Ahsoka producer Carrie Beck discussed the positive energy the late actor Ray Stevenson brought to the set.
Beck discussed Stevenson's impact on the show in the latest issue of Total Film Magazine. "Ray's presence loomed large on set," she said. "During the production, he had an infectious enthusiasm and gregariousness that he shared with his fellow cast and crew." In Ahsoka, Stevenson portrays a former Jedi who turned to the dark side and now serves Grand Admiral Thrawn (Lars Mikkelson). Beck also praised his take on the character, specifically how he brought "a philosopher's depth to Baylan that pairs well with his imposing physical strength."
Stevenson is known for playing Titus Pullo in HBO's Rome, the Punisher in 2008's Punisher: War Zone, Volstagg in the Thor franchise, and Scott Buxton, the main antagonist in 2022's critically-acclaimed RRR. Before being cast in the live-action Star Wars show, Stevenson also voiced Mandalorian Gar Saxon on the animated shows Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels. Stevenson passed away on May 21, 2023, while filming Cassino in Ischia in Italy.
"It's still difficult to comprehend that he will not be here to experience the outcome of his hard work," Beck continued. "At Star Wars Celebration this past April he was so energized by the outpouring of love from the Star Wars fandom. We will all miss him terribly."
Ahsoka Cast Remembers Ray Stevenson
Beck's praise of Stevenson has been echoed by Rosario Dawson, who plays the titular Jedi in Ahsoka. "A giant of a man… Ray Stevenson, stunned and reeling from this tragic, devastating news. Gone too soon from this world," Dawson posted following Stevenson's death. "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."
Dawson also shared several images of herself with Stevenson, as well as fellow Ahsoka stars Ivanna Sakhno and Natasha Liu Bordizzo. Sakhno, who is also playing an antagonist in Ahsoka, previously shared how comfortable Stevenson made her feel while they were filming scenes together. "I remember the first scene that we were filming, [Ray] came up with a song for Shin. I can't say too much of the scene itself, but Ray would just constantly walk around like, 'Who let the Shin out? Who, who, who…?"
Ahsoka premieres on Aug. 23 on Disney+.
Source: Total Film, via Slash Film