Hayden Christensen’s return as Anakin Skywalker in Obi-Wan Kenobi was a triumphant moment for Star Wars fans, but a recently resurfaced interview via Reddit reveals that he was ready to reprise the role over a decade earlier. In a 2008 red carpet interview, Christensen admitted that he would have loved to voice Anakin in Star Wars: The Clone Wars — but, surprisingly, he was never approached for the role.
Given Anakin Skywalker’s significance in Star Wars lore, it’s fascinating to learn that Christensen was willing to continue playing the character so soon after Revenge of the Sith. Ultimately, Matt Lanter was cast instead, delivering a fantastic performance that added depth to Anakin’s character throughout The Clone Wars. Still, Christensen’s absence raises an interesting question: Why didn’t George Lucas and Dave Filoni bring him back?
Why Didn't Christensen Voice Anakin in The Clone Wars?
Per ScreenRant, one of the most likely reasons is that The Clone Wars was never intended to be an exact continuation of the prequel trilogy. The show made several stylistic and tonal departures, including unique character designs and a different voice cast. It may have been jarring if Christensen returned while other major prequel actors, like Ewan McGregor and Natalie Portman, did not.
Another factor is cost. While Christensen wasn’t a massive Hollywood star before Attack of the Clones, by the time Revenge of the Sith was released in 2005, he had solidified his status as a recognizable name. Bringing him back for a multi-season animated series — especially before The Clone Wars proved its success — might not have been financially feasible.
Additionally, Lucasfilm may have wanted a fresh approach to Anakin. Lanter’s performance gave Anakin a layered and nuanced portrayal, helping bridge the gap between the impulsive Jedi Knight of Attack of the Clones and the conflicted warrior who would eventually fall to the dark side. Lanter brought a unique, different energy to the role, which resonated with fans and ultimately cemented The Clone Wars as a vital part of Star Wars storytelling.
Everything Worked Out in the End for Christensen and Star Wars
Despite missing out on The Clone Wars, Christensen’s eventual return as Anakin Skywalker in Obi-Wan Kenobi made for an even more emotional and impactful comeback. Nearly 15 years after Revenge of the Sith, both he and Ewan McGregor stepped back into their iconic roles, delivering a nostalgic and powerful performance that absolutely thrilled longtime fans, including myself.
Had Christensen returned too soon after the prequel trilogy, his comeback might not have carried the same weight. The long wait, combined with the growing appreciation for the prequels over the years, made his reappearance in Obi-Wan Kenobi all the more special. While it’s fascinating to think about what The Clone Wars could have been like with Christensen in the lead, the Star Wars universe ultimately found the perfect way to bring him back — when the time was right.