‘Star Wars’ child actor Jake Lloyd shares update on schizophrenia battle amid ‘everyone’s support’
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Jake Lloyd, the former child actor known for playing Anakin Skywalker in 'Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace', shared that he feels "pretty good" as 2025 begins.
Now 35, Jake recently completed an 18-month stay at an inpatient mental health facility in Southern California, according to author Clayton Sandell, who reported the update on Substack on Wednesday, January 1.
Jake Lloyd struggled with anosognosia during early diagnosis
Jake Lloyd, who was diagnosed with schizophrenia, is now living at a rehabilitation center while receiving ongoing treatment.
Lisa Lloyd, his mother, told Sandell earlier this year that her son faced anosognosia, a condition often linked to schizophrenia.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, anosognosia prevents individuals from recognizing their health conditions.
Jake shared that he was embracing treatment when Sandell asked how he was doing.
"Pretty good, considering these 20 years of time that have come to an end," he replied.
"I can now accept taking on continued treatment, and therapy, and my meds. Everyone's been very supportive," Jake added.
Lisa clarified to Sandell that it had not been 20 years since Jake’s diagnosis but expressed her relief about his recovery.
Jake Lloyd's mom Lisa Lloyd appreciates his recovery progress
Jake Lloyd gained fame at age 8 for his role as young Anakin Skywalker in the George Lucas-directed film.
He also appeared in episodes of the TV series 'ER' and starred alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger in the 1996 movie 'Jingle All the Way'.
Despite his early success, his career was impacted by legal and mental health struggles.
In 2015, Jake was arrested in South Carolina during a road trip from Florida to Canada, leading to a 10-month prison sentence.
Lisa later told TMZ that her son was diagnosed with schizophrenia. In May 2023, he experienced a "psychotic break" and was arrested after stopping his car in the middle of a three-lane road, People noted.
Jake Lloyd's mom Lisa Lloyd says he's getting 'better'
Speaking about his recovery, Jake Lloyd told Clayton Sandell, "It was necessary to honestly take part in treatment, honestly take your meds, and honestly live with your diagnosis."
Lisa added, "Jake’s actually getting so much better than he was."
Lisa also shared her gratitude, saying, "It’s a big relief for me and the rest of his family."
She added, "We're all just thrilled that he's doing as well as he is, and that he's working really hard at it. We appreciate that."
