Why This ‘Star Wars’ Child Actor Disappeared from Hollywood for over 20 Years

In the vast expanse of Hollywood, few stories are as compelling and puzzling as that of Jake Lloyd. Born Jake Matthew Lloyd Broadbent on March 5, 1989, in Fort Collins, Colorado, his journey into the heart of the film industry began at an incredibly young age.

Garnering fame for his portrayal of Anakin Skywalker in “Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace,” Jake’s career trajectory seemed set for the stars. Directed by George Lucas, the film ascended to become the second-highest-grossing movie globally at the box office at the time, trailing only behind the monumental “Titanic” (1997).

Selected from a pool of approximately 3,000 child actors, Jake was chosen to embody the nine-year-old Anakin, a role that would etch his name into cinematic history. Despite the fame and acclaim that came with being a part of the “Star Wars” saga, Jake’s presence in Hollywood began to fade shortly after.

His last role was filmed in 2000 and his departure from the public eye has been a subject of speculation and intrigue for years.

Jake’s journey from a child star to stepping away from the spotlight was accompanied by various changes, both personal, emotional, and physical. Explore his transformation through the years.

Jake in 1996

In 1996, a young Jake was captured on the set of the film “Jingle All the Way,” directed by Brian Levant. Standing next to Arnold Schwarzenegger, the child actor was the epitome of childhood innocence and enthusiasm. Dressed in a warm yellow jacket, he shined with the gleeful smile of a boy living his dream, unaware of how his life was about to change.

Jake in 1998

Fast forward to 1998, Jake attended Nickelodeon’s “Big Help” in Los Angeles, a significant event focused on community service and helping others. His appearance at this event, just a year before the release of “Episode 1,” showed him slightly older yet still carrying the same youthful presence that would soon make him a household name.

Jake in 1999

In 1999, the world of “Star Wars” fans was abuzz with the release of “The Phantom Menace,” but for Jake, the child at the center of the storm, life was surprisingly ordinary, thanks to his mother’s efforts.

Lisa Lloyd was his shield against the torrent of criticism and backlash that the film received. She made it a point to keep her son grounded and wanted him to be more concerned with the joys of childhood — riding his bike and playing with friends — rather than the complexities of fame.

“He didn’t know. He didn’t care,” Lisa revealed during an interview, troubled by the focus on the downsides of fame, which Jake, in his youth, was thankfully oblivious to.

While Jake did experience bullying in high school related to his role in “Star Wars,” as he had mentioned in past interviews, Lisa emphasizes that this was not the reason he stepped away from the silver screen.

The reality was rooted much closer to home. The Lloyd family was navigating the difficult process of divorce, which can be much harder on a child than any kind of backlash from being in a famous franchise.

“Things were unsettled and kind of rough,” Lisa recalled. It was a period of uncertainty that saw Jake lose his appetite for auditions and the acting career that had thrown him into the limelight.

Jake in 2001

By 2001, at the Sundance Nike ACG Snowboard Clinic in Park City, Utah, Jake displayed a different side, more relaxed and engaged in the joys of adolescence. Clad in a snowboarding outfit, with the backdrop of a wintry landscape, he appeared to be just any other teenager enjoying the snow.

A family portrait taken that year, showcasing Jake’s mother Lisa and sister Madison Lloyd, immortalized a precious instance of unity and bonding.

Jake in 2004

The year 2004 saw Jake at the San Diego Convention Center, visibly older yet retaining subtle hints of his youthful visage. This appearance subtly indicated his gradual departure from the acting world, as he pursued a more conventional life away from the constant spotlight.

Jake in 2005

In 2005, Jake made a return to the “Star Wars” universe for the San Francisco World Premiere of “Star Wars: Episode III Revenge of the Sith.” Now a young adult, his features had matured, and his demeanor was more reserved as he faced the world that once recognized him as young Anakin.

Jake in 2007 & 2008

At the 2007 “Star Wars” Celebration IV, Jake’s appearance brought back memories of his past and how the “Star Wars” saga changed his life.

Jake’s life had taken an unforeseen turn by 2008. During his high school years, Lisa observed shifts in his personality, marking the start of a troubling period. He started questioning reality itself, leaving his mother at a loss for words and solutions.

This shift in his behavior signaled underlying issues that went beyond teenage angst. “He didn’t know if he was in this reality, or a different reality,” Lisa recounted with a tone of concern that only a mother could have. Her attempts to maintain normalcy, like insisting on homework completion, masked a deeper struggle that was just beginning to surface.

The complexity of Jake’s condition became apparent when a doctor suggested the possibility of bipolar disorder. Despite trials of various medications, no remedy seemed to alleviate his symptoms. Meanwhile, Jake’s aspirations rose, as he looked forward to furthering his education at Columbia College Chicago.

However, his schoolwork suffered because he often missed class and felt like he was being watched. He saw people with “black eyes” and thought he was talking to people on TV. These were signs that he was struggling with more than just school stress. His mom later realized these were early signs of a bigger problem.

