Rogue One: A Star Wars Story was a defining and unique movie for Lucasfilm as they began to venture into stand-alone movie territory. The film follows the events of the Galactic Empire’s earlier years and teases a glimpse of what the galaxy was like prior to the Original Trilogy. The rise of the Rebel Alliance binds those who are in favor of restoring the Galactic Republic while hunting down oppressive Imperial forces. Finding a weakness in the Death Star plans, the Rebellion is determined to dismantle the weapon before it can bring harm to the galaxy. Tensions between the Rebellion and the Empire rise at an exponential rate as morals, ethics, and values are pitted against one another, leaving the fate of the cosmos in question. The film was praised for its incredibly emotional conclusion, breathtaking cinematic effects, and its plot rich with altruism. Director James Gunn most recently expressed Rogue One being the "most underrated Star Wars anything."
Much like past, present, and future Star Wars media, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story introduced new characters that would leave lasting impressions on the franchise. Jyn Erso (Felicity Jones) and Imperial security droid K-2SO joined series newcomer Cassian Andor (Diego Luna) as they fought to save the remains of their humanity. The trio banded together and resembled a feeling of hope for those who accompanied them on their journey. Their selflessness and dedication to returning goodwill across the stars allowed the trio to become memorable, even despite their tragic end. This summer, the upcoming Andor series on Disney+ will take viewers five years before the events of Rogue One. The recently released trailer promises Luna's return to the titular character and, what's more, an exciting dive into his character's journey towards becoming a Rebel. Ahead of the series' release, here's a refresher on who Cassian Andor is and where he fits into the larger Star Wars tapestry.
What was Cassian Andor Like?
Cassian Jeron Andor resided on the Outer Rim planet Fest. A human man, little is known about Cassian before his appearance in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. Bits of dialogue imply that Cassian had spent his youth in association with the Rebellion and regarded them as a form of family. His loyalty remains unwavering if it was able to support his beliefs. Fairly attractive in his physical appearance, Cassian used his charm to appeal to those who did not suspect him to be a Rebel spy. His commitment to ensuring that the right thing, even if it was morally gray, spoke to the construction of his ethical character. Cassian's soft-spoken nature and low-key state of being were a reminder that everything that was said or done by him was with purpose. A war-weary officer, his knowledge of combat prepared him to tackle any threat that crossed his path. At one point in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, Cassian is referred to as "one of the most capable agents within Rebel Intelligence" by General Draven. Draven continued on to mention that Cassian "was capable of analyzing intelligence and acting on that intelligence without the need to contact superiors."
Restoration of the Republic
Prior to his time as a captain in the Alliance to Restore the Republic, Cassian was held captive in an insurrectionist's cell during the events of the Clone Wars. He spent his entire life pursuing his mission to battle the Galactic Empire, previously noting that he'd "been in this fight since [he] was six years old!" He was keen to follow the activity of the Empire as they moved forward with their objective to gain control across the universe. Cassian didn't always refer to himself as Cassian throughout the extent of his career as a Rebel spy and bore a collection of aliases when undergoing each mission. He and K-2SO moved from planet to planet in order to continue to dismantle Imperial forces. Their adventures saw them raiding Imperial freighters and swapping new information with networked connections within the Rebel Alliance.
Jyn accompanied the pair on their expedition to uphold the duty of the Rebel Alliance. Cassian and his duo of companions were responsible for gathering other Rebels that would fight on Scarif, despite the Alliance's apprehension to do so. Cassian was viewed as a leader in the Rebellion, and his hope for a future free from Imperial rule was a motivation for his seeking abolition. It was admitted that if he abandoned the plan to fight, he would be strapped with regret for the rest of his life. Cassian assumed the role of a commander and orchestrated how they would breach the Empire for the sake of the Republic. To honor the legacy of Cassian's devotion, Luke Skywalker bestowed the name of Rogue Squadron onto a new starfighter armada.
Cassian Andor Returns
Lucasfilm and the Walt Disney Company have been determined to interlude their productions of cinematic features by reserving space on Disney+ for Star Wars spinoffs and television series. The manufacturing of original Disney+ content was initiated by the success of The Mandalorian, which cued additional exclusive content to be released on the streaming platform. Andor will serve as a prequel series to Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and will return Luna to the titular role. Cassian's self-sacrifice and death at the end of the Star Wars solo film concluded the character's story, yet the film shared only a snippet of his life prior to meeting Jyn. Andor is expected to share the events of Cassian's time as a member of the Rebel Alliance and his upbringing in military states. Luna granted more insight as to what may shape the path of Andor as the series progresses from Season One to Season Two. “It’s the journey of a migrant,” the actor said to Vanity Fair, “That feeling of having to move is behind this story, very profoundly and very strong. That shapes you as a person. It defines you in many ways, and what you are willing to do.”
Showrunner Tony Gilroy contributes to Luna's statement. "This guy gave his life for the galaxy, right? I mean, he consciously, soberly, without vanity or recognition, sacrificed himself. Who does that?" In the same interview, Gilroy elaborates on what Andor has in mind for its first season. “That’s what this first season is about. It’s about him being really revolution-averse and cynical, and lost, and kind of a mess... His adopted home will become the base of our whole first season, and we watch that place become radicalized. Then we see another planet that’s completely taken apart in a colonial kind of way. The Empire is expanding rapidly. They’re wiping out anybody who’s in their way."
Andor was renewed for a second season before its first season was given a chance to meet curious audiences, indicating that there is still more of Cassian's story to be told that cannot be confined to a singular limited run. Star Wars: Andor lands on Disney+ on August 31, 2022 and, per Deadline, will feature 12 episodes.