George Lucas’ Star Wars saga featured Hayden Christensen in the role of Anakin Skywalker, the character who descends into the dark side of the Force to become the iconic antagonist Darth Vader. An integral moment in Anakin’s transformation unfolds during the events of Attack of the Clones. After witnessing his mother’s death, who was abducted by Tusken Raiders, Anakin massacres the men, women, and children of the camp in a rage.
In a recent interview with Empire Magazine, Christensen opened up about filming the emotionally intense scene, reflecting on George Lucas’ supportive presence amid challenges in capturing the pivotal moment on screen.
Hayden Christensen Reflected on George Lucas’ Support During Filming of Tusken Massacre Scene
In a recent interview with Empire Magazine, Hayden Christensen opened up about filming the emotionally charged scenes in George Lucas’ Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones. The actor shared he struggled to find the right emotional depth while filming the scene which depicted that there is “something very unstable about this character.”
He shared that he took a little break and went off for a walk. After which he was greeted by the filmmaker, who sensed that he “was having a tough time with the scene.” Christensen explained that the filmmaker offered him guidance and encouragement with “small adjustments that he was looking for.” Hayden Christensen shared,
“And I just remember how gracious he was with me, talking me through where we were at, small adjustments that he was looking for. We were very close. And he just did it in a very sincere and heartfelt way. It was a moment where we really connected.”
The actor explained that it not only helped him with the scene but also helped them bond on a personal level. “It was a bonding moment for us,” he shared. With Lucas’ support, Christensen felt prepared to return to set and successfully execute the scene, which ultimately became a pivotal moment in the Star Wars saga.
Hayden Christensen on Reprising His Role Ahsoka And Obi-Wan Kenobi
After portraying the character in George Lucas‘ Star Wars prequel trilogy, Hayden Christensen reprised his role as Anakin Skywalker in the Disney+ limited series Obi-Wan Kenobi and Ahsoka. During his conversation with Empire, the actor described it as an “amazing opportunity” as he did not expect to reprise his role after the prequel trilogy.
“When we finished doing the prequels, it felt like that was it,” he said. The 42-year-old actor further shared, “I’m very grateful for the work that I got to do.” He also expressed his gratitude to have the opportunity to play Darth Vader in Obi-Wan Kenobi and bring Anakin back to life in Ahsoka. However, he did not clearly state anything about whether he would reprise his role in the future.
Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones is available on Disney+.
