Jake Lloyd, the actor who portrayed young Anakin Skywalker in Star Wars: The Phantom Menace, has given a rare interview revealing he will soon complete an inpatient treatment programme for schizophrenia and is now aiming to break into professional esports.
Rare Public Appearance and Interview
Lloyd, now 37, spoke with Star Wars expert Clayton Sandell during a video call appearance. Sandell posted a video on Instagram on May 4, 2026, confirming that Lloyd will finish his inpatient treatment this summer. “And he’s thrilled about moving forward,” Sandell said. “He’s buzzing about progressing with his life, which he says includes attempting to break into esports.”
Sandell described Lloyd as a “massive gamer” after their conversation, noting the former actor appeared “fantastic.” Lloyd said he is in the “right headspace about things” as he prepares to wrap up his treatment programme. “They ensure that you leave with some tools in your arsenal,” Lloyd explained. “Recovery above all is a coping strategy, so that’s brilliant. And I’m able to absorb the treatment, therapy and socialising in a healthy, constructive way.”
From Child Star to Treatment
Lloyd became a huge child star after The Phantom Menace was released in 1999, but was diagnosed with schizophrenia just two years later. He has since lived a reclusive life and has been in treatment for the illness. In 2015, he was arrested after a high-speed car chase.
When asked about his ambition to enter esports, Lloyd said, “That’s what seemed most relevant given my background and having any future whatsoever. So, I’m genuinely thrilled about that.” He revealed that he was in the “top 500” of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare when it initially launched. “I’m not really able to play as much as I should in treatment, but I’m in the top four of eliminations for Call of Duty now, and I use that as a resume,” he added.
Gaming and Future Plans
Lloyd also plays some Star Wars games but admitted he doesn’t “really have the time” to watch the films or shows. Addressing fans who have supported him over the years, he said, “I’d love to say thank you to everybody who’s able to be supportive.” For the next five years, his focus remains on “medicine, therapy and not messing with somebody’s time.”
