Andor Star Reveals Dark Syril Secrets That Will Change How You See Star Wars!

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[This story contains spoilers through Andor season two’s eighth episode, “Who Are You?”]

In the first season of “Andor”, the character Syril Karn played by Kyle Soller was labeled as a fascist by a reporter, but this classification was firmly denied by the show’s creator, Tony Gilroy, at that time.

Two years and half later, during the eighth episode of the second season of ‘Andor’, titled “Who Are You?”, it becomes perfectly evident why Gilroy objected to the portrayal of the meticulous head of Imperial Bureau of Standards division. Since Gilroy had penned most of season two even before the release of season one, he was already aware of Syril’s shock upon discovering that the Empire, including his lover Dedra Meero, had manipulated him into leading the Ghorman population to massacre. Syril believed he was there to infiltrate and bolster the local rebel group, the Ghorman Front, with the intention of possibly drawing in outside rebels such as his sworn enemy, Cassian Andor (Diego Luna).

After extracting Dedra’s secret, I bid her farewell and navigated through a throng of Ghorman demonstrators, all while the Empire orchestrated a deceitful attack, shooting first at their own Imperial troops to stir up violence against Ghor. In the pandemonium, I spotted Cassian, the slippery outlaw who once brought my career as a Pre-Mor Authority deputy inspector to an end. In a flash, I lunged at him like a cornered beast, maintaining control until a crucial second of doubt cost me my existence.

Soller explained to The Hollywood Reporter that this character had constructed an idol of Cassian, almost like a poppet or effigy, yet Cassian was completely unaware of him. This realization is devastating for the individual because he yearns to be recognized and make an impact, and at this point, it’s a wound that cuts too deep. He has been deceived by Dedra and the Empire, and now his most cherished aspiration – to be noticed by Cassian – seems unattainable. His heart is heavy with sorrow.

Not only did it make matters worse, but learning that Syril had been controlled by the Empire confirmed the suspicions of his mother, Eedy (Kathryn Hunter), and his uncle Harlo. They had both cautioned him earlier that he was being deceived by his superiors. Specifically, after his advancement to division chief at the Bureau of Standards office on Ghorman in 204, Eedy voiced her concern that Harlo believed Syril was being thrown away and disregarded.

Soller states that he lacks anyone who supports or acknowledges him, nobody recalls him, and he has no one to rely upon. At every stage of his existence, there’s a breakdown of trust and faith.

However, even though Soller saw firsthand the Empire’s brutal methods of genocide, he remains doubtful that Syril would have chosen to join the Rebel alliance.

Soller muses, ‘It’s unlikely he would have sided with the rebels. I even doubt he would have chosen any side.’ Instead, Soller believes, ‘Given his experiences in those final ten minutes, he might have left to live a solitary existence somewhere.’

Ultimately, I feel privileged to have been an essential part of Star Wars’ most acclaimed production since “The Empire Strikes Back.” It was truly an experience that I will cherish.

Soller reflects that ‘Andor’ is offering a fresh perspective on the Star Wars saga. As he watched season two, he found himself deeply moved by it. There were instances where he felt like he was simply enjoying an outstanding television production, and then he realized, ‘Oh, this is Star Wars.’ In truth, ‘Andor’ has elevated the art form of this galaxy to new heights, and I couldn’t be more honored to be a part of it.

In a recent chat with THR, Soller shares insights about his last days on the Ghorman set and his privileged view of the climactic Dedra-Eedy confrontation in episode 203.

During a recent talk with THR, Soller talks about some of the sights and sounds from his final days on the Ghorman set and the unique vantage point he had for witnessing the epic Dedra-Eedy battle in episode 203.

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During season one, Tony Gilroy disagreed with someone who labeled Syrian Karn as a fascist. Instead, he characterized him as someone who follows rules and upholds the law. Given Syril’s response to the impending Ghorman Massacre, it makes sense why Tony reacted in this manner. After all, wouldn’t you agree that Syril is not the type of person who would ever pull the trigger to launch the Death Star’s laser?

