In the aftermath of Ahsoka‘s finale, Shin Hati actress Ivanna Sahkno has issued a touching tribute to Ray Stevenson. Stevenson was a light to the greater Star Wars galaxy early on, showcasing his excitement for the upcoming series at Star Wars Celebration 2023 – a joy that is clearly shown through his portrayal, which has become the highlight of the Ahsoka Disney+ TV show for many viewers. Sadly, Stevenson passed away on May 21, 2023, leaving his fellow cast and crew heartbroken.
Now that Ahsoka season 1 and thus Stevenson’s time as Baylan has come to an end, Ivanna Sahkno has paid tribute to the light he brought to the world and the Star Wars galaxy. Sahkno shares an image of the Norse wolves Skoll and Hati, upon which her and Stevenson’s characters were based, and writes “For my friend Ray. Forever your Wolf.”
Why Ivanna Sakhno’s Tribute Is So Powerful
Sahkno has gone back to the Norse mythology from which Baylan and Shin are derived in her tribute, which showos just how thoughtful and meaningful her tribute is. Hati and Skoll are the wolves who chased the sun and the moon across the sky, an inseparable duo who find balance in one another. This carries such an emotional weight through Sahkno’s tribute, as it becomes her way of expressing what her partnership with Stevenson was like during their time together as Baylan and Shin.
The tragic passing of Stevenson is nothing short of devastating, and it makes the future of his Star Wars story difficult to face. As a friend more-so than a co-star or colleague to the Ahsoka cast and crew, the idea of re-casting Baylan is painful, although the story of his character and his wonderful portrayal deserves to live on. Sahkno’s touching tribute is a reminder of how meaningful Stevenson is to this galaxy and beyond, which will leave many eyes watching as Baylan’s story is continued in the future of Star Wars.
All episodes of Ahsoka are now streaming on Disney+.
