Ahsoka Panel at Star Wars Celebration: Key Announcements

The Ahsoka panel at Star Wars Celebration 2025 was a treasure trove of 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. While we eagerly await footage and a release date for Season 2, here's a comprehensive breakdown of all the thrilling news shared during the event.

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 for Season 2. For those new to the series, McCann takes over the role following the untimely passing of Ray Stevenson, who captivated audiences with his portrayal of Baylan in the first season.

Series creator Dave Filoni shared the emotional journey of recasting after Stevenson's departure, emphasizing that Stevenson was "the most beautiful person on screen and off." Despite the challenge, Filoni expressed confidence that Stevenson would be pleased with the new direction. Filoni sees Baylan as Ahsoka's counterpart in every way and appreciates the strong foundation Stevenson laid for the character. He also expressed gratitude for finding McCann, whose focus was on honoring Stevenson's legacy.

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

Hayden Christensen's return as Anakin Skywalker in Season 2 of Ahsoka was officially confirmed at Star Wars Celebration. Although details about Anakin's role remain under wraps, Christensen shared his enthusiasm for reprising the iconic character.

"It was a dream to get to do," Christensen remarked, praising the creative approach to his character's reintroduction through the World Between Worlds. He also expressed excitement about exploring a version of Anakin from the Clone Wars era in live action, a departure from his traditional Jedi robes seen in the prequels.

Series creator Dave Filoni humorously mentioned "inventing entire dimensions" to bring Christensen back, highlighting the significance of his return to the series.

Ahsoka Will See the Return of Many More Familiar Faces

Although the panel didn't feature a traditional trailer, it provided a sneak peek 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, facing off against Grand Admiral Thrawn. Fans can also look forward to seeing adorable Loth-Kittens and a variety of starfighters, including X-Wings and A-Wings, with some mysterious new additions teased by Filoni.

While the exact return date for Ahsoka on Disney+ remains undisclosed, it was mentioned that the team is currently refining episodes as production is set to begin next week.

Behind-the-Scenes Stories Reveal More About Ahsoka

The panel delved into the inspirations and creative process behind Ahsoka, with series creator Dave Filoni citing Studio Ghibli's Hayao Miyazaki as a major influence. Filoni's favorite Miyazaki film, Princess Mononoke, inspired Ahsoka's distinctive wolf fang markings.

Joined by Jon Favreau and Rosario Dawson, Filoni discussed the origins of the Ahsoka series, which began after Season 1 of The Mandalorian. Filoni and Favreau, both passionate about Ahsoka Tano, whom Filoni co-created with George Lucas, decided to explore her story in live-action. Rosario Dawson was chosen to play Ahsoka following an online campaign, and she shared her overwhelming excitement upon receiving the role.

Initially conceived as a one-off appearance, Ahsoka's journey expanded into a full series. Favreau highlighted how the series continued storylines established in animation, particularly with characters like Bo-Katan. For the team, Ahsoka's narrative mirrors the experience of watching A New Hope, starting in the middle of her journey with much yet to be explored.

Rosario Dawson expressed her excitement about delving deeper into Ahsoka's character, understanding her fears, anxieties, and her role as a mentor from afar.

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Dawson's gratitude for the opportunity to portray Ahsoka was palpable, as she appreciated the fan support that allowed the character's story to continue. "Even if this never happens again, I’m so grateful," she said, reflecting on the dream-like experience of bringing Ahsoka to life and the joy of seeing the series grow beyond its initial episode.