earlier works for a Lucas fix.

The Easter egg hidden in The Phantom Menace, though challenging to spot even at 4k resolution, can indeed be found. Contrary to belief, it’s not just a casual mistake or Photoshop joke. It’s an authentic photograph of the film’s director that gained significant attention when the movie was initially released, and it was even showcased prominently during a Washington, D.C. museum exhibition celebrating the franchise’s 20th anniversary. Furthermore, it received the Drew Struzan touch for a stunning tribute painting.

Could you find the hidden reference, or Easter egg, on your own? Do you think Star Wars: The Phantom Menace could benefit from a reevaluation? Share your thoughts below!

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2025-03-09 07:10