Genevieve O’Reilly Reflects on Mon Mothma’s Evolution in Andor Season 2

LOS ANGELES, CA — In a recent interview with Rolling Stone, Genevieve O'Reilly discussed her role as Mon Mothma in the Star Wars series Andor, highlighting the character’s journey and complex narrative during Season 2.

O’Reilly, who took over the role from Caroline Blakiston in 2004, saw her character’s development expand significantly in the latest season. After Mon Mothma sacrifices her daughter to a powerful banker to keep her rebellion afloat, O’Reilly was initially surprised by the storyline. She shared, “When Tony said after season one that we were starting with the wedding, I said, ‘Oh, my God, Tony, no. Please, we’re not actually doing this, are we?'”

Despite her reservations, O’Reilly collaborated closely with series creator Tony Gilroy to make the scene meaningful. “I really have to think on this. It’s just really bumping up against me,” O’Reilly recalled. Ultimately, they agreed to allow Mon Mothma to offer her daughter an out from the marriage, adding an emotional layer to the character’s moral dilemmas.

As the season progresses, audiences witness Mon Mothma in one of her most vulnerable moments, grappling with the consequences of her choices. O’Reilly commented on the character’s evolution, stating, “She has few allies. Palpatine‘s power and grip on the senate is undeniable. She is isolated. And she’s in danger.”

Throughout her portrayal, O’Reilly also emphasized the significance of Mon’s speech in episode nine, which critiques the government’s repression and speaks for those who have suffered at its hands. O’Reilly said, “She speaks on behalf of all those people being murdered by the state. She implicitly understands the violence that is being perpetrated and performed.”

The actress expressed gratitude for the opportunity to deepen her character within the Star Wars universe. “This is not something that you could plan for, or dare to hope for,” O’Reilly reflected. “What he’s achieved is quite extraordinary, and I think Mon Mothma’s role in that, and my part in that, is also quite an extraordinary journey.” As Andor continues to evolve, fans are excited to see where Mon Mothma’s story goes next.