Ahsoka Panel at Star Wars Celebration: Key Announcements

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, confirmation of Hayden Christensen's return as Anakin Skywalker, and much more. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown to ensure you stay up-to-date with all the latest news on the series.

While we eagerly await footage and a release date for Season 2, the panel offered insights into what fans can expect from the upcoming episodes. Let's dive in and explore the key highlights.

First Look at Rory McCann as Baylan Skoll in Ahsoka Revealed at Star Wars Celebration

The Ahsoka panel gave fans their first glimpse of Rory McCann stepping into the role of Baylan Skoll for Season 2. Following the tragic passing of Ray Stevenson, who originally portrayed the character, McCann takes on the mantle. Stevenson's performance was widely celebrated, and his untimely death just three months before Ahsoka's premiere left a significant impact.

Series creator Dave Filoni spoke candidly about the challenge of continuing without Stevenson, emphasizing his remarkable presence both on and off the screen. Filoni expressed confidence that Stevenson would approve of the direction they've chosen for the character. Baylan, designed as a counterpart to Ahsoka, benefits from Stevenson's iconic portrayal, which serves as a blueprint for McCann. Filoni also shared his gratitude for meeting and casting McCann, whose primary focus is to honor Stevenson's legacy.

Hayden Christensen Is Officially Returning as Anakin Skywalker in Ahsoka Season 2

Hayden Christensen, who played a crucial role in the first season, will return as Anakin Skywalker for Season 2, as confirmed during the Star Wars Celebration. Although details about Anakin's role remain under wraps, Christensen shared his enthusiasm for reprising the character.

"It was a dream to get to do," Christensen remarked, praising the creative approach to exploring the World Between Worlds. His return is a significant milestone for Filoni, who humorously noted he had to "invent entire dimensions" to bring Christensen back. Christensen also expressed joy in portraying a version of Anakin from the Clone Wars era, a character aspect he hadn't explored in live-action before. "As much as I love the traditional Jedi robes I wore during the prequels, it was exciting to get to see Anakin with a new look," he added.

Ahsoka Will See the Return of Many More Familiar Faces

The panel didn't feature a traditional trailer but showcased a series of images confirming the return of beloved characters like Sabine, Ezra, Zeb, and Chopper. Additional revelations included Admiral Ackbar's significant role, a confrontation with Grand Admiral Thrawn, and the delightful presence of Loth-Kittens. Filoni teased more about the upcoming action, mentioning "X-Wings, A-Wings, and Wings I can't tell you about."

While an exact release date for Ahsoka's return to Disney+ remains undisclosed, the team is actively re-writing episodes as production gears up to start next week.

In addition to the Season 2 announcements, the panel delved into the inspirations and behind-the-scenes stories of Ahsoka. Dave Filoni shared how Studio Ghibli's Hayao Miyazaki, particularly the film Princess Mononoke, influenced his work, notably seen in Ahsoka's wolf fangs.

Joined by Jon Favreau and Rosario Dawson, Filoni discussed the journey of bringing Ahsoka to life. The idea emerged after the first season of The Mandalorian, sparked by conversations with Favreau about what to explore next. Filoni's deep connection to Ahsoka Tano, a character he co-created with George Lucas, led to her introduction in live-action in The Mandalorian's second season.

Rosario Dawson, who took over the role from Ashley Eckstein's animated portrayal, shared her excitement and the overwhelming fan support that led to her casting. Initially considered a one-off appearance, Ahsoka's story evolved into a full series thanks to the positive fan reaction.

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Dawson expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, regardless of its initial uncertainty. "Even if this never happens again, I’m so grateful," she said, highlighting the joy of seeing the fanbase's enthusiasm fuel the continuation of Ahsoka's story.

Favreau reflected on how the series evolved, integrating revisited characters like Bo-Katan and building on storylines established in animation. For the team, Ahsoka's narrative parallels the experience of watching A New Hope, capturing the essence of her ongoing journey.

Rosario Dawson remains excited about exploring Ahsoka's character further in live-action. "I did not know where this character was going in live action," she said, appreciating the chance to delve into Ahsoka's fears, anxieties, and her reluctance to take on a mentorship role, which added depth to her portrayal.