Ahsoka Season 2 Recasts Baylan Skoll with Game of Thrones Star
In a heartfelt tribute to Ray Stevenson, the formidable Baylan Skoll from *Ahsoka*, the much-anticipated second season faces a significant shift with Rory McCann stepping into the late actor’s shoes. As acclaimed for his portrayal of The Hound in *Game of Thrones*, McCann’s recent casting announcement at the Star Wars Celebration 2025 stirs excitement and emotions. This comes after creator Dave Filoni’s touching homage, reaffirming the importance of honoring Stevenson’s legacy while advancing Baylan’s story. Admiration overflows as Ivanna Sakhno, who plays Baylan’s apprentice, praises McCann’s dedication and unique interpretation of the character, ensuring fans that Baylan’s narrative will continue to captivate. Filming in London teases an intriguing journey ahead, deepened by the poignant backstory of McCann’s friendship with Stevenson, adding an emotional resonance to this casting choice. As fans anxiously await the upcoming season, there lies an implicit promise of a rich, compelling continuation that loyally pays tribute and evolves the saga. #Ahsoka #StarWars #RoryMcCann #RayStevenson #BaylanSkoll #StarWarsCelebration
- Rory McCann steps in as Baylan Skoll for Ahsoka Season 2
- Recasting follows Ray Stevenson’s passing before the series aired
- McCann and Stevenson shared a personal friendship
- Production for Season 2 is currently underway in London
Rory McCann Replaces Ray Stevenson as Baylan Skoll
Ahsoka Season 2 marks a turning point with the recasting of Baylan Skoll. The character, originally portrayed by the late Ray Stevenson, will now be played by Rory McCann, best known for his role as Sandor “The Hound” Clegane in Game of Thrones. The news was confirmed during Star Wars Celebration 2025.
The change follows Stevenson’s death before the show’s debut. Series creator Dave Filoni paid heartfelt tribute to the actor during the event, calling him “the most beautiful person on screen and off.” Filoni emphasized the significance of continuing Baylan’s story while honoring the impact Stevenson had on the series.
Paying Tribute While Continuing the Story
Filoni acknowledged how important it was to keep Baylan’s arc alive, both narratively and for the fans. McCann’s addition comes with the weight of expectations—not just from the audience, but from the legacy Stevenson leaves behind. Filoni expressed confidence in McCann’s ability to respect that legacy, highlighting his thoughtful approach to joining the cast.
Ivanna Sakhno, who plays Shin Hati, Baylan’s apprentice, shared her thoughts on the change. “He has immense respect for Ray and what the character means to many,” she said, adding that McCann “brings his own into Baylan’s shoes.”
A Personal Connection Adds Meaning to the Role
Adding to the emotional complexity of the decision, McCann and Stevenson had been friends. This personal connection deepens the meaning of the casting choice and gives the production team—and fans—a measure of comfort in knowing the character is in capable, caring hands.
Filming has already begun in London, generating anticipation as Ahsoka Season 2 moves forward. McCann’s performance will be closely watched, not only for how he portrays Baylan but also for how he honors a friend’s memory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Baylan Skoll in Ahsoka?
Baylan Skoll is a former Jedi-turned-mercenary introduced in the Ahsoka series. He plays a mysterious and powerful role in the show’s first season.
Why is Baylan Skoll being recast in Ahsoka season 2?
Baylan Skoll is being recast for Ahsoka season 2 due to the unfortunate passing of actor Ray Stevenson, who originally portrayed the character.
What did Ivanna Sakhno say about Baylan Skoll’s recasting?
Ivanna Sakhno described watching Ray Stevenson as Baylan Skoll as “a gift” and expressed heartfelt respect and admiration for his performance while acknowledging the impact his passing had on the cast and crew.
Will Baylan Skoll still be part of Ahsoka season 2?
Yes, Baylan Skoll is expected to return in Ahsoka season 2, with a new actor taking over the role to continue the character’s storyline.
Who will play Baylan Skoll in Ahsoka season 2?
As of now, the new actor for Baylan Skoll in Ahsoka season 2 has not been officially announced, but fans eagerly await news on who will take on the role.
How did Ray Stevenson impact the Ahsoka series?
Ray Stevenson brought depth and presence to Baylan Skoll, making the character a standout in Ahsoka season 1, and his performance left a lasting impression on fans and cast alike.
Filipino Translation:
So, sa Ahsoka season 2, may malaking pagbabago dahil ni-recast na ang role ni Baylan Skoll after pumanaw si Ray Stevenson bago pa man na-release ‘yung show. Si Rory McCann, na kilala bilang The Hound sa Game of Thrones, ang officially papalit sa kanya—ina-announce ito sa Star Wars Celebration 2025. Nangyari ‘to after ng isang touching tribute mula kay creator Dave Filoni, na sinabi kung gaano kaimportante na ituloy ang story ni Baylan habang nirerespect pa rin nila ang legacy ni Stevenson. Sabi nga ni Filoni, Stevenson was “the most beautiful person on screen and off,” tapos sinabi din niya na si McCann ay sobrang dedicated and ayaw niyang ma-disappoint ‘yung mga fans o si Ray mismo.
Si Ivanna Sakhno, na gumaganap bilang apprentice ni Baylan na si Shin Hati, sinabi niyang admire niya kung paano hawakan ni McCann ‘yung role. Sabi niya, “He has immense respect for Ray and what the character means to many, and also brings his own into Baylan’s shoes.” Ongoing na rin ngayon ‘yung filming ng Ahsoka season 2 sa London, kaya exciting ‘to for fans habang lumalalim pa ‘yung kwento.
Additional feels pa, kasi si McCann at Stevenson, friends talaga sila. So ‘yung choice na siya ang pumalit, mas naging meaningful—mas may bigat ‘yung decision kasi may personal connection sila.
“Watching Him Has Been A Gift”: Ahsoka Season 2’s Baylan Skoll Recast Addressed By Star Ivanna Sakhno was first published here.
