Andor was bound to change Rogue One by introducing new elements to the story that challenged preconceived notions about the movie.
Speaking with Vulture, Gilroy was asked about his approach to setting up the events of Rogue One and when he chose to ignore parts of the film. This transitioned into his thoughts on the potential romance between Jyn Erso and Cassian Andor in Rogue One:
Having been deeply involved in Rogue … 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 hand wouldn’t you 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 crafting Andor's story. He also notes in the interview that he did not go back to rewatch Rogue One, trusting those who did when they assured him Andor'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.
Andor Showrunner Tells Rogue One Fans To "Reorient Their Thinking" Amidst This Major Fandom Discourse (Is He Right?)
A fandom argument about Rogue One and Andor has been addressed by Tony Gilroy, with the filmmaker insisting people need to “reorient their thinking.”
This is why Gilroy put so much work into Cassian and Bix's romance in Andor season 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 if Rogue One never 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 to Star Wars storytelling. His analysis of their relationship accurately matches what is actually presented onscreen, and he acknowledges fan opinion, so he's certainly not ignorant of Rogue One. Canon is important, but it's nice to see storytellers who 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 of Andor, which still managed to tell its own brilliant story while perfectly leading into Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. Some context may be different now, but it's clear that this Star Wars project was in good hands with Tony Gilroy.
Source: Vulture
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Andor
8/10- Release Date
- 2022 - 2025-00-00
- Network
- Disney+
- Showrunner
- Tony Gilroy
Cast
Cassian Andor
Luthen Rael
WHERE TO WATCH
StreamingAndor 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.
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Rogue One: A Star Wars Story
8/10- Release Date
- December 16, 2016
- Runtime
- 133 Minutes
- Director
- Gareth Edwards
Cast
Felicity JonesJyn Erso-
Captain Cassian Andor
WHERE TO WATCH
StreamingRENTBUYRogue One: A Star Wars Story is a standalone film set in the Star Wars universe, where a group of resistance fighters, led by Jyn Erso, embarks on a mission to steal the Death Star plans. This pivotal event sets the stage for the iconic saga to follow.
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