12 Actors Who Auditioned to Play Anakin Skywalker in 'Star Wars' Movies Before Hayden Christensen Was Cast (an Oscar Winner Turned Down the Role!)

The Star Wars prequel movies were some of the hottest blockbusters in Hollywood when they were released, and Anakin Skywalker was a very popular role for young actors! Booking the part launched Hayden Christensen onto the map. He famously made his debut in the franchise playing the man who would eventually become Darth Vader in 2002′s Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones . However, he faced stiff competition before he was cast.

Before Hayden booked the part, 300 actors reportedly auditioned. In fact, the competition was so star-studded that he admitted that he never expected to be cast . Over the years, 13 of those actors (including Hayden ) have been identified.



The list includes a fan-favorite, award-winning movie star who seemingly turned the role down for a simple reason. If you missed it, Hayden announced that he will be returning to the Star Wars universe ! Scroll through a rundown of all the actors who were in the running to play a young Darth Vader in the Star Wars movies..

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