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TheStar Warsprequels have a bit of a maligned reputation among the franchise’s fanbase. When the films were released, they received mixed reviews but reception has improved in recent years, leading to Hayden Christensen reprising his role.
Like Christensen, actor Jake Lloyd, who played young Anakin Skywalker in the prequels, also received hate from fans for his performance. However, the hate seemingly hurt the young actor, leading to several personal issues. Here is why Jake Lloyd hated hisStar Warsexperience and why he deserves a redemption arc.
Star WarsPrequel Trilogy Actor Jake Lloyd Hated His Experience on the Franchise
Jake Lloydplayed the role of Anakin Skywalker in the first installment of theStar Warsprequels, 1999’sThe Phantom Menace. However, the film received mixed reviews after release, with criticism aimed at the acting, including Lloyd’s performance.
Following the backlash from the fans after the movie, Lloyd quit acting entirely. During an interview, Lloyd spoke about his experience on the franchise in 2012.
My entire school life was really a living hell, and I had to do up to 60 interviews a day.
Lloyd made the above statement (viaNBC News), explaining why he harbors a dislike for the space opera franchise.
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Since the 1999 film, Lloyd has remained away from the big screen and reportedly only made sporadic appearances at conventions. He allegedly also burned down hisStar Warsmemorabilia, further proving that the young actor hated his experience in the franchise.
Jake Lloyd’s Personal Struggles Prove He Deserves a Hayden Christensen-like Redemption
Since leaving the movie-making business, Lloyd has struggled with a number of personal issues in his adulthood, which have beenwell-documented in the media. Lloyd wasreportedlydiagnosed with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, with several stints in the hospital.
On the other hand, Lloyd also had a few run-ins with the law. However, according to Lloyd’s mother, the former child actor’s struggles weren’t because of his work inStar Warsand he remained a fan of the franchise. Nonetheless, fans on social mediaagreethat the backlash Lloyd faced was far too extreme.
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In the recent past,Hayden Christensen, who received similar backlash for playing Anakin Skywalker, completed his redemption arc by returning to the franchise for theObi-Wan KenobiandAhsokaseries, underDave Filoni.
The reception of the prequels has always improved in recent years, and Christensen’s return proves that fans and Filoni are willing to embrace the franchise’s past despite the missteps. As a result, Lloyd is due a similar redemption within the fanbase, especially after the difficult time he faced after hisStar Warsappearance.
TheStar Warsmovies are streaming on Disney+.
Pratik Handore
Content Writer
Articles Published :1773
With a keen interest in comic book movies and blockbuster franchises, Pratik usually covers news and updates on the DCU, MCU, Star Wars, and more.A die-hard fan of George Lucas and Steven Spielberg, Pratik spends most of his time exploring different storytelling mediums that invoke a sense of wonder and adventure. Other filmmakers whose works have deeply influenced him include Alfred Hitchcock, James Gunn, and Guillermo del Toro.
