
Why Andor's Creator Says Jyn Erso's Cameo Would Have Diminished the Story
2025-05-19
Author: Sophie
In a galaxy filled with familiar faces, the Disney+ series Andor brought back several key characters from Rogue One—most notably Mon Mothma, Saw Gerrera, and Orson Krennic. But as viewers speculated about Jyn Erso’s potential appearance, creator Tony Gilroy had some strong opinions on the matter.
Despite the myriad of cameos that dotted the series, including a pivotal role for Bail Organa—who was recast from Jimmy Smits to Benjamin Bratt—Gilroy firmly decided against featuring Jyn Erso, played by Felicity Jones. Speculation ran rampant among fans about whether Cassian Andor's partner in rebellion would show up before the series concluded.
Gilroy revealed to Entertainment Weekly that he was repeatedly asked about Jyn's potential appearance. However, he stated unequivocally, "No," and explained that each episode was crafted with a specific energy in mind. Episode 12, in particular, was designed to stand out and deliver a unique narrative experience.
The show's creator sifted through several ideas before concluding that Jyn’s cameo would feel forced. He noted, "It would’ve been lame to bring Jyn back just for a cameo. That would've been really disrespectful in a way. I’d rather honor Rogue One and keep the storytelling authentic." While other connections to Rogue One were explored, like a storyline involving informant Tivic, Gilroy preferred to maintain the integrity of the original story rather than rely on nostalgia.
As fans continue to debate the direction of Andor, it’s clear that Gilroy prioritized a coherent and respectful narrative over simply inserting beloved characters. In doing so, he has challenged the audience to appreciate the depth and complexity of storytelling, rather than just nostalgic signals.