The Phantom Menace: Where Are The Star Wars Episode 1 Cast Now? (2025 Updates)

Two and a half decades later, *Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace* remains one of the most discussed and pivotal films in cinematic history, having celebrated its massive 25th Anniversary in May 2024 with a triumphant return to theaters. As of late 2024 and early 2025, the cast that launched the Prequel Trilogy—introducing a young Anakin Skywalker, the noble Jedi Master Qui-Gon Jinn, and the future Emperor Palpatine—are busier than ever, with new blockbuster films, critically acclaimed television series, and powerful personal journeys defining their careers.

The film, which introduced the world to the political machinations of the Trade Federation and the iconic dual-bladed lightsaber of Darth Maul, has seen its legacy dramatically re-evaluated. This deep dive into the lives of the core cast reveals where these stars are now, their biggest projects for 2025, and the surprising ways they have re-engaged with the galaxy far, far away.

Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace Core Cast & Current Status (2025)

Below is a detailed look at the actors who brought the world of Naboo, Tatooine, and Coruscant to life, and what they are doing in 2025.

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• Liam Neeson (Qui-Gon Jinn): The wise Jedi Master who discovered Anakin Skywalker on Tatooine.
• Ewan McGregor (Obi-Wan Kenobi): The Padawan learner who would become a Jedi Knight and mentor to Anakin.
• Natalie Portman (Padmé Amidala): The young, courageous Queen of Naboo.
• Jake Lloyd (Anakin Skywalker): The talented child actor who played the young boy destined to become Darth Vader.
• Ahmed Best (Jar Jar Binks/Jedi Master Kelleran Beq): The actor behind the controversial Gungan character, who has since found redemption within the Star Wars universe.
• Ian McDiarmid (Senator Palpatine/Darth Sidious): The master manipulator who would rise to become the Emperor.
• Pernilla August (Shmi Skywalker): Anakin's mother, a slave on Tatooine.
• Anthony Daniels (C-3PO): The only actor to appear in all nine Skywalker Saga films.
• Kenny Baker (R2-D2): The actor inside the iconic astromech droid (Baker passed away in 2016).

The Jedi Masters: Liam Neeson and Ewan McGregor’s 2025 Projects

The relationship between Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi was the emotional core of *The Phantom Menace*. Two and a half decades later, both actors are at the peak of their respective careers, balancing massive franchises with prestige projects.

Ewan McGregor (Obi-Wan Kenobi)

Ewan McGregor’s connection to the Star Wars universe has only deepened since the Prequel Trilogy concluded with *Revenge of the Sith*. His return for the Disney+ series *Obi-Wan Kenobi* was a major success, and his career outside the galaxy remains robust.

• Return to Star Wars: While a second season of *Obi-Wan Kenobi* is not confirmed, McGregor has expressed great enthusiasm for the role and its future.
• 2024 & 2025 TV/Film: McGregor starred in the 2024 Showtime/Paramount+ limited series A Gentleman in Moscow, based on the best-selling novel. He also appeared in the 2024 film MOTHER, COUCH.
• Adventure Series: He continues his passion for motorcycle travel with Charley Boorman, with the new Apple TV+ series Long Way Home set to premiere in May 2025, continuing their Emmy-nominated adventure journey.

Liam Neeson (Qui-Gon Jinn)

Though his character met a tragic end at the hands of Darth Maul, Liam Neeson has become one of Hollywood's most bankable action stars. In 2025, he continues his reign as a modern-day action hero, but with a surprising turn into comedy.

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• Action Thrillers: Neeson's 2024 slate included the film Absolution (November 2024). Looking into 2025, he is set to star in the thriller sequel Ice Road: Vengeance, which is scheduled for a June 2025 release.
• Unexpected Comedy: In a major shift, Neeson is stepping into the world of comedy by starring in the 2025 remake of the classic Leslie Nielsen film, The Naked Gun. This project showcases his versatility beyond the "Taken" persona.
• Potential Return: While Qui-Gon Jinn is deceased, Neeson has reprised the role as a Force ghost voice cameo in the sequel trilogy and briefly appeared in the *Obi-Wan Kenobi* series, leaving the door open for future voice appearances.

The Queen and The Emperor: Portman and McDiarmid’s Enduring Legacy

The two characters at the heart of the Republic’s political drama—Padmé Amidala and Senator Palpatine—have also maintained influential careers, with one focusing on prestige television and the other on perpetuating one of cinema's greatest villains.

Natalie Portman (Padmé Amidala)

Natalie Portman, who played the dual roles of Queen Amidala and her decoy, has an Oscar-winning career defined by high-profile, challenging roles. Her 2024 and 2025 projects show a distinct move into streaming and adventure.

