Hayden Christensen’s triumphant return as Anakin Skywalker in Ahsoka has delighted fans, especially in episode 5, "Shadow Warrior," where he dons his iconic Clone Wars armor for the first time in live-action. The series delivered what fans had long dreamed of: a powerful connection between Christensen’s Anakin and the era of Star Wars: The Clone Wars, a time defined by Anakin’s evolution and his bond with a young Ahsoka Tano in the epic animated series.
As Screenrant reports, for years, audiences have celebrated Matt Lanter’s voice portrayal of Anakin in The Clone Wars. Still, seeing Christensen embody the role within this era is a unique paradigm shift between animation and live action. Through the World Between Worlds — a mystical Force realm introduced in Star Wars Rebels — Christensen was able to portray a version of Anakin that seamlessly bridged his live-action portrayal with the animated series.
This moment wasn’t just about nostalgia. The episode gave Ahsoka, played by Rosario Dawson and Ariana Greenblatt, a chance to confront her past and reconcile her feelings about Anakin’s fall to the Dark Side. Dressed in the Clone Wars armor, Christensen’s Anakin reminded fans why he was once considered a hero of the Republic and the Jedi Order — a sharp contrast to the suffering and tormented Vader he later became.
The season finale teased even more for Christensen’s future in Star Wars. Anakin’s appearance as a Force ghost, watching over Ahsoka and Sabine Wren, hinted at his potential for expanded involvement in Season 2. With Star Wars continually exploring the capabilities of Force ghosts, Christensen’s Anakin could play a much more significant role moving forward in the franchise.
Now more than ever would be the appropriate time to give Christensen his flowers. As fans continue to appreciate Christensen's portrayal of Anakin for more than two decades onward, many feel it's better late than never. Having watched Ahsoka, the show promises action-packed sequences as much as it provides gritty introspection and plenty of references to the fan favorite Clone Wars series. Christensen's presence in itself adds much-needed expansion to the underlying master-padawan portion of Ahsoka's past.
Beyond Ahsoka, rumors swirl about Christensen reprising his role in other Star Wars projects, including a potential second season of Obi-Wan Kenobi. Though nothing is confirmed yet, Star Wars Celebration 2025 could bring exciting announcements. Until then, Christensen’s unforgettable performance in Ahsoka is proof that Anakin Skywalker’s legacy continues to evolve in meaningful and visually stunning ways.
Ahsoka is currently streaming on Disney+.