Star Wars encompasses a deep roster of actors who played iconic roles throughout its four decades but as life has it, death is inevitable. Just after filming but before the release of Ahsoka, in May 2023, the galaxy far, far away mourned the demise of veteran actor Ray Stevenson who played Baylan Skoll in the series. With him gone, will the franchise recast the role?
Much to the surprise of many Star Wars fans, Ray Stevenson died on May 22, 2023, just four days shy of his supposed 59th birthday. He played Baylan Skoll in Ahsoka and appeared in the series as the show's filming was done before his untimely demise. His scenes in the series were retained and after the show was released, it was a recurring question whether his role would be recast given the circumstances of his character in Ahsoka.
Baylan Skoll is a mercenary for hire who wields a lightsaber and who oversees Shin Hati, his apprentice. While Baylan may not be a Jedi, he knew Anakin Skywalker. Currently allied with Morgan Elsbeth, Baylan is just waiting for another person in power as he believes that there is another inevitable war ahead.
Will Star Wars recast Ray Stevenson's Baylan Skoll after Ahsoka?
There is a high chance that Baylan Skoll will be recast after the untimely passing of actor Ray Stevenson. While there is no candidate yet on who will assume the role in the future, just by looking at the fate of Baylan Skoll in the finale of Ahsoka, it could be inferred that he will be back in future projects of Lucasfilm. Had the studio planned to remove Baylan Skoll in the narrative, his character could have already been killed in the series, but no, in Ahsoka, Baylan Skoll was also stranded somewhere in Peridea with his apprentice Shin Hati, in the same extragalactic place as that where Ahsoka Tano and Sabine Wren were stuck in.
Considering the circumstances of the role, it is highly possible that Star Wars would recast Baylan Skoll in the franchise with another actor that would best fit the role. Should Ahsoka Season 2 would be given a go signal, it is also expected that Baylan Skoll will play a big role in the sequel. However, Lucasfilm remains tight lipped on who will be assuming the character.
See one of the final performances of Ray Stevenson in Ahsoka as Baylan Skoll on Disney Plus. All episodes are now available on the streaming platform.
