Lisa Lloyd shares her son’s battle with mental illness and reflects on his journey since starring in ‘The Phantom Menace’

In a candid interview with Scripps News, Lisa Lloyd, the mother of Jake Lloyd—best known for his role as Anakin Skywalker in ‘The Phantom Menace’—revealed the harrowing mental health challenges her son has faced over the years.

Jake Lloyd, now celebrating his 35th birthday alongside the 25th anniversary of ‘The Phantom Menace,’ has encountered a tumultuous journey marked by mental illness. Lisa disclosed that Jake’s troubles began during high school, with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. Despite attempts at medication, his condition worsened, culminating in a diagnosis of schizophrenia in 2008.

Lisa recounted how Jake’s struggles were exacerbated by anosognosia—a neurological condition causing denial of one’s symptoms—resulting in non-compliance with treatment and self-medication through illicit substances.

In 2015, Jake’s mental health crisis escalated when he led police on a car chase while off his medication, leading to a 10-month incarceration. Despite Lisa’s efforts to secure psychiatric care, Jake’s condition continued to deteriorate.

Tragedy struck again in 2018 with the loss of Jake’s younger sister, Madison, intensifying his struggles. A psychotic breakdown in 2023 prompted hospitalization and subsequent rehabilitation.

Contrary to speculation linking Jake’s mental health issues to his ‘Star Wars’ fame, Lisa attributed his condition to genetic predisposition, with a family history of schizophrenia. She emphasized shielding Jake from negative discourse surrounding his performance in ‘The Phantom Menace,’ asserting that his love for ‘Star Wars’ remains unabated.

Despite the challenges, Lisa remains optimistic about Jake’s progress, noting his improved socialization and enthusiasm for familial gatherings.