'Star Wars’ child star, Jake Lloyd, opens up about Schizophrenia recovery

Former Anakin Skywalker, shares progress on his mental health journey, embracing therapy and treatment.

Jake Lloyd, the former child actor who portrayed Anakin Skywalker in Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace, has shared a positive update on his mental health journey. Now 35, Lloyd is embracing therapy and treatment for schizophrenia, a condition he has battled for years.

In a rare interview with author Clayton Sandell, Lloyd revealed that he recently completed an 18-month stay at an inpatient mental health facility in Southern California. He is now residing in a rehabilitation center. Lloyd shared that he was feeling “pretty good” Lloyd and that he has accepted continued treatment, therapy, and medication. His mother, Lisa Lloyd, confirmed his progress, calling it a relief for the family.

Diagnosed with schizophrenia in 2015 after a history of legal troubles and a psychotic break, Lloyd struggled with anosognosia, a condition where individuals fail to recognize their illness. This often made treatment difficult. Lisa explained that Lloyd’s condition has familial roots but clarified that the backlash he received as a child actor did not contribute to his struggles.

Despite past challenges, Lloyd remains connected to the Star Wars universe as a fan, enjoying classic video games and appreciating therapeutic interactions with fans. He plans to catch up on Disney’s latest Star Wars projects during this year’s May the Fourth celebrations.

“It’s a big relief for me and the rest of his family,” Lisa said of his improvement. “We’re thrilled he’s working hard at it.”