The role that the late Ray Stevenson played in Ahsoka is set to be taken over by Game of Thrones star Rory McCann, it’s been confirmed.
In May 2023, it was announced that Stevenson, best-known for roles in Thor and Punisher, had died at the age of 58.
It was later reported that the actor had been rushed to hospital from the set of a movie he had been making in Italy, with filming being suspended with immediate effect at the time.
Stevenson’s death occurred three months before the premiere of Ahsoka, a Star Wars TV series on Disney Plus in which he played a former Jedi called Baylan Skoll.
Following the release of the first season, fans speculated whether Baylan would return, and if so, if a new actor would be cast to play the ominous character.
Some viewers suggested possible contenders to succeed Stevenson such as Liev Schreiber, Gerard Butler, Viggo Mortensen and Russell Crowe.
However, it’s now been confirmed by The Hollywood Reporter that McCann, 55, best-known for playing Sandor Clegane, aka The Hound, in Game of Thrones has been cast in the role, with the news having first been revealed by film critic Jeffrey Sneider on The InSneider.
Reacting to the news on Reddit, one fan called Ash_Killem wrote: ‘Whoa. I like it. Stevenson created the character but McCann can do it justice. Just glad we are getting more of Baylan.’
‘Agreed. All respect to Stevenson but writing off one of the most interesting new SW characters of the Disney era would’ve been a huge mistake,’ PurifiedVenom responded.
B_Fee added: ‘I was fully in the Liev Schreiber camp, but Rory McCann is a very good choice. He can look the part and has more range than people think.’
Martel732 also pointed out the versatility that McCann displayed in his role as The Hound on Game of Thrones, as it demonstrated how he could portray a character’s dark and lighter sides.
‘Replacing Ray as Baylan is pretty much impossible but Rory in Game of Thrones was good at being intimidating but also having some heart-felt moments or moments of vulnerability,’ they wrote.
‘I’m so glad we’re continuing Baylan’s story. I’m sure Ray Stevenson wouldn’t have wanted the character to end with him. Hopefully McCann can bring the same gravity to the role that Ray did,’ solo13508 also commented.
When Stevenson died in May 2023, several of his Ahsoka co-stars paid tribute to him, including the lead actor Rosario Dawson, who wrote on Instagram: ‘A giant of a man… @officialraystevenson_ , stunned and reeling from this tragic, devastating news. Gone too soon from this world.
‘At a loss for words… just wanted to mark this moment and share your ever ready and present smile. Love you forever. Holding your family in my heart. #LegendsNeverDie.’
Ahsoka is available to stream on Disney Plus.
Got a story?
If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.
MORE: WWE star pulled from SmackDown after losing over 2 stone in one week
MORE: Ex WWE star Black Bart dies aged 76 after insurance stopped covering treatment
MORE: Fans discover major blooper in classic show as it lands on Netflix
