How did Hayden Christensen return as Darth Vader?

Hayden Christensen has revealed just how easy a choice it was for him to make the return as Darth Vader for the new Disney+ series, Obi-Wan Kenobi.

In the mid-noughties, Christensen suddenly became one of the most famous actors in the world when he was cast to play Anakin Skywalker in the second two Star Wars prequels, Attack of the Clones and Revenge of the Sith.

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The prequel trilogy, again developed by George Lucas, is generally considered to be a disappointment among Star Wars fanatics.

Though the majority of the blame for the lack of critical success is pointed at the script, Christensen was the target of criticism too for his portrayal of one of the most famous villains in movie history, albeit an early incarnation.

Following the trilogy, Christensen's career stagnated as he took a step back from blockbuster productions.

The announcement that he would be returning as Vader for the Obi-Wan Kenobi series had the potential to be polarising, but he has received almost universal support from fans, who clearly want to see him have another crack at playing the Sith Lord.

When asked about his decision to return, Christensen said it was an easy one.

"It meant a great deal to me," he told the Cutaway.

"This character that has sort of defined my life in so many ways, and getting to continue my journey with him is just hugely meaningful. There wasn’t a lot to wrestle with; it was a pretty easy decision. When I got the phone call and the invitation to come back, it was a very quick yes."

Christensen last portrayed the character 17 years ago, and since that time he has naturally grown up. He describes the opportunity to return to playing Vader after so long as "unique".

"That's what's interesting about coming back after all this time. Being in a different place in my life and having a new perspective in my work," he explained.

"We all evolve over time. The time that you have, thinking about your work, processing it.

"This is a character that has stayed with me. Coming back to it, and continuing my exploration, it's been a very unique opportunity."

Obi-Wan Kenobi will star Ewan McGregor, who is also reprising his role from the prequel trilogy. The first two episodes of the series will be released on Disney+ on 27 May.