Irish actor Ray Stevenson who played Baylan Skoll in The Mandalorian spin-off series Ahsoka, sadly passed away in May 2023. The celebrity who played a former Jedi to perfection, was a pivotal part of season 1 of the show which has now been renewed for another season. But with Stevenson’s absence, the hunt for the next actor will be the priority for creator Dave Filoni.
Fans though, are already having their say about who they would like to see replace the late actor for this role. Many netizens were of the view that Scottish star Gerard Butler will be the best suited to assume this role based on his physical similarity as well as his other performance skills that would work perfectly for the character.
Fans Root For Gerard Butler To Step Into This Late Actor’s Shoes in Ahsoka
The space fantasy series Ahsoka created by Dave Filoni, which is part of George Lucas’ Star Wars franchise and a spin-off series of The Mandalorian, premiered in 2023. The narrative follows former Jedi apprentice Ahsoka Tano played by Rosario Dawson and her allies as they fight the remnants of the Galactic Empire during the New Republic.
The series which was well received by audiences and critics, also saw impressive performances from the cast including Irish actor Ray Stevenson who played former Jedi warrior Baylan Skoll. Unfortunately, ahead of the premiere of the show in August 2023, Stevenson passed away a few months before in May 2023, after completing the filming.
Now, with LucasFilm confirming that season 2 of the series is in development (via Variety), Filoni will have his task cut out to find a replacement for Stevenson, which is a difficult proposition given the actor’s seamless fit into the role. While there is no official confirmation regarding this casting and who the choices will be, fans are already putting out their opinions on who should step in for the late actor.
Scottish star Gerard Butler looks to be the overwhelming favorite based on social media discussions among netizens. Many viewers felt that Butler not only possessed an uncanny resemblance to Stevenson, but has also shown his prowess in sword fighting in films like 300.
Furthermore, with Butler proving that he was a Star Wars geek by iconically recreating a scene with Christian Bale in Reign Of Fire, this is all the proof that fans need to be assured that the celebrity will be the perfect fit for Baylan Skoll.
If they don’t cast Gerard Butler for Baylan Skoll in Ahsoka S2 I’m gonna lose it. The man has said he’d love to be in Star Wars and he’s proven he’s skilled with a sword from previous roles. He also looks very similar to Ray. It would be the perfect recast @starwars 😭 pic.twitter.com/DY8R5mb1De
— 𝓔𝓶 💫 (@emkenobi) June 27, 2024
@GerardButler call your agent now bestie it’s your time to shine
— 𝓔𝓶 💫 (@emkenobi) June 27, 2024
This is the only thing I’ll accept going forward.
He would honor the role as well.
— Travis Curnutte (@TravisCurnutte) June 27, 2024
This would be a beyond perfect casting.
— Blankslate (@Blankslate_GG) June 28, 2024
Shit… that’s a pretty good call.
Well done.
— Mitch Stockton (@MitchStockton) June 27, 2024
Been my no. 1 pick
— MightyB (AJ) (@Josiahhh444) June 27, 2024
With fans backing Butler wholeheartedly to step into Stevenson’s shoes, it now remains to be seen if Filoni will take these opinions seriously, or if he already has some choices in mind for the role.
Ahsoka Stars Paid Fitting Tributes to Ray Stevenson
Losing an actor who was an integral part of a narrative is a big loss, and the cast and crew of the series Ahsoka felt this in abundance when Irish actor Ray Stevenson passed away. The celebrity who played Baylan Skoll, was sadly not alive to see the show premier in August 2023. But everyone involved in the show ensured that his memory was honored during the finale week.
In a touching Instagram post, Ivanna Sakhno, who stars as Baylan’s apprentice Shin Hati, paid tribute to the late star with an image of a painting titled The Wolves Pursuing Sol, and captioned it.
For my friend Ray. Forever your Wolf.
The series’ protagonist Rosario Dawson commented on the post with her own heartfelt words for her deceased co-actor.
Grateful for you always Ray. Thank you for deepening and enriching every moment. You will forever inspire.
As the former Jedi whose past makes up for the show’s most interesting and intriguing moments, Stevenson’s impact was felt right through the series even without his physical presence.
Ahsoka is streaming on Disney+
