Andor Creator Reveals Disney’s $650 Million Budget: Streaming Is Dead
Tony Gilroy, the creator of the hit series “Andor,” recently made headlines at the ATX Television Festival by revealing that the total budget for the 24-episode “Star Wars” series was a whopping $650 million. The show, which aired over two seasons in 2022 and 2025, concluded last month to critical acclaim. “Andor” served as a prequel to the 2016 film “Rogue One,” focusing on the character of Cassian Andor, played by Diego Luna, as he navigates his journey from thief to rebel spy.
During the Q&A session, Gilroy shared insights into the production process, highlighting the challenges and freedoms that came with working on a project of this scale. He mentioned that while there were moments of pushback from the studio, he was ultimately able to push boundaries and tackle sensitive topics such as genocide and assault in the show’s second season without interference.
The budget reveal raised eyebrows in the industry, with the studio declining to comment on Gilroy’s statements. The production of “Andor” Season 2 faced setbacks due to the Hollywood strikes, adding approximately $20 million in shutdown costs to the budget. Despite these challenges, the show maintained high production values, with episodes costing an estimated $20 million after tax incentives.
Gilroy’s approach to storytelling in “Andor” was bold and unapologetic. He deliberately tested the boundaries by including provocative scenes and dialogue, such as starting the series with a scene set in a brothel to gauge the studio’s reaction. While some content had to be reined in, Gilroy was able to navigate the creative process effectively and deliver a compelling narrative that resonated with audiences.
The show’s cast also reflected on the impact of the storytelling choices. Adria Arjona, who played Binx in the series, discussed the powerful portrayal of a character confronting an attempted sexual assault in Season 2. The scene was a poignant moment that highlighted the abuse of power and vulnerability, showcasing the character’s strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
Despite the challenges and controversies, “Andor” received praise for its bold storytelling, compelling characters, and high production values. Both seasons of the series are now available for streaming on Disney+, offering fans a deeper dive into the “Star Wars” universe. As the show continues to captivate audiences, it stands as a testament to the creative vision and dedication of the team behind it.
