Stevenson, who played Baylan Skoll, died three months before the show’s premiere in 2023. Ahsoka fans have applauded the “great” casting choice to replace the late Ray Stevenson in season two. Stevenson played fan-favourite character jedi Baylan Skoll in the Disney Plus series before he died in May 2023, three months before the series premiered.
![[Ray Stevenson died in May 2023]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2023/05/22/19/GettyImages-859993924%20copy.jpg)
The actor, also known for his roles in Thor, Vikings, and the Divergent film franchise, was 58 years old when he died following a short illness. After much discussion over who would replace the actor in the Star Wars spin-off – and whether or not the role should be recast at all – it has now been announced that Scottish star Rory McCann will be stepping into the part.
![[Rory McCann as The Hound in ‘Game of Thrones’]](https://static.independent.co.uk/s3fs-public/thumbnails/image/2015/08/24/09/thehound.png)
McCann is best known for his memorable portrayal of the brute known as The Hound (aka Sandor Clegane) on HBO’s Game of Thrones. He appeared in all seasons of the hit show, besides series five. Fans of Ahsoka have praised the decision, with many people on Reddit calling it a “great choice”.
![[Ray Stevenson in ‘Ahsoka']](https://static.independent.co.uk/2023/10/05/09/newFile-1.jpg)
“I’ve been waiting with baited breath to find out who they would cast to try to fill such an impactful role, Ray was so amazing I couldn’t think of anyone that would be able to bring that same imposing aura,” wrote one person. “This casting 100 per cent nails it, cannot wait for Ahsoka season two now.”.
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