Andor, the critically acclaimed prequel series to Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, became a success, thanks to its gripping writing and well-developed characters. Season one ran from September 23 to November 23, 2022, and the second and final season ran from April 22 to May 13, 2025.
The show follows Cassian Andor, played by Diego Luna, and chronicles his evolution from a reluctant thief to a devoted rebel. In Season 1, Andy Serkis played Kino Loy, a key figure who helped the prisoners escape the Narkina 5 prison. With his fate uncertain, Kino was not confirmed to be dead or alive. Serkis did not return in season two, and recently shared with Collider that he has no regrets about that.
Andy Serkis about not returning for Andor season two
Set five years before Rogue One, Andor explores the life of Cassian Andor before he joins the Rebellion, and how he joins it. The series explores the Empire's reach and how ordinary people find themselves rising against its rule. Across two seasons, creator Tony Gilroy and his team delivered a grounded, emotional story that gave new depth to the Star Wars universe.
Andy Serkis appeared in three episodes of season one as Kino Loy, a prisoner who manages a work floor on Narkina 5. At first, Kino follows the rules, hoping for release. But when the truth about the prison’s endless sentences is revealed, he joins Cassian in leading a dramatic prison break. His final scene, where he admits he can't swim, left fans heartbroken and wondering about his fate.
Although Kino’s story felt unfinished to many viewers, Serkis didn’t return for season two. In an interview with Collider, the actor explained why he feels his story arc didn’t need more. When asked if he was sad to miss out on season two, Serkis said:
"I ultimately think it's best for the character. It was such a great arc, and it had a very, very definite and heroic conclusion. I think, in many ways, to go back would be difficult because it has left a mark. I was so surprised at how emotionally effective that character was, actually, and so I think it's way, way better that we leave him in Narkina 5, on his own."
Serkis also confirmed he hasn’t had time to watch the latest season yet, but has heard great things about it. He said:
“I haven’t had the chance. I’ve heard it’s incredible.”
Season 2 of the show has earned quite the praise, making it one of the most acclaimed Star Wars projects to date. Despite not appearing in season two, Serkis revealed that people continue to reach out to him.
"Yeah. This year, I've actually done a bunch of conventions, and everyone wants to talk about Andor. It's remarkable how much it's affected people, which is great. It's such a beautiful piece of writing, such a beautiful conceit. Tony Gilroy and all the directors who worked on those episodes just cut something brilliant."
Kino Loy’s short time on screen had a lasting impact. The strength of Serkis’ performance and the depth of the writing helped make him one of the series' most memorable characters. His story, while brief, was complete and powerful, something Serkis and fans continue and will continue to celebrate.
Season 2 ended right before Rogue One began, giving us a complete story of Cassian Andor and his journey to becoming a rebel hero. Both seasons of Andor are now streaming on Disney+.
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