Andor Writer Sounds Alarm on Rising Fascism in Star Wars Series

Andor Writer Dan Gilroy Sounds the Alarm on Fascism with 'Welcome to the Rebellion' In a powerful op-ed published yesterday in Deadline, Dan Gilroy, writer of Disney's Star Wars series Andor, has issued a wake-up call to creatives and audiences alike, drawing parallels between the show's themes of fascism and the current cultural landscape. Gilroy, brother of Andor creator Tony Gilroy, won an Emmy for Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series for season two's ninth episode, "Welcome to the Rebellion," which featured Mon Mothma's impassioned speech condemning genocide and monstrous leaders. The episode's timely commentary on the dangers of fascism has taken on new significance in light of recent events. The suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Live! after host Jimmy Kimmel made comments about the death of Charlie Kirk sparked a wave of outrage, with creatives and subscribers calling for a boycott of Disney, ABC's parent company. Gilroy's op-ed echoes the sentiments expressed by many in the industry, highlighting the importance of holding power accountable. "We spent six years thinking about a fascist takeover of a galaxy far, far away," Gilroy wrote. "It's unfortunate that we didn't have to think as hard about it happening here on Earth." Gilroy's words are a stark reminder of the show's relevance and impact. Andor has been praised for its nuanced portrayal of the Star Wars universe, tackling complex themes such as rebellion, resistance, and the dangers of unchecked power. The show's creator, Tony Gilroy, has spoken about the unfortunate relevance of the series' storylines in the wake of recent events. "We were trying to tell a story that was relevant to our time," he said in an interview earlier this year. "I think we succeeded." Gilroy's op-ed is just the latest example of the show's influence extending beyond the screen. Andor has sparked conversations about politics, power, and social justice, cementing its place as one of the most thought-provoking series on television. As the industry grapples with the implications of Gilroy's words, it remains to be seen how this will impact the future of Disney and ABC. One thing is certain: Andor has left an indelible mark on popular culture, serving as a powerful reminder of the importance of holding power accountable. Background: Andor premiered in 2022 to critical acclaim, with many praising its nuanced portrayal of the Star Wars universe. The show's second season was released earlier this year, featuring several episodes that tackled complex themes such as fascism and resistance. Additional Perspectives: Industry insiders are weighing in on Gilroy's op-ed, with some expressing support for his sentiments. "Dan's piece is a powerful reminder of the importance of using our platforms to speak truth to power," said one industry insider. Others have criticized the op-ed, arguing that it is too focused on politics and not enough on storytelling. Current Status: The fallout from Gilroy's op-ed continues to unfold, with many in the industry calling for greater accountability from Disney and ABC. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how this will impact the future of Andor and other Disney productions. *Reporting by Gizmodo.*