'Star Wars' Auditions - 12 Actors Considered to Play Anakin Before Hayden Christensen was Cast (an Oscar-Winner Turned It Down)

The role of Anakin Skywalker in the Star Wars prequel series launched Hayden Christensen onto the map.

The actor famously made his debut in the popular franchise playing the man who would eventually become Darth Vader in 2002′s Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones. However, he faced stiff competition to book what was an incredibly coveted part.

1999′s Episode I – The Phantom Menace introduced Anakin as a child played by Jake Lloyd. However, a 10-year time lapse meant that the role had to be recast for the sequel.

Before Hayden booked the part, 300 actors reportedly auditioned. In fact, the competition was so star-studded that he recently admitted that he never thought he’d be cast.

Over the years, 13 of those actors (including Hayden) have been identified. The list includes a fan-favorite, award-winning movie star who seemingly turned the role down for a simple reason.

Scroll through a rundown of all the actors who were in the running to play a young Darth Vader in the Star Wars movies…