Casting 'Star Wars' - 12 Actors who Auditioned for Anakin Before Hayden Christensen was Cast (an Oscar-Winner Wasn't Interested)

The Star Wars prequel movies were some of the hottest blockbusters in Hollywood when they premiered, and Anakin Skywalker was a very popular role for young actors.

Booking the part launched Hayden Christensen onto the map.

He famously made his debut in the 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 before he was cast.

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 admitted that he never expected to 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.

Hayden recently reunited with one of his Star Wars castmates, which made us decide to round up all of the stars who were up for his part.

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