I actually wrote this
a few years ago when reading about the release of
E.K. Johnston’s new Ahsoka book. It reminded me of the times I’ve met actress
Ashley Eckstein. You might remember Ashley from when she did an
episode of Drake and Josh or even her run on That's So Raven. But to me and
countless other Star Wars fans she will forever be Ahsoka Tano, the Togruta Padawan of Anikan Skywalker in the
animated series Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Rebels, & Forces of Destiny.
The first time my wife and I met her she was great. It was 2008 I believe. She
was really approachable and listened to every word of her fans. Just the nicest
anyone could ever be. Not to mention her husband David was there too. I was
hoping he would have been because I was a fan of his. So I brought a baseball
in hopes that he was going to be. Even though I was a huge Texas Rangers fan,
David was one of my favorite non Rangers players. When we walked up to her
table we chatted, took photos, etc. David even signed my ball. (To which I
still have to this day.) Just an
all-around great experience.
Fast forward a couple years later. She and David came back for another show of the same
promoter. My wife couldn’t make it this time. The promoters made this a kind of
“The Clone Wars” reunion. Actually I believe nine of the main cast was there. A Clone Wars fans dream. When you went into the room, they had all the actors (sans Wood & Acord) with their tables lined up against the walls next to each other. The first was the brilliant Tom Kane. Next to Tom was the Eckstein family. As I got to
her table she gave me a weird look and said “I know you”. Before I could
even say anything she snapped her fingers and said “Riley!!” Holy crap I
thought. Ahsoka my butt, this lady is Yoda. She proceeded to ask how I was
doing and asked if my wife was there as well. Like it’s only been a couple weeks. Lol
But it had been a couple years. Mind was just blown away blown. Memory like a
steel trap. When I think of all the awesome people I’ve met over the years.
Ashley and David Eckstein will always be in the top of the list. May the force be
forever with you both.
