The Ahsoka panel at Star Wars Celebration 2025 was packed with exciting updates and teases for Season 2, including a first look at Rory McCann as Baylan Skoll, insights into the making of the series, and much more. Here's a comprehensive breakdown to ensure you're up to date with all the latest developments.
Although we haven't seen any footage of Season 2 of Ahsoka or received a release date, the panel provided a glimpse into what fans can anticipate in the upcoming episodes. Let's dive in and explore the highlights.
First Look at Rory McCann as Baylan Skoll in Ahsoka Revealed at Star Wars Celebration
The Ahsoka panel at Star Wars Celebration unveiled our first glimpse of Rory McCann stepping into the role of Baylan Skoll in Season 2. Following the untimely passing of Ray Stevenson, who originally portrayed Baylan, McCann has been cast to continue the character's journey. Stevenson's performance was a highlight of the series, and his passing just three months before the premiere left a significant impact on the team and fans alike.
Ahsoka series creator Dave Filoni discussed the challenge of moving forward without Stevenson, emphasizing that Stevenson was "the most beautiful person on screen and off." Despite the difficulty, Filoni expressed confidence that Stevenson would approve of the direction they've chosen for Baylan. Filoni views Baylan as Ahsoka's parallel in every way and is grateful for the iconic portrayal by Stevenson, which provided a blueprint for the character. He also highlighted his gratitude for finding McCann, whose focus was on honoring Stevenson's legacy.
Hayden Christensen Is Officially Returning as Anakin Skywalker in Ahsoka Season 2
Following his pivotal role in Season 1, it was confirmed at Star Wars Celebration that Hayden Christensen will reprise his role as Anakin Skywalker in Season 2. While details about Anakin's involvement in the new episodes remain scarce, Christensen shared his excitement about returning to the character during the panel.
"It was a dream to get to do," Christensen remarked, praising the creative approach to exploring the World Between Worlds. Dave Filoni humorously noted his determination to work with Christensen again, even joking about inventing entire dimensions to make it happen. For Christensen, returning as Anakin allowed him to portray a version of the character from the Clone Wars, which he hadn't previously explored in live-action. He expressed enthusiasm for the new look Anakin would sport, different from the traditional Jedi robes of the prequels.
Ahsoka Will See the Return of Many More Familiar Faces
While the Ahsoka panel didn't feature a traditional trailer, it did offer a glimpse into Season 2, confirming the return of beloved characters such as Sabine, Ezra, Zeb, and Chopper through a series of still images. Additionally, it was revealed that Admiral Ackbar will play a significant role, facing off against Grand Admiral Thrawn. The panel also teased the inclusion of adorable Loth-Kittens and various starfighters, including X-Wings, A-Wings, and others yet to be disclosed.
Although the exact return date for Ahsoka on Disney+ remains unknown, it was shared that the team is currently in the process of re-writing episodes, with production set to begin the following week.
Behind-the-Scenes Stories Reveal More About Ahsoka
In addition to the exciting updates for Season 2, the panel delved into the inspirations and creation process behind Ahsoka. Dave Filoni shared his admiration for Studio Ghibli's Hayao Miyazaki, citing Princess Mononoke as a significant influence, which inspired Ahsoka's distinctive wolf fangs.
Joined by Jon Favreau and Rosario Dawson on stage, the trio discussed the journey of bringing Ahsoka to life. The idea originated after Season 1 of The Mandalorian, with Filoni and Favreau considering what to explore next. Filoni's deep connection to Ahsoka Tano, a character he co-created with George Lucas, led them to introduce her in live-action during Season 2 of The Mandalorian.
Rosario Dawson was chosen to portray Ahsoka after Ashley Eckstein's beloved animated performance. Dawson recounted the excitement of being selected for the role, mentioning the overwhelming moment when she saw the art and drawings of her as Ahsoka during a video call. Initially, the team approached Ahsoka's appearance as a one-off, uncertain about its long-term viability.
"Even if this never happens again, I’m so grateful," Dawson said, reflecting on the fan reaction that propelled Ahsoka's story forward. As the series progressed, incorporating revisited characters like Bo-Katan, it became clear that Ahsoka's journey would extend beyond a single episode, culminating in storylines established in animation.
Jon Favreau likened watching Ahsoka to experiencing A New Hope, noting that it starts in the middle of Ahsoka's journey, with much history preceding and following. Rosario Dawson expressed her excitement about exploring and expanding Ahsoka's story in live-action, understanding the character's complexities and growth.
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As Ahsoka's narrative continues to unfold, fans can look forward to more thrilling adventures and the return of familiar faces in the Star Wars universe.
