Years after stepping away from acting, Jake Lloyd, best known for playing young Anakin Skywalker in Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace, is reportedly doing better following a long-term treatment program. Now 37, Lloyd retired from acting in 2000 and later faced serious mental-health challenges that became more noticeable during high school. His mother, Lisa Lloyd, previously explained that he began struggling to understand what was real and eventually received a diagnosis of schizophrenia, followed by a period of depression. He also experienced anosognosia, a condition that can make it difficult for someone to recognize that they are unwell, which created additional challenges with treatment and medication. After years of ups and downs, a recent update from Star Wars: Timelines co-author Clayton Sandell offered a much more hopeful picture of Lloyd’s life today.

Sandell, who has followed Jake and Lisa’s journey, recently shared that Jake completed a long-term treatment program in June designed to help him stay consistent with medication, therapy, and everyday life skills. Sandell said he was doing better than he had ever seen him, describing Jake as “engaging, curious, and funny” during their time together. The two reportedly spent time talking about video games and editing programs, interests that continue to bring Jake enjoyment. His mother has also remained a steady source of support throughout the difficult years. While recovery can take time and progress may come gradually, Sandell said there are many reasons to feel optimistic about Jake’s future. For fans who remember him as young Anakin, the update offers a meaningful reminder that his life has continued far beyond his childhood role, with new possibilities and brighter days ahead.