Ahsoka Panel at Star Wars Celebration: All Announcements

The Ahsoka panel at Star Wars Celebration 2025 was packed with exciting updates and teases for Season 2, including a first look at Rory McCann as Baylan Skoll, stories from the making of the series, and more. We're here to break down everything you need to know, so you don't miss a single detail. While we haven't seen footage of Season 2 or received a release date yet, we've learned some intriguing details about what's in store for the new episodes. Let's dive right in.

First Look at Rory McCann as Baylan Skoll in Ahsoka Revealed at Star Wars Celebration

The Ahsoka panel at Star Wars Celebration gave fans their first glimpse of Rory McCann stepping into the role of Baylan Skoll for Season 2. McCann takes on the character following the untimely passing of Ray Stevenson, who originally portrayed Baylan. Stevenson's death occurred just three months before Ahsoka's premiere, and his performance was widely celebrated by fans.

Ahsoka series creator Dave Filoni spoke about the challenge of continuing without Ray, describing him as "the most beautiful person on screen and off." Filoni expressed confidence that Ray would have been pleased with the direction they've chosen for Baylan. He highlighted Baylan as Ahsoka's parallel in every way, grateful for the iconic blueprint Stevenson left behind. Filoni also praised McCann's dedication, noting that his primary focus was not letting Ray down.

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

Following his significant role in the first season, Hayden Christensen's return as Anakin Skywalker in Season 2 was confirmed at Star Wars Celebration. Although details about Anakin's role in the new episodes remain under wraps, Christensen shared his excitement about reprising the character. "It was a dream to get to do," he said, praising the creative approach to exploring the World Between Worlds.

For Ahsoka series creator Dave Filoni, working with Christensen again was a must, even if it meant "inventing entire dimensions to make it happen." Christensen enjoyed bringing to life a version of Anakin from the Clone Wars era that he hadn't previously portrayed in live action. "As much as I love the traditional Jedi robes I wore during the prequels, it was exciting to get to see Anakin with a new look," he noted.

Ahsoka Will See the Return of Many More Familiar Faces

While the Ahsoka panel didn't feature a traditional trailer, it did offer a glimpse into Season 2 and confirmed 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, as teased by Filoni, "X-Wings, A-Wings, and Wings I can't tell you about."

Although the release date for Ahsoka's return to Disney+ remains unknown, it was mentioned that the team is currently re-writing episodes, with production set to start next week.

Behind-the-Scenes Stories Reveal More About Ahsoka

Alongside the Season 2 announcements, the panel shared insights into Ahsoka's inspirations and behind-the-scenes stories from the cast and crew. Dave Filoni revealed that Studio Ghibli's Hayao Miyazaki, particularly the film Princess Mononoke, has been a significant influence on him. This inspiration is evident in Ahsoka's distinctive wolf fangs on her cheeks.

Filoni, joined by Jon Favreau and Rosario Dawson, discussed the journey of bringing Ahsoka to life. The idea took shape after Season 1 of The Mandalorian when Filoni and Favreau considered what to explore next. Filoni's long-standing love for Ahsoka Tano, a character he co-created with George Lucas, led them to introduce her in live-action during Season 2 of The Mandalorian. Rosario Dawson was chosen to portray Ahsoka after Ashley Eckstein's acclaimed voice work in the animated series.

Dawson shared her excitement upon learning she would play Ahsoka, recalling how she muted herself during a video call because she was "jumping up and down and freaking out." Initially, her appearance was intended as a one-off, but the overwhelming fan reaction paved the way for Ahsoka's continued journey.

Jon Favreau highlighted how the Ahsoka series evolved to continue storylines established in animation, drawing parallels to the experience of watching A New Hope. For Dawson, exploring Ahsoka's fear, anxiety, and desire to help from afar was a rewarding journey, especially as she navigated the character's reluctance to take on a mentor role.

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Rosario Dawson expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, even if it had been a one-time event. "Even if this never happens again, I’m so grateful," she said. "It was just so magnificent on so many levels. To see the fan reaction that allowed this story to continue was a dream come true."

As we look forward to Ahsoka's ongoing saga, it's clear that the series continues to blend the rich history of Star Wars with new, exciting narratives, fulfilling the dreams of fans and creators alike.