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Star Wars Reportedly Recast Ahsoka’s Baylan Following Death of Ray Stevenson

Rory McCann Steps Into the Galaxy: ‘Game of Thrones’ Star to Honor Ray Stevenson as Baylan Skoll in ‘Ahsoka’ Season 2.

Ray Stevenson Recast - Star Wars - Ahsoka
Lucasfilm

In a galaxy not so far away, Lucasfilm is moving forward with a significant recasting for Ahsoka Season 2. According to recent reports, Scottish actor Rory McCann, beloved for his role as The Hound in HBO’s Game of Thrones, will take over the mantle of Baylan Skoll following the untimely passing of Ray Stevenson. This development ensures that the enigmatic character’s journey will continue, much to the relief of Star Wars fans.

Rory McCann has reportedly been cast as Baylan Skoll in ‘AHSOKA’ Season 2

Star Wars
Lucasfilm / HBO

When Lucasfilm confirmed in January 2024 that a second season of Ahsoka was in development, one question loomed large: what would happen to Baylan Skoll, the complex and brooding Force-wielder introduced in Season 1? Played masterfully by Stevenson, Baylan left audiences captivated as he embarked on a mysterious quest on the distant planet Peridia. However, Stevenson’s tragic death in May 2023 left the character’s fate uncertain, and fans speculated whether his story would be concluded or abandoned.

Enter Rory McCann. The seasoned actor, who made a name for himself as the gruff yet deeply layered Sandor Clegane in Game of Thrones, has reportedly been chosen to carry on Baylan Skoll’s narrative. Insider Jeff Sneider revealed that McCann’s casting comes with the blessing of Stevenson’s widow, underscoring the deep respect shared by the Ahsoka team and Stevenson’s family. McCann’s impressive repertoire, which includes roles in Hot Fuzz and Gladiator II, suggests he has the gravitas and intensity to honor the late actor’s legacy while bringing his own touch to the role.

The Late Great Ray Stevenson

Baylan Star Wars Ray Stevenson

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Sneider shared heartfelt insights about the decision, noting…

“This coming May will mark the first anniversary of Ray Stevenson’s death, and I have no doubt that his Ahsoka co-stars will celebrate his life and legacy on the set of Season 2. I’m told they’ll be joined by Stevenson’s friend, Scottish actor Rory McCann, who will inherit the role of Baylan Skoll with the blessing of Stevenson’s widow.”

Fans of the show will undoubtedly be eager to see how Baylan’s enigmatic storyline evolves in the upcoming season. Positioned as a character with one foot in the light and the other in the dark, Baylan was one of Ahsoka Season 1’s standout creations. His cryptic pursuit of the Mortis gods’ statues hinted at a larger cosmic mystery, making his story an essential thread to follow.

Production for Ahsoka Season 2 is expected to kick off in April, though no release date has been announced. While it’s bittersweet to see Baylan Skoll recast, the addition of McCann’s formidable talent ensures that Ray Stevenson’s indelible contribution to Star Wars will not be forgotten. Instead, it will serve as the foundation for what’s sure to be another thrilling chapter in the galaxy far, far away.

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