It's quite rare—almost unheard of—to know precisely how a TV show will end before it even begins. Yet, the critically acclaimed series Andor, created by showrunner Tony Gilroy, concluded exactly as he envisioned back in 2022. The finale leads up to the first scene featuring Rebel spy Cassian Andor (played by Diego Luna) in the 2016 film Rogue One. The series wraps up as Cassian prepares to meet a source at the Ring of Kafrene, where he ultimately gains crucial intel about the Death Star.
While the ending of Andor was predetermined, many other elements remained shrouded in mystery until the later episodes. The fates of pivotal characters like Dedra (Denise Gough), Bix (Adria Arjona), and Syril (Kyle Soller) kept audiences on the edge of their seats. Interestingly, some notable characters from the first season, such as Kino Loy and Cassian’s missing sister Kerri, did not return for the finale.
In the finale, the line “What a bitter ending” resonates deeply, especially with the revelation that Bix was pregnant and that Cassian had a son he was unaware of. This twist adds a layer of tragedy to Cassian’s fate. Gilroy explains, “I think it makes his sacrifice that much more bitter.” The series aims to balance this heaviness with a hopeful note, as encapsulated in the phrase “Rebellions are built on hope.” This message is not just a catchy slogan; it reflects a genuine sentiment that many viewers need to see.
When asked whether Bix would have left Cassian to continue fighting if she hadn’t been pregnant, Gilroy admits, “I don’t know the answer to that.” However, he emphasizes that Bix’s pregnancy plays a crucial role in her decision to leave, adding complexity to their relationship. This narrative choice highlights the intricate dynamics within Andor and its characters.
Another intriguing character is Syril, whose journey raises questions about his potential shift towards the Rebellion. Gilroy describes Syril as a romantic and a fantasist with a rich inner life. The chaos unleashed during the massacre on Ghorman profoundly affects him, showcasing the character's struggle and development. “I feel for all these characters, but I’m really sympathetic towards Syril,” Gilroy shares, indicating that Syril’s internal conflict is a significant theme in the series.
Regarding Dedra, Gilroy reveals that her trajectory was always headed for a downfall. Given the impending collapse of the ISB (Imperial Security Bureau), her fate was sealed. “If that was the CIA or any intelligence bureau, with those kind of breaches, it would be a cleaning of house,” he explains. Dedra’s presence on Narkina 3 adds a layer of dramatic irony that the audience can appreciate.
Fans of Kino Loy, portrayed by Andy Serkis, were left wondering about his fate. “What am I going to do that’s going to be better than what we did?” Gilroy reflects on Kino’s impactful exit, emphasizing that revisiting him might dilute his powerful narrative moment in the series. Similarly, Cassian’s missing sister remains an absent yet essential part of his character development. Gilroy believes that her absence serves a more significant purpose in Cassian's journey.
As for Mon Mothma's daughter, Gilroy humorously suggests that while she might live a comfortable life on Chandrila, her choices could be more traditional than her parents'. This subtle commentary adds depth to the series' exploration of generational conflicts.
One of the standout moments in the finale is the off-camera suicide of an ISB commander, which underscores the series' commitment to visual storytelling. Gilroy praises actor Michael Jenn’s performance, showcasing the series' ability to evoke powerful emotions without explicit visuals. Additionally, fans have expressed curiosity about the absence of K-2SO, a character known for his humor and charm. Gilroy explains that limitations in the story required a careful approach to K-2SO’s introduction, ensuring that when he appears, it feels monumental.
As the series concludes, Gilroy hopes that Andor will change the way viewers perceive Rogue One. He admits that after watching the screeners, he felt compelled to re-watch the film. “You have this feeling of dread for Cassian from the moment he rolls into it,” he notes, suggesting that the narrative threads between the two stories create a richer viewing experience.
In summary, Andor has successfully woven intricate character arcs and themes of hope and sacrifice into its narrative, leaving fans eager to revisit the universe of Rogue One with fresh perspectives and insights.
