Rory McCann, the actor from Game of Thrones, has spoken about stepping into the role of Baylan Skoll for Season 2 of Star Wars: Ahsoka.
In a chat with ComicBook during the promotion of his new movie Tornado (coming out in theaters on May 30th), he talked about what it feels like to take over the part from the late Ray Stevenson and to carry on the character’s story in the new season.
He also shared details about his lightsaber training, saying that his time playing the Hound on Game of Thrones helped him get ready for sword fights in the Star Wars universe. McCann said he’s thrilled to be part of the Star Wars world.
I think it’s the right decision to carry on his storyline, not just cut it off. We’ve done it before with other things. I hope the fans embrace it and I’ll do my best. I’m just starting now, so I’m just trying to be in the right zone for doing it. It’s pretty bloody exciting. I mean, I remember being a kid with my dad, going to the first one probably in the late ’70s and ’80s. Now I’m training with a lightsaber at night, so it’s pretty exciting.
he said about playing Baylan Skoll.
McCann then changed the topic to talk about his lightsaber training.
Thrones has really helped with that. Same kind of moves, same blocking. Doesn’t have the same sexy sound though. Oh, my God … Lightsabers are lighter, but having said that, the Thrones swords were stunt swords and you’ve got to pretend that they’re three times heavier than they are. But it’s all pretend, really. It’s all very exciting.
he said
Stevenson played Baylan in Ahsoka Season 1, which came out not long after the actor passed away. Many viewers thought Baylan was one of the most interesting characters in the series. In January, news broke that McCann would be taking over the role, and this was officially confirmed at Star Wars Celebration Japan in April.
Ahsoka Season 2 doesn’t have a release date yet, but it’s currently being filmed. Lead actress Rosario Dawson has been giving fans behind-the-scenes looks, hinting at a physically intense performance. While the story details are still secret, it’s been revealed that Hayden Christensen will return as Anakin Skywalker.
Read More: “You’ve Got To Make It Better”: Dave Filoni Reveals ‘Ahsoka’ Season 2 Begins Filming Next Week
Stevenson’s performance as Baylan was unforgettable, but continuing the character’s story is the right move, as McCann noted. Season 1 ended with Baylan’s journey unfinished. He separated from his student Shin Hati to explore Peridea on his own, finding the Mortis gods’ statues in the final episode. That clearly set up future plots involving Baylan, and dropping that storyline would feel odd. Recasting the role makes sense, and McCann seems like a strong pick. He clearly respects the importance of taking on the role and is committed to doing it justice.
As fans wait to learn more about Season 2, McCann’s comments on lightsaber training suggest Baylan will be part of the action. Characters like Ahsoka, Sabine, and Shin are also on Peridea when Season 1 ends, so there are many possible battles Baylan might have—or he could face another challenge during his new mission. It’ll be interesting to see how Baylan fits into the story and what part the Mortis gods play. With luck, McCann will make the role his own and leave a lasting mark in the Star Wars universe.
Source: ComicBook