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Lucasfilm is gearing up for production on Ahsoka Season 2, and a surprising casting announcement has captured the attention of Star Wars and Game of Thrones fans alike. Scottish actor Rory McCann, best known as Sandor Clegane (The Hound) in Game of Thrones, will take on the role of Baylan Skoll, previously portrayed by the late Ray Stevenson. The Hollywood Reporter confirmed the news, initially reported by Jeff Sneider. According to Sneider, Stevenson’s widow gave her blessing for McCann to honour her late husband’s legacy by stepping into the role.
Baylan Skoll, introduced in Ahsoka Season 1, quickly became a fan favourite. The character, a former Jedi who left the Order after the Republic’s fall, is now a mercenary wielding a red lightsaber. McCann, with his history of portraying layered characters like the Hound, seems perfectly suited for the role. Skoll is accompanied by his apprentice, Shin Hati, played by Ivanna Sakhno, and fans are eager to see how their story unfolds in the upcoming season.
McCann’s acting career spans decades, with notable roles in films like XXX: Return of Xander Cage, Clash of the Titans, Jumanji: The Next Level, and Gladiator II. On television, McCann’s credits include Shameless, The Legend of Vox Machina, and Knuckles, a Sonic the Hedgehog spin-off.
Ray Stevenson tragically passed away in May 2023, just months before Ahsoka premiered on Disney+. His portrayal of Baylan Skoll garnered widespread acclaim, but Stevenson never had the chance to witness the show’s success. Series creator Dave Filoni expressed his sadness over Stevenson’s passing, noting to Vanity Fair, “I think he would’ve been over the moon. The big regret here is that he didn’t get to experience that. I’m glad he was at Star Wars Celebration with us, that he got to see the trailer and get a taste of that from the fans. And they’ve been nothing but wonderful about Ray and the character.”
Filoni hinted last year that Skoll’s story needed further exploration, and a recast was inevitable. McCann’s casting, while not officially announced, seems to confirm that Lucasfilm is moving forward with plans for Season 2. With Ahsoka’s success and the legacy of Stevenson’s performance, the continuation of Skoll’s arc promises to honour the character.
Star Wars: Ahsoka is currently streaming on Disney+.
Natalie is a big fan of anything related to movies, TV shows, and anime — you name it. When she’s not reading or being a dedicated cinephile, she’s probably playing gacha and tabletop games, or daydreaming of Sylus from Love and Deepspace.
