Rey Skywalker and Ahsoka Tano Join Forces in a Surprising Studio Ghibli Film

Daisy Ridley, acclaimed for her role as Rey Skywalker in the Star Wars sequel trilogy, and Ashley Eckstein, celebrated for voicing Ahsoka Tano in animated series, share an intriguing connection through their work in an unexpected project: a Studio Ghibli film. Both women have left a significant imprint on the Star Wars universe; Eckstein was the pioneering voice of Ahsoka Tano in Star Wars: The Clone Wars, while Ridley brought Rey Skywalker to life throughout the sequel trilogy. Notably, their paths intertwined only once—outside the realm of Star Wars.

In an interesting twist, Ridley and Eckstein also contributed their voices to the same Star Wars film. During a memorable moment in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, Rey hears several past Jedi, including Ahsoka Tano, voiced by Eckstein, just as she prepares for her climactic battle with Emperor Palpatine. This marks the inaugural on-screen interaction between Rey and Ahsoka, yet their initial collaboration dates back to 2016, predating their animated encounter.

Daisy Ridley & Ashley Eckstein: A Collaboration in 2016

Voice Acting Roles in Only Yesterday

Long before their animated intersection in The Rise of Skywalker, Ridley and Eckstein lent their voices to the enchanting Studio Ghibli film Only Yesterday. This poignant story follows Saeko, a woman overwhelmed by work, who embarks on a reflective holiday, revisiting her childhood experiences and memories. While Only Yesterday diverges from the fantastical themes commonly associated with titles like Howl’s Moving Castle and Spirited Away, it provides a unique narrative focusing on personal growth and nostalgia.

Originally released in 1991, Only Yesterday did not feature an English dub until 2016, allowing Ridley to voice Taeko, the film’s protagonist, and Eckstein to portray Yaeko, Taeko’s elder sister. This collaboration occurred three years prior to the duo’s interaction in the Star Wars saga, showcasing how Studio Ghibli united these two talented actresses well before they graced the galaxy far, far away.

The Future of Ridley & Eckstein in Star Wars

Potential for Rey & Ahsoka to Cross Paths Again

Rey from Star Wars and Ahsoka Tano Scene

While Ridley and Eckstein have yet to share the screen in a Star Wars narrative since The Rise of Skywalker, opportunities could emerge in the expansive galaxy. Considering the timeline gaps, particularly during Rey’s training between Star Wars: The Last Jedi and The Rise of Skywalker, there exists a potential for their characters to unite. Ahsoka’s fate remains uncertain, allowing for the possibility of her existing in the timeline alongside Rey, particularly around 34 ABY.

However, there are challenges to this collaboration coming to fruition. Ahsoka’s appearance in The Rise of Skywalker hinted at her potential demise during the sequel trilogy, creating uncertainty around her character’s future. Moreover, should Rey and Ahsoka’s paths collide, Ridley would likely only collaborate with Eckstein through animation, as Ahsoka is portrayed by Rosario Dawson in the live-action adaptation. While fans remain hopeful, Star Wars appears cautious about reuniting these beloved characters.

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