Hayden Christensen says 'bold' Order 66 scene doesn't seem to bother young fans

Empire interviewed Hayden Christensen and the entire Star Wars Prequels cast for their Star Wars Prequels 25th Anniversary issue. The actor reflected on his experience in the films, including the pressure that comes with the role and the criticism he endured.

In the interview, Hayden also shared his thoughts on the somewhat controversial and dark Order 66 scene from Episode III: Revenge of the Sith in which Anakin killed all the younglings at the Jedi Temple. The disturbing scene is considered iconic now, but Christensen calls it "bold." However, Hayden thinks the scene didn't make young fans see him differently. While reflecting on the reaction he gets from fans, Hayden describes the excitement kids show whenever they meet him anywhere. He says, “Kids seem to forget about that scene when they meet me! There’s not any fear or intimidation. They’re just excited to meet Anakin.”

Surprisingly, young fans didn't take that scene to heart, and when they saw Hayden, they saw Anakin. It's safe to say that Anakin is still a hero in their eyes. However, that doesn't change the fact that the scene, in Hayden's own words, is "shocking." But the actor explains that he's glad Lucas decided to go for it despite the dark nature of the scene. He says, "There was a lot of talk about us doing that scene, and I love that George did it. It was a bold move."

The bold move paid off because regardless of all the criticism thrown Hayden's way for his performance in the prequels, his acting in this scene has always been appreciated. Not only is the cinematography and mounting tension of the moment cinematic brilliance, but John Williams' soundtrack matches Anakin's heartbreaking descent to the dark side.

With time, this isn't the only scene fans have grown to appreciate Hayden's acting for. His most recent work in Obi-Wan Kenobi and Ahsoka has also been showered with praise, and there may be even more praise to come if Hayden returns as Anakin in Ahsoka Season 2. The actor believes his patience has paid off and says the prequels "have held up well over time" and that "to see the response from the fans now, it’s very cool."

You can read the rest of Hayden's interview, as well as interviews of Ewan McGregor, Liam Neeson, Natalie Portman, Ian McDiarmid, Samuel L. Jackson, and much more when Empire's 25th Anniversary issue drops on February 15th.