The Ahsoka panel at Star Wars Celebration 2025 was brimming 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. To ensure you don't miss any details, we've compiled everything you need to know right here.
While we haven't seen any footage of Season 2 of Ahsoka yet, nor received a release date, the panel provided a glimpse into what fans can expect from the upcoming episodes. Let's dive right into the highlights.
First Look at Rory McCann as Baylan Skoll in Ahsoka Revealed at Star Wars Celebration
The Ahsoka panel at Star Wars Celebration offered the 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 Baylan, McCann's casting marks a new chapter for the character. Stevenson's performance was a highlight for many fans, and his death just three months before Ahsoka's premiere left a significant impact.
Series creator Dave Filoni discussed the emotional challenge of moving forward without Stevenson, emphasizing that Stevenson was "the most beautiful person on screen and off." Filoni expressed confidence that Stevenson would approve of the direction chosen for the character, noting that Baylan is meant to be Ahsoka's parallel. Filoni feels grateful for the iconic portrayal by Stevenson, which serves as a blueprint for the character. He also praised McCann for his dedication to honor Stevenson's legacy.
Hayden Christensen Is Officially Returning as Anakin Skywalker in Ahsoka Season 2
Hayden Christensen, who played a pivotal role in Season 1 of Ahsoka, will be returning as Anakin Skywalker in Season 2, as confirmed at Star Wars Celebration. While details about Anakin's role in the new episodes remain sparse, Christensen shared his excitement about reprising the beloved character at the panel.
"It was a dream to get to do," Christensen said, praising the creative approach to exploring the World Between Worlds. Ahsoka series creator Dave Filoni humorously mentioned the lengths he went to collaborate with Christensen again, even "inventing entire dimensions" to make it happen. Christensen also expressed joy in portraying a version of Anakin from the Clone Wars era, which he hadn't explored in live-action before. He appreciated the opportunity to don a new look beyond the traditional Jedi robes from the prequels.
Ahsoka Will See the Return of Many More Familiar Faces
Although the panel did not feature a traditional trailer, it showcased a series of images confirming the return of beloved characters such as Sabine, Ezra, Zeb, and Chopper in Season 2. 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 hinted at new types of starfighters, with Filoni mentioning "X-Wings, A-Wings, and Wings I can't tell you about."
While the exact return date for Ahsoka on Disney+ remains unknown, it was mentioned that the writing team is currently revising episodes as production is set to begin next week.
Behind-the-Scenes Stories Reveal More About Ahsoka
Alongside the Season 2 announcements, 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 his favorite film and the reason for Ahsoka's distinctive wolf fangs.
Joined by Jon Favreau and Rosario Dawson, Filoni recounted the origins of the Ahsoka series. It all began after Season 1 of The Mandalorian when Filoni and Favreau discussed potential projects. Filoni's deep connection to Ahsoka Tano, a character he co-created with George Lucas, led to the decision to bring her into live-action. Rosario Dawson was cast after a significant online campaign supported her for the role. Dawson shared her excitement upon receiving the part, mentioning how she had to mute herself during the video call because she was so thrilled.
Initially, the Ahsoka appearance in The Mandalorian was intended as a one-off, but the overwhelming fan response paved the way for a full series. Favreau noted that the transition to Ahsoka episodes featuring characters like Bo-Katan marked a shift towards continuing the narrative established in animation while bringing closure to existing storylines.
Dawson expressed her enthusiasm for exploring Ahsoka's journey further, particularly the character's fears, anxieties, and desire to help from afar. She highlighted the joy of filling out Ahsoka's story in live-action, understanding her reluctance to take on a mentorship role and the complexities that come with it.
Every Upcoming Star Wars Movie and TV Show
View 22 Images
"Even if this never happens again, I’m so grateful," Dawson said. "It was just so magnificent on so many levels. To see the fan reaction that allowed this story to continue was a dream come true."
As Ahsoka's journey continues beyond that initial episode, the series promises to be a compelling continuation of her story, seamlessly blending elements from animation into the live-action format while honoring the legacy of the characters and the universe they inhabit.
