During the filming of Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith, the renowned actor Robert De Niro made an unexpected appearance on set, a moment that has now been vividly recalled by Hayden Christensen. This surprising encounter, which involved cast members like Ewan McGregor and Christensen, happened during the production of the film’s intense duel scene on Mustafar and has since become a notable event in Star Wars history. The story underscores the excitement surrounding the Robert De Niro Star Wars set experience for both cast and crew.
Unexpected Meeting Unfolds on Iconic Star Wars Scene
While working on the climactic confrontation between Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi, Christensen and McGregor were in the midst of preparing for one of the saga’s most famous moments. According to Christensen, De Niro’s presence became apparent during the shoot, which took place on the fictional planet Mustafar. The visit caught the attention of both lead actors as they were intensely focused on their roles for the legendary lightsaber duel.
“Robert DeNiro showed up to set,”
said Hayden Christensen. “I remember just standing with Ewan, and Ewan says to me, ‘Is that Robert De Niro standing over there?’ And I’m looking over like, ‘Yeah, I think that is him.’ So we’re excited he’s there, and then he walked over, and he was very friendly. I remember I would do a lot of push-ups before each take to get my heart rate up and a little exhaustion going, and he said, ‘You know, I see you doing push-ups before the takes. I do that too.’ That felt good.“ — Hayden Christensen, Performer
Ewan McGregor’s Humorous Take on the Encounter
Ewan McGregor, who portrays Obi-Wan Kenobi, also offered his version of the story at a fan expo, bringing humor to the unexpected visit. McGregor remembered hearing rumors that De Niro was on set and only caught a glimpse of the legendary actor as he was being spun around on a prop during filming.
“We cut, and as we’re waiting to do the next take, he [Christensen] goes, ‘I heard that De Niro might be here,’”
shared McGregor at a fan event (via @starlordziggy).
“My prop guy hadn’t stopped turning me around, and as I was turning, I saw De Niro behind the monitor. I was like, ‘It’s too late. He’s here.’”
— Ewan McGregor, Performer
The Actor’s Visit Becomes a Memorable Behind-the-Scenes Moment
The cast reflected on the event with amusement, with McGregor laughing about recognizing De Niro just as he was finishing a scene. He would later recount the awkwardness of the moment to De Niro, highlighting the lasting impression the visit made on him and the sense of camaraderie on the Star Wars set.
These candid recollections by Hayden Christensen and Ewan McGregor provide fans a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world of one of cinema’s most famous franchises. Such stories underline not only the dedication of the actors—seen as Christensen prepared physically for each take—but also the excitement and honor the cast felt in sharing their workspace, even temporarily, with a performer of Robert De Niro’s stature.
What Lies Ahead for Star Wars and Christensen
Looking forward, Christensen is set to bring Anakin Skywalker back to screens in the second season of Ahsoka, though Disney+ has yet to announce a release date. The stories from the Robert De Niro Star Wars set encounter continue to resonate with fans, further enriching the Star Wars legacy and highlighting the unforgettable moments experienced by its cast and crew.
