Anakin Skywalker Role Almost Went to Sons of Anarchy Star, But Fate Had Different Plans
Sons of Anarchy star reveals a missed opportunity to portray Anakin in Star Wars, recounting encounters with George Lucas Hunnam shares his experience of coming close to the iconic role, but ultimately feeling a disconnect with the project's 'vibes'
Charlie Hunnam almost landed the role of Anakin in 2002's Star Wars: Episode II -- Attack of the Clones. He revealed to Entertainment Tonight that he made it far enough in the audition process to have a meeting with Star Wars creator George Lucas. However, Hunnam admitted that he felt he didn't perform well and sensed that the "vibes" were not in his favor. "I got to the point where I was meeting George Lucas. I don't think he meets a lot of actors," said Hunnam. "I think there was probably maybe two, three actors they were considering. I don't remember much about it. I remember that I was nervous, and I was a little bit awkward and I remember walking out and thinking, 'Well, I'm definitely not getting that role.' And I was correct. Sometimes it's about the vibes."
In 2001's Episode 1: The Phantom Menace, Jake Lloyd portrayed a young Anakin. Hayden Christensen took on the role of an older Anakin in Attack of the Clones and Revenge of the Sith. Leonardo DiCaprio declined the role, and Paul Walker was also not chosen.
Charlie Hunnam may not have gotten the role of Anakin, but he is now set to star in the Star Wars-inspired Netflix film Rebel Moon. He is most recognized for his role as Jax on Sons of Anarchy.
Christensen is experiencing a resurgence, having portrayed Anakin/Darth Vader on the TV show Obi-Wan Kenobi and in Ahsoka. There is speculation about his potential involvement in another project, and Christensen has expressed interest in doing so.
Editor's P/S
As a passionate Star Wars fan, I can't help but feel a sense of intrigue and curiosity about the alternate reality where Charlie Hunnam portrayed Anakin Skywalker. Hunnam's revelation about his audition and encounter with George Lucas adds a fascinating layer to the casting process of such an iconic role. While it's understandable that he felt nervous and sensed a disconnect during the audition, I can't help but wonder how his interpretation of Anakin would have shaped the character and the overall narrative of the prequels.
On the other hand, I also have immense respect for the actors who ultimately brought Anakin Skywalker to life on screen. Jake Lloyd's portrayal of the young Anakin in The Phantom Menace captured the innocence and vulnerability of the character, while Hayden Christensen's performance in Attack of the Clones and Revenge of the Sith showcased Anakin's descent into darkness and internal conflict. Their performances have become integral to the Star Wars legacy, and it's hard to imagine anyone else embodying Anakin in the same way.
