Entertainment
Natalie Portman Rumored to Return as Padmé in ‘Ahsoka’ Season 2
LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Natalie Portman may reprise her iconic role as Padmé Amidala in the upcoming second season of Disney+’s ‘Ahsoka,’ according to industry insider Kristian Harloff. The potential return, while unconfirmed, has sparked excitement among Star Wars fans.
Harloff, a trusted source with ties to the Star Wars franchise, revealed that Dave Filoni, the show’s creator, has been actively pursuing Portman’s return. This follows earlier reports that Ewan McGregor (Obi-Wan Kenobi), Hayden Christensen (Anakin Skywalker), and Ariana Greenblatt (young Ahsoka) are also set to appear in the new season.
Portman, who last portrayed Padmé in 2005’s ‘Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith,’ has not been involved in the franchise since. However, in recent interviews, she expressed openness to returning if asked. Her potential comeback would mark a significant moment for the series, as Padmé’s story has largely remained untouched in live-action Star Wars projects.
Harloff speculated that Padmé’s return could be facilitated through the ‘World Between Worlds,’ a mystical dimension introduced in Season 1 that allowed for Clone Wars-era flashbacks. This narrative device could provide a seamless way to integrate her character into the storyline.
Production for ‘Ahsoka’ Season 2 is reportedly set to begin this spring, with filming expected to start as early as April. While no official casting announcements have been made, the core cast, including Rosario Dawson as Ahsoka Tano, is anticipated to return.
Portman’s potential involvement comes on the heels of her surprise return to another major franchise, Marvel‘s ‘Thor: Love and Thunder,’ in 2022. Her ability to reprise beloved roles after long absences has made her a fan favorite for such comebacks.
As of now, Lucasfilm has not commented on the rumors, leaving fans to speculate about how Padmé’s story might unfold in the ever-expanding Star Wars universe.