AHSOKA Casts GAME OF THRONES’ Rory McCann to Play Baylan Skoll After Ray Stevenson’s Passing

As a devoted movie enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share some exclusive news that’s been making waves in the Star Wars community. Initially revealed by Jeff Sneider of The Insider (with subsequent corroboration), Lucasfilm has chosen Rory McCann, famed for his role in Game of Thrones, to step into the shoes previously filled by Ray Stevenson as Baylan Skoll in the upcoming series Ahsoka. Get ready, galaxy dwellers, because this Hound is coming our way!

Sadly, the well-respected actor Ray Stevenson tragically passed away in May of 2023 following a sudden and brief illness. This heartbreaking event occurred just three months before the premiere of Ahsoka on Disney+. Known for his extensive work in film and television, Stevenson had already left an indelible impression on audiences before joining the Star Wars universe. Some of his most memorable roles were seen in Rome, The Other Guys, Vikings, Punisher: War Zone, the Thor films, and many others. However, it was as former Jedi Baylan Skoll in Ahsoka that Stevenson truly etched his name among the stars in a galaxy far, far away.

The initial season concluded with Skoll nearing the finish line of a significant personal odyssey. His interstellar voyage held significant repercussions for the Force as a whole. With Stevenson’s passing, it was uncertain how showrunner Dave Filoni would wrap up Skoll’s narrative. Instead of eliminating the character from the storyline, Lucasfilm decided to replace the role. They have successfully found an actor who embodies both the spirit and physical presence that echoes Stevenson’s.

Actor Rory McCann, recognized for his role as Sandor Clegane on the series “Game of Thrones,” is set to assume the character Baylan Skoll when the show resumes for its second season. Previously, McCann has been in films such as “Hot Fuzz,” “Clash of the Titans,” “Jumanji: The Next Level,” and lent his voice to Megatron in “Transformers: EarthSpark.” In 2024, he made appearances in “Gladiator II” and “Knuckles.

In the role of Skoll, McCann is undeniably an excellent pick, but he faces a significant challenge given the impressive portrayal by Ray Stevenson. Stevenson brought to life one of the most intricate Star Wars characters in recent memory with a touching and emotional performance. If McCann can embody even a fraction of what made Baylan Skoll so endearing during Ahsoka’s initial season, he will undoubtedly pay tribute to Ray Stevenson’s memorable role.

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2025-01-10 18:02