Jake Lloyd, "Star Wars" Child Actor, Addresses Fans Amid Schizophrenia Battle

Former child actor Jake Lloyd, widely recognized for his role as a young Anakin Skywalker in "Star Wars: The Phantom Menace," has released a video addressing fans of the franchise. Lloyd appeared alongside Daniel Logan, who played a young Boba Fett in "Star Wars: Attack of the Clones," in an Instagram video posted by Logan.

The video, which has garnered nearly two million views, features Lloyd making a shy appearance. Logan expressed gratitude on behalf of both actors, stating, "We want to send a special message to each and every one of our Star Wars fans to let you know, thank you so much." Lloyd echoed the sentiment, adding, "Very, very much so. I really appreciate that time."

Lloyd, now 37, has been managing paranoid schizophrenia, a diagnosis he received in 2008 after an earlier incorrect diagnosis of bipolar disorder in high school. In 2023, he experienced a severe psychotic break, which he has linked to the death of his younger sister, Madison, in 2018. This period resulted in an 18-month stay in a mental health facility.

In previous years, Lloyd faced legal issues. In 2015, he served 10 months in jail for charges including reckless driving and driving without a license. This followed an incident where he assaulted his mother, Lisa Riley, though she declined to press charges.

Last year, Lloyd's mother shared that her son was improving, stating he was "actually getting so much better than he was." Lloyd himself indicated he was doing "pretty good" and was committed to his treatment, medication, and therapy, describing the medication as a "cushion" that prevents him from feeling "volatile."

Lloyd's career began at age 7 with a role in "Jingle All the Way" alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger, before landing his most famous role as the young Anakin Skywalker.