Andor is arguably the best Star Wars show produced under Disney, and the lion’s share for its success goes to creator Tony Gilroy. The series follows the story of Cassian Andor as he goes through several experiences that lead him to become a major part of the Rebellion.
During an interview, Gilroy spoke about pushing the envelope with the series, especially regarding what could and could not be done under Disney. At the same time, Gilroy also spoke about introducing the first same-sex couple in the Star Wars universe, setting a record in the process. Here is what Gilroy had to say about the challenges of testing Disney’s limits.
Tony Gilroy Talked Testing Disney’s Star Wars Limits With Andor
After helping with the reshoots for Rogue One, Tony Gilroy returned to the Star Wars universe with Andor. The spy-thriller series, which is expected to return for a second season, tells the backstory of Cassian Andor, played by Diego Luna.
During an interview with Variety, Gilroy spoke about pushing the limits of Star Wars, especially while working under Disney, known for their family-friendly content.
Citing the example of the show’s opening scene, which takes place in a brothel, Gilroy revealed he wanted to challenge the franchise’s limits.
I wrote that as a challenge. I wrote the first three episodes before we hit the writers’ room.
Gilroy made the above statement, explaining how his vision for the series and its tone was already set during the first three episodes.
The writer-producer added that while he wasn’t sure whether the series would move beyond the developmental stage, he took all the risks he could while writing the series, clearly expressing what he wanted to do with it. Hence, it is evident Gilroy took on the challenge of subverting expectations of a Disney Star Wars series.
Tony Gilroy Revealed How He Created the First Same-S-x Couple in Star Wars Without Any Controversy
During the same interview, Gilroy also spoke about setting the record for LGBTQ+ representation in the franchise, by introducing the first same-s-x couple in the form of Vel and Cinta.
The showrunner revealed how he added a same-sex relationship to the story without any controversy. He said:
Our whole attitude is it’s just another relationship.
Gilroy added that there was surprisingly no pushback from Disney over the inclusion of a same-sex couple in the series. The creator also noted how the relationship between Vel and Cinta was one of the least complicated ones in the show.
Gilroy also stated that there were limitations when it came to depicting the same-s-x relationship. However, he added that the same limitations were also placed on other aspects of the show, such as violence. Nonetheless, Gilroy was glad he was able to pull off most things he planned to include in the series.
Andor is streaming on Disney+.
