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, offering fans a first look at Rory McCann stepping into the role of Baylan Skoll, behind-the-scenes stories, and much more. We're here to ensure you catch every detail in one comprehensive rundown.

Although we haven't yet seen footage or received a release date for Ahsoka Season 2, the panel provided intriguing insights into what fans can anticipate in the upcoming episodes. Let's dive 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 unveiled our first glimpse of Rory McCann as Baylan Skoll in Season 2. Following the untimely passing of Ray Stevenson, who originally portrayed Baylan, McCann steps into the role. Stevenson's performance was a highlight for many fans, and his passing occurred just three months before Ahsoka's premiere.

Ahsoka series creator Dave Filoni spoke candidly about the challenge of moving forward after Stevenson's departure, emphasizing that Stevenson was "the most beautiful person on screen and off." Despite the difficulty, Filoni expressed confidence that Stevenson would approve of the new direction. Filoni sees Baylan as Ahsoka's counterpart in every way and is grateful for Stevenson's iconic portrayal, which provides a blueprint for the character. Filoni also praised McCann for his dedication to honoring Stevenson's legacy.

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

Hayden Christensen, who played a pivotal role in the first season of Ahsoka, will officially return as Anakin Skywalker in Season 2, as confirmed at Star Wars Celebration. While details about Anakin's role remain under wraps, Christensen shared his excitement about reprising the beloved character.

"It was a dream to get to do," Christensen remarked, praising the creative approach to exploring the World Between Worlds. For Ahsoka series creator Dave Filoni, working with Christensen again was a must, humorously noting he had to "invent entire dimensions to make it happen." Christensen also enjoyed portraying a version of Anakin from the Clone Wars, which he had not previously explored in live-action, complete with a new look beyond the traditional Jedi robes.

Ahsoka Will See the Return of Many More Familiar Faces

Although the panel did not feature a traditional trailer, it offered a glimpse into Season 2, confirming the return of beloved characters such as Sabine, Ezra, Zeb, and Chopper. The panel also revealed that Admiral Ackbar will play a significant role in the upcoming story, facing off against Grand Admiral Thrawn. Fans can look forward to seeing adorable Loth-Kittens and, according to Filoni, a variety of starfighters including X-Wings, A-Wings, and more.

While the exact return date for Ahsoka on Disney+ remains unknown, the team is currently in the process of re-writing episodes, with production set to begin next week.

Behind-the-Scenes Stories Reveal More About Ahsoka

In addition to the Season 2 teases, the panel shared fascinating insights into the making of Ahsoka, its inspirations, and the creative process. Dave Filoni revealed his admiration for Studio Ghibli's Hayao Miyazaki, citing Princess Mononoke as his favorite film and the inspiration behind Ahsoka's distinctive wolf fangs.

Joined by Jon Favreau and Rosario Dawson on stage, Filoni discussed the origins of the Ahsoka series, which began after Season 1 of The Mandalorian. Filoni and Favreau, both passionate about Ahsoka Tano, decided to bring her to live-action following her introduction in Season 2 of The Mandalorian. Rosario Dawson was chosen to portray Ahsoka after Ashley Eckstein's acclaimed performance in the animated series.

Dawson shared her excitement and gratitude for the role, recalling how she muted herself during the video call when shown artwork of her as Ahsoka, overwhelmed with joy. Initially conceived as a one-off appearance, Ahsoka's journey has since expanded significantly, much to the delight of fans.

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Rosario Dawson expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to play Ahsoka, even if it were to be a singular event, and highlighted the overwhelming fan support that has allowed the story to continue. Jon Favreau emphasized the seamless transition from animation to live-action, aiming to continue storylines established by Filoni and George Lucas.

Ahsoka's narrative is likened to watching A New Hope, as it begins mid-journey with a rich backstory and future ahead. Dawson remains excited about exploring and expanding Ahsoka's story, particularly delving into her character's fears, anxieties, and desire to help from afar, while navigating her role as a mentor.