Charlie Hunnam reveals he auditioned to play Anakin Skywalker in Star Wars

Actor Charlie Hunnam recently revealed that he was on the verge of becoming the iconic Anakin Skywalker in Star Wars. However, the role eventually went to Hayden Christensen.

Charlie Hunnam confirms that he auditioned for Anakin Skywalker

Charlie Hunnam confirmed the long-standing rumour that he auditioned for the role of Anakin Skywalker. He also recounted a nerve-wracking one-on-one meeting with Star Wars creator George Lucas.

He said, "I had forgotten that too, but yes, I did. I got to the point where I was meeting George Lucas, you know? Which... I don't think he meets a lot of actors, I think it was probably, maybe, two to three actors they were considering. I don't remember much about it."

“And I just remember it being a very awkward meeting and walking out and thinking, 'Well, I'm definitely not [getting the] role.' And I was correct. Sometimes it's about the vibes,” he added. 

Recalling the meeting with Lucas, Hunnam admitted to feeling nervous, describing it as an awkward encounter. Despite the apprehension, the actor left the meeting with a realisation that he might not secure the role. The actor humorously emphasised the role of "vibes" in such high-stakes auditions.

Hayden Christensen was chosen as Anakin Skywalker

Ultimately, Hayden Christensen emerged as the chosen one for Anakin Skywalker, despite the fierce competition. Reflecting on his excitement in a 2000 interview, the actor expressed eagerness about podracing and using the Force.

Fast forward to 2022, Christensen reprised his role alongside Ewan McGregor in Disney+'s Obi-Wan Kenobi. The limited series picks up a decade after Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith, exploring Obi-Wan Kenobi's efforts to protect the secret existence of Luke Skywalker.

Christensen's return extended to Ahsoka, where Anakin faced off against Rosario Dawson's Ahsoka Tano. This reinforced the notion that the Star Wars franchise allows its stars to revisit iconic roles when the narrative permits.