Summary
The first twoStar Wars: Ahsokaepisodes finally premiered on Disney Plus. But the occasion has been bittersweet, as Ray Stevenson, one of the spinoff series' stars, had recently passed away before its release. In his honor, the first episode ended with a simple but touching tribute.
Stevenson stars inAhsokaas Baylan Skoll, one of two newvillains wielding striking orange lightsabersand working as mercenaries for Morgan Elsbeth (Diana Lee Inosanto) as she searches for Grand Admiral Thrawn (Lars Mikkelsen). Even in his initial appearances so far, he’s earned some of the most praise of anyone in theStar Warsshow due to the quiet intensity of his performance. While it may not be his true legacy as an actor, it’s been a fitting last showcase of the late actor’s talent on the screen. So, a dedication from the show itself feels especially fitting.
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Just before the credits roll at the end ofAhsoka’s first episode, a short tribute can now be seen dedicating the episode (and likely the show itself) to Stevenson, reading “For our friend, Ray.” Even though he won’t see it, it’s nice to have that little nod to an actor who has made a real mark onStar Wars. Seeing where his character goes as the season progresses will be exciting. But even just for now, he’s already become one of the show’s highlights, and that’s a testament to Stevenson’s incredible abilities as an actor.
Ahsokamay see Stevenson playing a former Jedi-turned-mercenary alongside Ivanna Sakhno as his apprentice, Shin Hati. But many may haveforgotten that he’s been inStar Warsbefore. He previously voiced the treasonous Mandalorian Gar Saxon in bothThe Clone WarsandStar Wars Rebels, the former of which saw the character’s radical ideals inspire him to join a coup against the current leadership of his home planet, Mandalore. During this period, he was led by former Sith Lord Maul. However, he eventually pledged loyalty to the Galactic Empire and became Governor of Mandalore under the direct command of Emperor Palpatine. However, he was killed after losing a duel with the young Mandalorian Sabine Wren.
Aside fromStar Wars, the Northern Irish-born Stevenson enjoyed a successful and varied career that saw him in roles such as Governor Scott in 2022’sRRRand Volstagg in theMarvel Cinematic Universe’sThorfilms. His projects maintained a level of diversity throughout his life, as he bounced from historical dramas like 2004’sKing Arthurand the HBO seriesRometo more fantastical appearances like the mobster Isaak Sirko inDexterseason 7 and even Blackbeard himself in the Starz seriesBlack Sails, intended as a prequel to Robert Louis Stevenson’s literary classicTreasure Island. He also notably played The Punisher inPunisher: War Zonebefore the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s creation.
Stevenson’s acting career was already one to be celebrated beforeAhsoka, and he’ll be remembered for far more than simply an intimidating lightsaber-wielding villain. But even so, it’s nice that he got one last acclaimed appearance as a final dedication to his life and accomplishments. RIP to a legend.
