Former child actor Jake Lloyd, known for his role as Anakin Skywalker in 'Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace,' has been receiving treatment at a mental health facility for the past 10 months, as revealed by his mother. The decision for Jake to enter an inpatient program came after he experienced a psychotic break in March 2023.
According to his mother, Lisa Lloyd, the incident occurred while she was driving Jake home from a McDonald's run. Jake expressed a desire to turn off the car, which led to a disruptive situation in the middle of traffic lanes, prompting other drivers to contact emergency services. Lisa described Jake's communication with the police as nonsensical, indicating a state of confusion and disorientation.
Diagnosed with schizophrenia in 2008, Jake's mental health struggles became more pronounced during his high school years and exacerbated during his college experience. Lisa mentioned that Jake initially concealed his auditory hallucinations, which later contributed to a deepening sense of depression upon receiving his schizophrenia diagnosis.
Despite his diagnosis, Jake often resisted taking his prescribed medication, believing he did not require treatment. The situation reached a critical point in June 2015 when Jake was involved in a police pursuit across multiple counties, culminating in a car crash and subsequent arrest. Following a 10-month incarceration, Jake sought psychiatric assistance.
Currently, Jake, who recently turned 35, is undergoing treatment and adhering to his medication regimen, leading to positive changes in his behavior. Lisa noted that Jake is displaying signs of improvement, reconnecting with his social environment and expressing a renewed interest in the 'Star Wars' franchise, particularly enjoying the series 'Ahsoka' on Disney+.
Despite misconceptions about his feelings towards 'Star Wars,' Lisa emphasized that Jake harbors a genuine affection for the franchise. She reassured supporters that Jake is in a better mental state now and expressed a desire for his continued happiness and well-being.