• Apple TV+ Series: Portman made a significant move to television by starring in the 2024 Apple TV+ limited series Lady in the Lake, a psychological thriller based on the novel by Laura Lippman.
• Upcoming Adventure Film: She is set to star alongside John Krasinski in the 2025 adventure film Fountain of Youth for Apple TV+, which has been described as having an Indiana Jones-inspired feel.
• The Gallerist: She is also attached to the upcoming thriller The Gallerist with Jenna Ortega.

Ian McDiarmid (Senator Palpatine/Darth Sidious)

Ian McDiarmid’s performance as the insidious Sith Lord Darth Sidious, who orchestrated the Clone Wars and the fall of the Jedi Order, is legendary. He continues to embody the character across various Star Wars media and fan events.

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• Star Wars Legacy: McDiarmid's role as Emperor Palpatine is cemented across all three trilogies, cementing his status as one of the franchise's most enduring villains.
• Convention Appearances: In 2024 and 2025, McDiarmid remains a highly sought-after guest at major fan conventions, including Twin Cities Con, where he discusses his iconic role and stage career.
• Theatre Focus: While his film roles are less frequent than his co-stars, McDiarmid has a distinguished career in theatre, with recent work including WHAT SHADOWS at the Birmingham.

The Most Discussed Cast Members: Jake Lloyd and Ahmed Best’s Redemptions

The journeys of the actors behind Anakin Skywalker and Jar Jar Binks are arguably the most compelling and sensitive stories from the entire *Phantom Menace* cast, both facing unique challenges related to their time in the Star Wars spotlight.

Jake Lloyd (Anakin Skywalker) - A Personal Saga

Jake Lloyd’s experience playing young Anakin Skywalker was publicly tumultuous, leading him to retire from acting. Recent updates on his life are both sensitive and important, offering a new perspective for 2025.

• Mental Health Update: In a rare and important 2024 interview, Lloyd, now 35, publicly shared an update on his mental health journey, revealing he has been diagnosed with schizophrenia.
• Seeking Help: As of late 2024, it was reported that Lloyd had completed an 18-month stay at an inpatient mental health facility and was continuing to focus on his recovery and treatment, marking a significant step in his personal saga. His family has indicated a new focus on helping him determine his path for 2025.
• Legacy: Despite his struggles, Lloyd’s performance remains a crucial, foundational element of the entire Skywalker Saga, representing the innocence lost to the dark side.

Ahmed Best (Jar Jar Binks) - The Ultimate Star Wars Return

Ahmed Best faced immense, unwarranted backlash for his role as the Gungan Jar Jar Binks, which led to significant personal distress. His triumphant return to the Star Wars universe is one of the most heartwarming stories of the Prequel era's re-evaluation.

• Jedi Master Kelleran Beq: Best found a powerful new role in the galaxy, playing Jedi Master Kelleran Beq, the character who saved Grogu (Baby Yoda) during Order 66, in the Disney+ series The Mandalorian. This role has earned him widespread praise and a new connection with fans.
• Potential Jar Jar Return: In a major update for 2024/2025, Best has teased a potential return as Jar Jar Binks for an upcoming 2025 Star Wars Disney+ show, suggesting the character’s future is not yet written.
• New Projects: Best continues to work within the Star Wars ecosystem, having hosted the game show Jedi Temple Challenge, and discussing his involvement with the *Light & Magic* documentary. He has also pitched a "Jedi John Wick" style project for his character Kelleran Beq.

The Supporting Players: Enduring Star Wars Entities

The cast of *The Phantom Menace* included several entities and actors whose contributions were vital to the film's success and the overall Star Wars lore.

• Pernilla August (Shmi Skywalker): The Swedish actress continues to work in European film and television, with numerous projects in her native Sweden, cementing her status as a respected international actress. Her character's fate and the line "I am your mother" remain a tragic, foundational element of Anakin’s story.
• Anthony Daniels (C-3PO): Daniels holds the unique distinction of being the only actor to appear in every live-action Star Wars theatrical film. He continues to voice the golden protocol droid in various animated projects, video games, and theme park attractions, including the *Rise of the Resistance* ride.
• Ray Park (Darth Maul): The martial artist and actor who brought the menacing Sith Lord Darth Maul to life, primarily through stunning choreography in the "Duel of the Fates," continues to work as a stunt performer and actor in various action films and television series, and remains a fan-favorite at conventions.

The enduring appeal of *Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace*, highlighted by its 25th-anniversary celebration, is a testament to the powerful characters and world-building of George Lucas's Prequel Trilogy. The cast's ongoing careers, from Neeson's action blockbusters to McGregor's prestige TV and the redemptive, personal sagas of Ahmed Best and Jake Lloyd, prove that the Force is still strong with them.