Andorshowrunner Tony Gilroy has shared his thoughts on a popular romance fromRogue One: A Star Wars Story. Gilroy began hisStar Warscareer when he was brought in to help with rewrites and reshoots forRogue One, primarily for the third act. He then worked as the showrunner forAndor, which recently concluded after two critically acclaimed seasons. However, like any prequel,Andorwas bound to changeRogue Oneby introducing new elements to the story that challenged preconceived notions about the movie.
Speaking withVulture, Gilroy was asked about his approach to setting up the events ofRogue Oneand when he chose to ignore parts of the film. This transitioned into his thoughts on the potential romance between Jyn Erso and Cassian Andor inRogue One:
Having been deeply involved inRogue…I don’t think the relationship is inconsistent with the circumstances. Bix has been away for a year. And, you know, it’s a frat house there at the end, and who knows where she is. And she left him. You know, they’re beautiful, lively people. Whose handwouldn’tyou hold at the end? I think it turns into that, which is cooler and more interesting. Maybe I’ll be wrong when I watch it.
On the downside, I know there are people, whole fan-fiction collections, who’ve made a huge investment in that being one of the great love stories of all time.It’s not canon, but they’ve invested a lot of time in it.It’s not without concern that I undo that, but it can’t be a motivation for me building the show.
What Tony Gilroy’s Comments Mean About His Approach To Andor
He Was Aware Of Jyn & Cassian’s Relationship, But It Wasn’t His Biggest Concern
Gilroy’s thoughts on Jyn and Cassian’s relationship reflect his approach to craftingAndor’s story. He also notes in the interview that he did not go back to rewatchRogue One, trusting those who did when they assured himAndor’s story did not contradict the film.Gilroy prefers to keep his focus on the narrative at hand, not getting too bogged down by"homework-y backstory,“as the interviewer calls it.
This is why Gilroy put so much work into Cassian and Bix’s romance inAndorseason 2, which seems to diminish the possibility of any relationship between Cassian and Jyn. Gilroy does acknowledge they could have feelings for each other, especially when they’re about to die, but otherwise,“it’s not canon.“He is at least aware that many fans like the idea of Jyn and Cassian, even ifRogue Onenever fully explored the possibility.
Our Take On Gilroy’s Approach To Rogue One
He’s Correct That Focusing On The Story At Hand Is Most Important
While some fans may not like Gilroy’s view on Jyn and Cassian’s romance, I think he has the right mindset when it comes toStar Warsstorytelling.His analysis of their relationship accurately matches what is actually presented onscreen, and he acknowledges fan opinion, so he’s certainly not ignorant ofRogue One. Canon is important, but it’s nice to see storytellers who remember to keep their focus on the story they’re telling, not just what they’re setting up.
If Gilroy had held back on Cassian’s love life because of Jyn, then the wonderful relationship between him and Bix never would have happened. The same goes for the rest ofAndor, which still managed to tell its own brilliant story while perfectly leading intoRogue One: A Star Wars Story. Some context may be different now, but it’s clear that thisStar Warsproject was in good hands with Tony Gilroy.
Andor
Cast
Andor is a Star Wars prequel series set before the events of Rogue One, following Cassian Andor as he navigates a world of danger and deception. The series delves into his transformation into a pivotal figure in the struggle against the Galactic Empire.
