Jake Lloyd, who rose to fame as a young Anakin Skywalker in 1999 Star Wars: Episode 1 – The Phantom Menacespeaks candidly about his mental health struggles and schizophrenia diagnosis that contributed to his departure from Hollywood shortly after the film was released.
In a new interview with Star Wars: Timelines Clayton Sandel's co-author Jake Lloyd said he feels “pretty good” after completing an 18-month stay at an inpatient mental health facility in Southern California. He is currently staying at a new rehab center, where he is still receiving treatment but is a free agent in terms of leaving and returning.
“[I feel] “Pretty good, considering these 20 years that have passed.” “I can now accept continuing with my treatment, therapy and medication. Everyone has been so supportive.”
As Jake Lloyd's mother, Lisa Lloyd, said earlier last year, part of the problem was overcoming anosmia, a neurological condition that causes the patient to unconsciously deny their symptoms.
“I don't have time to feel moody,” Jake Lloyd said of taking medication. “It's pretty much a pillow.” The former actor said that “good things” came from his time in treatment and that hitting “rock bottom” was necessary in order to “honestly engage in treatment, honestly take your medication, and honestly live with your diagnosis.”
At just 8 years old, Jake Lloyd has become a well-known face after appearing in George Lucas's first prequel film. Lisa Lloyd previously said the backlash to her son's acting was not among the reasons he left the industry, as she protected him from online vitriol, putting it down to personal and family issues. She also added at the time that the negative response did not lead to the diagnosis, which is genetic.
While Jake Lloyd has since stopped appearing at conventions, he said the series — and its adoring fans — still hold a special place in his heart.
“The experience I had with the fans was immediately therapeutic. Right now, it's still therapeutic. It's good for people and healthy. It's not something I'm ashamed of.”
He added: “I really appreciate the time we had. I'm very grateful.”
As for which star wars Reunion, Jake Lloyd said he's looking forward to watching the movies on the quintessential galactic holiday: “I'm anticipating May 4th with my mom,” he explained.
before The imaginary threatJake Lloyd was in films like Jingle all the way Along with Arnold Schwarzenegger and Apollo 11. On television, Jake has appeared in episodes er and prosecutor. His last film credit was in 2001 Madison.
