The Ahsoka panel at Star Wars Celebration 2025 delivered a wealth of exciting updates, exclusive first looks, and behind-the-scenes insights into Season 2. From new cast introductions to character returns and creative revelations, the event offered fans a deep dive into what's next for the series. We’ve compiled all the biggest highlights in one place so you don’t miss a single moment.
Though no official footage or release date for Season 2 was revealed, we did gain valuable insight into what’s coming next. Let’s jump right into the key announcements and teases unveiled during the panel.
First Look at Rory McCann as Baylan Skoll Revealed
One of the most anticipated reveals from the Ahsoka panel was our first look at Rory McCann portraying Baylan Skoll in Season 2. This casting comes after the passing of Ray Stevenson, who originally played the role. Stevenson’s performance was widely praised by fans, making his absence deeply felt.
Ahsoka creator Dave Filoni spoke candidly about the emotional challenge of continuing Baylan’s story without Stevenson. He described Ray as “the most beautiful person on screen and off,” but expressed confidence that the direction chosen honors his legacy. According to Filoni, Baylan serves as a thematic counterpoint to Ahsoka, and thanks to Stevenson’s iconic portrayal, there was a strong blueprint to follow. Filoni also shared his appreciation for McCann, emphasizing his commitment to honoring Ray’s memory through the character’s evolution.
Hayden Christensen Officially Returning as Anakin Skywalker
Confirmed during the panel, Hayden Christensen will reprise his role as Anakin Skywalker in Ahsoka Season 2. His presence was a pivotal element in Season 1, and his return promises even deeper storytelling around Anakin’s connection to Ahsoka and the World Between Worlds.
While specific plot details remain under wraps, Christensen shared his enthusiasm for returning to the role. He described the experience as a dream, especially due to the unique way the story explores the World Between Worlds. He also expressed excitement about bringing to life a version of Anakin rooted in the Clone Wars era—one he never fully portrayed in live-action before.
For Dave Filoni, working with Christensen again was both a creative and personal milestone. He humorously noted that he had to "invent entire dimensions" just to make it happen. The collaboration has clearly been a highlight for the creative team and is expected to be a major draw for fans.
Familiar Faces Set to Return in Season 2
Although the panel didn’t include a traditional trailer with moving footage, it featured a still-image montage confirming the return of several beloved characters. Sabine Wren, Ezra Bridger, Zeb Orrelios, and Chopper are all set to reappear in Season 2, continuing their journey alongside Ahsoka.
Additional details revealed that Admiral Ackbar will play a significant role in the upcoming episodes, engaging in a high-stakes confrontation with Grand Admiral Thrawn. Fans can also look forward to adorable Loth-Kittens making a comeback, while Filoni teased the inclusion of X-Wings, A-Wings, and other ships yet to be named.
Production news indicated that the writing team is still refining scripts ahead of production starting the following week, ensuring the season continues to build on the rich narrative established in Season 1.
Behind-the-Scenes Insights Into Ahsoka’s Creation
Beyond the Season 2 reveals, the panel offered compelling behind-the-scenes stories that shed light on how Ahsoka came to life. Dave Filoni shared his admiration for Studio Ghibli’s Hayao Miyazaki, particularly citing *Princess Mononoke* as an influence. That inspiration is directly reflected in Ahsoka’s design—specifically the two wolf fangs on her cheeks.
Joining Filoni on stage were Jon Favreau and Rosario Dawson, who recounted the origins of the Ahsoka series. The idea took root after Season 1 of *The Mandalorian*, when Filoni and Favreau discussed which animated characters could transition into live-action. Their shared passion for Ahsoka Tano—a character co-created by Filoni and George Lucas—led them to explore bringing her into the live-action universe.
Rosario Dawson was ultimately chosen to portray Ahsoka, succeeding Ashley Eckstein’s acclaimed voice performance in the animated series. Dawson recalled the moment she learned she got the part: overwhelmed with emotion, she had to mute herself during a video call because she was jumping up and down in excitement.
Initially, her appearance in *The Mandalorian* was intended as a one-off, but the overwhelmingly positive fan response paved the way for her own series. As Favreau noted, the introduction of returning characters like Bo-Katan helped shift the narrative toward a continuation of the animated saga while expanding existing storylines.
Dawson expressed gratitude for being able to further develop Ahsoka’s character in live-action. She found depth in exploring Ahsoka’s fears, anxieties, and reluctance to take on a mentor role, calling it a rewarding acting experience. Both creators and actors view Ahsoka’s journey as something timeless—similar in structure to *A New Hope*, where the story begins mid-adventure, leaving room to discover more of her past and future.
As anticipation builds for Season 2, fans continue to eagerly await more updates. With a mix of familiar faces, expanded lore, and heartfelt tributes, Ahsoka remains a vital bridge between the animated and live-action Star Wars universes.
