Image Source: Parade Magazine
Hayden Christensen is offering a rare glimpse into his relationship with his 11-year-old daughter, Briar Rose. The actor recently opened up about the simple routines and shared entertainment that help him stay connected with his only child.
Christensen discussed fatherhood during an interview with MTV UK at the 2026 D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event on Friday, August 14. While appearing on the red carpet, the Star Wars actor explained that he enjoys spending time with Briar regardless of what they are doing together.
Hayden Christensen Reveals His Special Bond With Briar Rose
“I have a young daughter, and I love watching shows with her,” Christensen said. He added that Briar’s current favorites include Liv and Maddie and Henry Danger, two family-friendly series that have become part of their shared viewing routine.
For the actor, watching television with his daughter is more than a casual pastime. It gives the father and daughter an opportunity to relax, laugh and enjoy time together away from the spotlight. Christensen has generally kept details about Briar’s life private, making his comments particularly meaningful for fans.
When Briar is not around, Christensen said he has been watching something aimed at an older audience. He praised The Agency, the Showtime thriller starring Michael Fassbender, calling the series “really good.”
A Powerful Star Wars Connection
Christensen’s family update came as Disney confirmed exciting news about his professional future. The actor is set to appear in the second season of Ahsoka, reprising his iconic role as Anakin Skywalker in Force ghost form.
Christensen first portrayed Anakin in the Star Wars prequel trilogy, later showing the character’s transformation into Darth Vader. His return to the galaxy far, far away has been warmly received by longtime fans, particularly after his appearances in projects including Obi-Wan Kenobi and the first season of Ahsoka.
Interestingly, Briar has not yet watched the Star Wars films in which her father plays one of the franchise’s most recognizable characters. Rachel Bilson, Briar’s mother, previously joked that her daughter was not fully aware of her father’s villainous screen history.
“She’s not aware that her dad is one of the biggest villains of all time,” Bilson said in a 2020 interview. She also humorously wondered how Briar might react when classmates discovered that her father played Darth Vader.
By 2022, however, Briar had learned more about Christensen’s Star Wars legacy. During an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, the actor revealed that his daughter had become his “first lightsaber training partner” while he prepared for Obi-Wan Kenobi.
Although Briar knew that her father was Darth Vader, Christensen said she had not seen him fully suited as the character. He explained that he was waiting for the right time before showing her the prequel films, noting that some scenes might need to be skipped.
Rachel Bilson and Hayden Christensen’s Cooperative Coparenting
Christensen and Bilson began dating in 2007 and welcomed Briar in October 2014. The couple split in 2017 but have continued working toward a supportive coparenting arrangement.
Bilson has previously described their family dynamic as unusual but peaceful. During a January appearance on the “Let’s Be Honest” podcast, she said the former couple still does many activities together and has created its own approach to raising Briar.
“We have been able to keep it very copacetic and nice for” Briar, Bilson said. She emphasized the importance of communication and compromise when navigating life after a breakup, especially when children are involved.
Bilson also noted that she remains close to Christensen’s family. Nearly two decades after their relationship began, she described the past as feeling like “water under the bridge,” suggesting that the former couple has found a comfortable and respectful way to move forward.
Why Christensen’s Family Update Matters
While celebrity parents often share carefully curated glimpses of family life, Christensen’s comments focused on ordinary moments: watching television, training with a lightsaber and finding age-appropriate ways to introduce Briar to his work.
- Christensen shares Briar Rose with actress Rachel Bilson.
- Briar’s favorite shows currently include Liv and Maddie and Henry Danger.
- Christensen enjoys watching The Agency when he is on his own.
- Disney confirmed his return as Anakin Skywalker in season 2 of Ahsoka.
- Briar has helped her father practice lightsaber movements for a Star Wars project.
The actor’s latest remarks also highlight how he separates his blockbuster career from his role as a dad. To Briar, he is not only Anakin Skywalker or Darth Vader; he is also the parent who watches her favorite shows and makes time for their shared interests.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is Hayden Christensen’s daughter?
Briar Rose is 11 years old. She is the daughter of Hayden Christensen and Rachel Bilson.
What shows does Briar Rose enjoy watching?
According to Christensen, Briar currently enjoys Liv and Maddie and Henry Danger.
Has Briar Rose watched the Star Wars movies?
Christensen has said that Briar knows he played Darth Vader but has not yet watched the Star Wars films featuring him in the role.
Will Hayden Christensen appear in Ahsoka season 2?
Yes. Disney confirmed that Christensen will return as Force ghost Anakin Skywalker in the second season of Ahsoka.
Are Rachel Bilson and Hayden Christensen still coparenting?
Yes. The former couple has continued to coparent Briar and has described their relationship as cooperative and peaceful.
