Ivanna Sakhno Speaks On Shin’s Search For Understanding In ‘Ahsoka’, Physical Training, and Ray Stevenson’s Mentorship
Ahsoka actress Ivanna Sakhno, who portrays Shin Hati on the show, spoke with Dagobah Dispatch about her character’s search for truth, the physical preparation required for the role, and the loss of co-star Ray Stevenson. Entertainment Weekly‘s Star Wars-themed podcast interview was conducted before the SAG-AFTRA strike and before the premiere of the show. Now, four episodes into the series, Sakhno’s comments suggest fans may see more of her character discovering who she is in future episodes.
When asked to describe her character in the interview, Sakhno provided an interesting response that points to the character’s inquisitive, inexperienced nature, but also her desire to find herself. It suggests Shin will learn more about herself in future episodes:
“She’s very calculated and, at times, impatient. She is a seeker. She is only in the beginning of finding her own voice … that’s really all I can say… [Laughs]
Throughout getting to discover her, she has taught me a lot about understanding the intensity within somebody. I really think there might be quite a few people who may resonate with some sides of her and her desire to understand her surroundings and understand something that is true to her nature.”
Ivanna Sakhno was also asked about the physicality required for the role, and went on to credit how the physical training she and the cast went through helped her get into character mentally as well:
“I got to work with our incredible stunt coordinator Ming Qiu. Just like many of the actors on the show, we had to undergo months of preparation and training with Ming and the rest of the stunt team. And they were great leaders. They were able to, not only prepare us physically, but also mentally.
I really hope it pays off on screen because we put a lot of effort and time into that aspect of the show.”
When asked about the late Ray Stevenson, who portrays her on-screen master, the Ukrainian-born actress couldn’t properly express with words how much the relationship the two had developed over the months-long Ahsoka shoot had impacted her (Stevenson passed away on May 22, three months before the series premiere):
“We were inseparable … His impact on my life is immeasurable. And so is the ache of losing him. I miss him terribly. I carry the light that was within him. I think of him every day. I only hope to honor him and all that he has given me. I’m so grateful this show has given me the opportunity to know him … Words don’t do it justice. He really is a gift.”
Ahsoka is now at its halfway point, there are still many mysteries to uncover, such as the backstory behind Baylan and Shin. While both are described as Dark Jedi, with Baylan himself suggesting he knew Anakin Skywalker, it remains to be seen what exactly are their end goals and why they are seeking out Thrawn in the first place.
With four more episodes to go, more of Shin and Baylan’s backgrounds will likely be revealed. Part Five of Ahsoka will be premiering on Tuesday, September 12, at 6 pm PT and will be directed by Dave Filoni. It will be screened in select theaters in the US and London. Feel free to also check out my review of “Fallen Jedi,” the series’ most recent episode.
Born and raised in Hawaii, Jay Goodearl runs the YouTube Gaming channel “Good Games, Dude” His channel aims to open up video games to beginners and immediate players and help them understand what makes games the art form that it is.
