Jake Lloyd, best known for his portrayal of young Anakin Skywalker in Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace, is starting 2025 on a positive note. At 35, Lloyd has made significant strides in his mental health recovery, following an 18-month stay at a mental health facility in Southern California. Now residing in a rehabilitation center, Lloyd is continuing treatment for schizophrenia, a condition he has battled for years.
Lloyd’s Mental Health Journey
Lloyd’s mother, Lisa Lloyd, recently shared updates on his progress. She highlighted that Jake struggled with anosognosia, a condition common among those with schizophrenia, which impairs one’s ability to recognize their own health issues.
“Jake’s actually getting so much better than he was,” Lisa said. “It’s a big relief for me and the rest of his family. We’re all just thrilled that he’s doing as well as he is, and that he’s working really hard at it. We appreciate that.”
Jake himself shared an optimistic outlook:
“Pretty good, considering these 20 years of time that have come to an end. I can now accept taking on continued treatment, therapy, and my meds. Everyone’s been very supportive.”
Lisa clarified that it has not been 20 years since Jake was diagnosed, but his recovery marks a pivotal turn after years of challenges.
A Complex History
Lloyd’s struggles date back to his early years of fame. At just 8 years old, he was cast by George Lucas in The Phantom Menace, becoming a global face of the Star Wars franchise. While Lisa maintains that the negative response to the film didn’t contribute to Jake leaving acting or his mental health issues, a family history of schizophrenia on his father’s side played a significant role.
In 2015, Jake faced legal trouble after a road trip arrest in South Carolina, spending 10 months in prison. In 2023, he experienced a psychotic break, leading to another arrest after he stopped his car in the middle of a busy road. These incidents marked low points in Jake’s journey, but also served as catalysts for him to embrace treatment.
“Hitting ‘rock bottom’ was necessary to honestly take part in treatment, honestly take your meds, and honestly live with your diagnosis,” Jake reflected.
Finding Comfort in Star Wars
Despite the challenges, Lloyd remains a Star Wars fan. He finds solace in the franchise’s video games and described interactions with fans as “immediately therapeutic.”
Although he avoids fan conventions, he appreciates the enduring support from the Star Wars community.
“I really do appreciate the time that’s been taken on us. I’m very appreciative.”
Lloyd also shared plans for “May the Fourth”—the unofficial Star Wars Day—when he and his mother plan to catch up on the latest films and shows from Disney.
Looking Ahead
Jake’s family remains optimistic about his ongoing recovery, with Lisa expressing relief and pride in his hard work:
“It’s a big relief for me and the rest of his family. We’re all just thrilled that he’s doing as well as he is.”
As Lloyd continues his journey of healing, his story stands as a testament to resilience and the importance of mental health awareness.
