Ahsoka Season 2: Honoring Ray Stevenson's Legacy

Ahsoka season 2 was almost off the table when Ray Stevenson passed away. The actor, known for his role as Baylan Skoll, was deeply cherished by the show's creator, Dave Filoni. Filoni, who was at Star Wars Celebration Japan, spoke openly about the impact of Stevenson's death on the series. The loss was immense, not just for the character but for the entire production team. Stevenson's portrayal of Baylan Skoll was pivotal, and his absence left a significant void. Filoni admitted that continuing the show was a struggle. The emotional toll was heavy, and the creative process was halted for a while. However, with the support of Jon Favreau and Rosario Dawson, Filoni found the strength to move forward. The conversations he had with Stevenson about Baylan's character helped guide the direction of the series. Filoni is now confident that Stevenson would approve of the choices made for Baylan's future. Baylan Skoll is more than just a villain in the story. He is meant to be a parallel to Ahsoka, representing a different journey of a Jedi who has lost his way. This parallel is crucial to the narrative and will continue to be explored in the upcoming season. The decision to recast the role was not taken lightly. Filoni and Favreau sought someone who could understand the essence of Baylan and honor Stevenson's legacy. The search led them to Rory McCann, known for his roles in Game of Thrones and Hot Fuzz. McCann is committed to upholding the legacy of Stevenson and bringing his own unique touch to the character. Filoni praised McCann's dedication and respect for the role, expressing confidence in his ability to deliver a performance that will satisfy fans. McCann is aware of the responsibility he carries and is determined not to let anyone down. The production of Ahsoka season 2 is set to begin by the end of April. While an exact release date is unknown, fans can expect it sometime in late 2026. The anticipation is high, and the team is working diligently to ensure that the season lives up to the expectations set by the first. The legacy of Ray Stevenson will continue to shine through in the character of Baylan Skoll, thanks to the efforts of the cast and crew.