Hayden Christensen has long been associated with the iconic role of Anakin Skywalker in the Star Wars prequel trilogy, and the actor has shown a consistent willingness to step back into that character whenever the opportunity arises. Speaking at Fan Expo Boston this weekend, Christensen opened up about his future in the franchise, revealing that while no plans beyond the upcoming Ahsoka Season 2 have been confirmed, he remains enthusiastic about continuing to portray the complex Jedi-turned-Sith Lord.
Christensen's recent returns to the Star Wars universe have included cameo appearances in Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker, the limited series Obi-Wan Kenobi, and the first season of Ahsoka. In these projects, he has reprised Anakin in various forms, from voice-over contributions to on-screen roles that leverage Force visions and projections. His involvement in Ahsoka, where he appears as a Force ghost guiding his former apprentice Ahsoka Tano, has been particularly notable, allowing for a post-Darth Vader redemption arc that fits Christensen's portrayal of a younger Anakin.
During his panel at Fan Expo Boston, Christensen was directly asked about the possibility of extending his time as Anakin beyond the confirmed Ahsoka Season 2. He responded affirmatively, emphasizing his passion for the role and deference to the decision-makers at Lucasfilm. “One hundred percent… I would love to, yes. If the powers that be decide that’s something that they want to see, I would be there in a heartbeat,” Christensen stated. This comment underscores his readiness to align with the creative visions of writers, producers, and studio executives who shape the Star Wars narrative.
The flexibility of Star Wars storytelling has enabled Christensen's appearances even in timelines set after Anakin's death as Darth Vader. In Ahsoka, which unfolds in the post-Return of the Jedi era, Anakin manifests as a Force ghost, projecting a version of himself that resonates with his pre-Vader identity. This approach sidesteps chronological constraints, much like his brief vocal role in The Rise of Skywalker or his suited appearances as Vader in Obi-Wan Kenobi. Advances in digital de-aging technology also open doors for potential live-action depictions in eras like the Clone Wars, should future projects explore those periods.
Christensen's enthusiasm aligns with the broader evolution of the Star Wars franchise, which continues to blend legacy characters with new stories across films, series, and other media. While his cameos have varied in length and format—ranging from auditory elements to visually striking sequences—they highlight Anakin's enduring significance as a pivotal figure in the saga's lore.
As for Ahsoka Season 2, production has been underway throughout the summer, though an official release date has yet to be announced. The series' first season is currently available for streaming on Disney+, alongside Christensen's other Star Wars contributions. Among the many anticipated elements of the sequel, Christensen's return as Anakin stands out as one of the most exciting aspects, promising to deepen the emotional and narrative threads established in the inaugural season.
