Tony Gilroy dismisses rumors of tension with Dave Filoni, confirming their positive, professional relationship despite limited interactions.
- March 18, 2026
AceShowbiz - Andor creator Tony Gilroy has addressed and dismissed rumors of discord between himself and Dave Filoni, the newly appointed Lucasfilm chief and creative force behind The Mandalorian. Despite speculation of behind-the-scenes tension, Gilroy emphasized that his relationship with Filoni remains positive and professional.
Recent reports suggested that Filoni may have harbored some dissatisfaction with the Andor series. However, Gilroy clarified in a new interview that such claims are unfounded. He explained that he and Filoni have only met a handful of times and shared approximately six conversations over the past decade, underscoring a cordial, if infrequent, connection. Gilroy stated, "We've only met a couple times, and we've only had a half-a-dozen conversations over the last ten years. Seriously. I saw Jon Favreau at a scoring session once. We've always gotten along with those guys, and we've never had anything but high praise for everything that they've done."
Gilroy further acknowledged the influence Filoni and Jon Favreau have had on the existence of Andor, expressing gratitude for the groundwork laid by their pioneering Star Wars series. He noted, "We only have our show because of them, and we've always said that was true. There's no Andor without The Mandalorian. It would not exist. So it has never been anything but cordial and pleasant, ever, ever, ever, ever. I don't know anything that you don't know. I really don't."
The Andor series serves as a prequel to the 2016 film Rogue One and follows the journey of Cassian Andor, portrayed by Diego Luna. The storyline traces Cassian’s transformation from a reluctant thief to a committed Rebel Alliance operative. Recruited by Luthen Rael, played by Stellan Skarsgård, Cassian becomes deeply involved in resisting the oppressive Galactic Empire.
The series also explores the darker, bureaucratic elements of the Empire through characters like Syril Karn, an obsessive Imperial officer who views Cassian as his nemesis, and Dedra Meero, an Imperial bureaucrat whose ambitions tie into the construction of the Death Star. Additionally, the emotional cost of rebellion is highlighted through Cassian’s relationship with Bix Caleen, played by Adria Arjona, who represents a personal sacrifice amidst the wider conflict.
Gilroy drew parallels between the depiction of the Empire’s fascist regime in Andor and the troubling anti-democratic tendencies observed in contemporary political climates, particularly referencing the United States. He described the Empire’s authoritarianism as akin to a "Fascism for Dummies," emphasizing the show’s thematic intent to reflect real-world dangers of unchecked power.
Looking ahead, Gilroy revealed his next project, the film Behemoth!, which he will write and direct. The movie is set to star Pedro Pascal, widely known as the lead of The Mandalorian. This collaboration further ties Gilroy’s creative work to the expanding Star Wars universe.
Andor is currently available for streaming on Disney+, continuing to draw praise for its mature storytelling and complex characters. Fans and critics alike anticipate how the series will continue to deepen the lore of the Star Wars galaxy.
The rumors of a feud between the creative minds behind two of Star Wars’ most acclaimed recent projects appear to be just that—rumors. As Gilroy’s comments confirm, the relationship between the Andor creators and Lucasfilm leadership remains respectful and appreciative, underscoring a shared commitment to enriching this beloved franchise.