By March of 2008, Jake had left college to return to Indiana. What followed was a series of therapeutic sessions and medical consultations that led to a diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia. The revelation plunged him into a deeper state of despair, with Lisa recalling how the diagnosis “totally threw him off into an even worse depression.”

Jake in 2011

In 2011, the diverse symptoms Jake exhibited fell under the umbrella of “schizophrenia,” a term used by the American Psychiatric Association. This disorder, affecting a considerable percentage of the world’s population, placed Jake’s struggles within a broader context.

But Jake’s struggle was uniquely his, made even more difficult by anosognosia, a condition that hindered his awareness of his own illness. Lisa described the painful challenge of persuading Jake to stick with treatment, especially because he was unable to recognize his condition.

Jake in 2015

The year 2015 revealed the extent of Jake’s troubles through multiple incidents reported by media outlets. An altercation with his mother, an arrest in South Carolina, and a ten-month incarceration highlighted the severity of his condition when left untreated.

Despite these overwhelming challenges, Lisa’s unwavering commitment to her son’s well-being shone through. She fought tirelessly for his release and proper medical attention, facing the all-too-common scenario of limited healthcare resources and facilities.

Lisa’s determination eventually led to Jake receiving treatment and relocating to California. Yet, the struggle was far from over. Ensuring Jake kept his medical appointments and took his medication was a constant battle, complicated by episodes of severe hallucinations that continued to disrupt their lives.

Jake in 2018

In 2018, the Lloyd family faced a devastating loss when Jake’s sister Madison, who had a small role in “The Phantom Menace.” She passed away in her sleep at the age of 26, and it deeply affected Jake.

Madison had been a positive influence on her brother, often encouraging him to maintain his health and adhere to his treatment. Her passing left a void that the former child star found difficult to articulate.

Jake in 2023

Fast forward to 2023, and Jake experienced what Lisa described as a “full-blown psychotic break,” an alarming incident that played out in public. On a seemingly ordinary day, a simple trip to McDonald’s took a turn for the worse, culminating in him stopping the car in the middle of traffic, leading to an intervention by the police.

Fortunately, this time, instead of the punitive response of incarceration, he received the medical attention needed and was admitted to a hospital.

How Is Jake Doing Now?

The subsequent months saw Jake transferred to an inpatient program at a mental health rehabilitation facility. Approximately 10 months into his 18-month program, he had made significant strides.

The treatments and therapy had begun to restore his sociability and engagement with the world, which his schizophrenia hadn’t allowed. Watching “Wonka” and enjoying the simple pleasure of movies, something that was previously unmanageable, now represented a return to some of the joys that once defined him.

Furthermore, during her interview, Lisa corrected the misconception about Jake’s relationship with “Star Wars.” Despite popular belief, the former child actor’s love for the franchise remains strong; he enjoys the latest installments, including the “Ahsoka” series.

She also firmly dismissed the idea that criticism of “The Phantom Menace” played a role in Jake’s acting retirement or his mental health challenges. She believes his schizophrenia is rooted in genetics, particularly because there’s history of the illness in his biological father’s family.

No one knows if Jake will ever act again, especially in a “Star Wars” movie. Yet, Lisa remembers how much he loved making “The Phantom Menace” and hopes he might act again someday if he keeps getting better. But for now, she just wants him to be happy and healthy.

As Jake navigates the complexities of his health, the support and good wishes from fans have been a heartening force. The sentiment from those who grew up alongside his movies reflects a shared journey of admiration and concern.

“I’m just very happy he’s been improving and alive with us,” one fan expressed, touching upon the tragic reality that many child stars face immense challenges as they transition into adulthood.

Another fan stated, “He deserves better. Glad he’s doing alright.” It’s a simple yet powerful acknowledgment of the difficult path Jake has walked, and a recognition of his current progress towards better health.

Perhaps most moving are the personal stories fans share about how Jake’s work influenced their own lives. One fan reminisced, “His work inspired me a lot when I was his age at the premiere and seen the movie, I who was already passionate about planes and fast things and also other Star Wars movies, when I seen his work I was truly amazed [sic].“

Jake Spotted Most Recently

These supportive fans may be glad to know that Jake seems well on his way to recovery. In October 2024, he was spotted in Los Angeles after a year out of the public eye due to his treatments.

During this recent outing, he was seen at a local gym, vaping, and recycling protein shake boxes, all while maintaining a low profile with a newly trimmed beard.

More of his supporters reacted emotionally to seeing the former child actor again after such a long time. One user shared their thoughts, “Hope he’s getting the help he needs.” Another expressed heartfelt wishes, “aww I hope he’s ok 🥺[sic].” Similarly, a third admirer wanted the best for him, adding, “He deserves peace.”

Jake’s subtle return to the public eye has sparked optimism among people who want to see him achieve better health and well-being. And in general, this actor’s story is one of resilience and hope. From a beloved child star to a man overcoming profound challenges, his journey reminds us of the importance of compassion and understanding.