In my opinion, he lacks the ability to press the button. He’s more of a romantic dreamer, actually. He’s intense, emotional, and highly motivated. There’s definitely an ambition for power within him, but if channeled incorrectly – into something like the Empire, which might be perceived as fascist – it could pose a significant risk. Such an individual can easily be influenced and molded. However, in the case of Syril in season two, you can witness that development.

Under immense pressure, his deeply-held convictions are shattered, revealing a truth far different from what he had assumed. The intricate web of life he constructed for himself within the Empire, Coruscant, and Ghorman, crumbles dramatically due to a chain of betrayals. He harbors resentment towards the Empire and considers killing Cassian, whom he holds responsible for all the misfortunes in his life since Ferrix, with suspicions extending even before that. This is because Syril tends to fixate on fantasies obsessively.

In the first season, I perceived him as a character who was constantly seeking self-discovery by clinging to the powerful hierarchy of the Empire. However, in the second season, he begins to assert himself and show signs of growth with small increments of power and promotions. He also develops a budding romance with Dedra, takes on a covert role as a spy on Ghorman, but ultimately finds that he’s not suited for the position he yearns to hold. Despite this, he possesses an excess of compassion for the Empire.

In the incident at Ghorman, he targeted Cassian Andor, someone he viewed as a source of distress, and gave it his all in the attack. With Cassian inquiring “Who are you?”, he paused momentarily, providing Carro Rylanz an opportunity to fatally strike Syril. Did Syril feel taken aback that the person who had been the focus of his three-year pursuit didn’t recognize him at all?

Indeed, that encounter with Cassian was the final blow to Syril’s sense of self. I’ve been nurturing this idol of Cassian, like a talisman, filling it with my rage and bitterness ever since Ferrix. To find out he didn’t even register me on his radar is unbearably painful because Syril has an inflated sense of self-importance. He yearns to be acknowledged and make an impact. His first taste of real peril and thrill was trying to capture Cassian on Ferrix, and it all backfired. Now, confronting him again, I pause, feeling the sting of his apparent forgetfulness – “You don’t recall me?” It’s a slap in the face, adding insult to injury after being betrayed by Dedra and the Empire. Syril is shattered by this rejection from his one great obsession. He’s heartbroken.

In the year 204, when Syril’s role on Ghorman was presented, he had a conversation with his mother Eedy (Kathryn Hunter) in his office. She attempted to offer him wisdom by expressing her belief that Uncle Harlo suspected he was being manipulated by the Empire. Therefore, the embarrassment of realizing his family may have been correct added another layer of pain to his situation.

Absolutely, I’m fond of that passage too, and it’s a sentiment I hope more people will carry with them. It was a skillfully written moment, as even Syril’s mother figured out when she conveyed the crucial information to him, a fact confirmed through Uncle Harlo. Essentially, he’s alone in every sense – no one supports him, no one recalls him, and no one he can rely on. I’ve always felt that trust has been a struggle for Syril. In season one at Morlana One, he couldn’t put faith in his colleagues because none were as dedicated as he was. His trust issues with Dedra only deepened when it became apparent she had him under surveillance. Though she claimed the surveillance came from Partagaz [Anton Lesser], Syril doubts himself and believes he’s unworthy of Dedra’s trust. At every level of his life, there’s a lack of faith and assurance, and I found that line you mentioned to be quite insightful.

I still think Dedra had genuine feelings for him, but does he believe that? 

It’s possible to feel love for someone, exploit them, and ultimately hurt them. Love can sometimes be harmful and complicated, not always representing genuine, healing affection. While Dedra’s motives appear crystal clear – she claims they are performing these actions to escape and reap rewards, sharing similar goals, and ensuring their well-being – it’s a chilling revelation. Syril, who has endured a lifetime of manipulation and control at the hands of his toxic, abusive, narcissistic mother, finds it hard to trust Dedra after she discloses the Empire’s true intentions on Ghorman. He begins to question her authenticity. [Writer’s Note: Denise Gough offers some enlightening insights into Dedra’s emotional state.]

Had he made it out of Ghorman alive, do you think he would’ve changed allegiances? 

If he had lived until the end of episode eight, I’m confident he wouldn’t have sided with the Rebels. In fact, I believe he wouldn’t have joined any side at all. Instead, I think those final ten minutes would have left him so traumatized that he would likely withdraw and live secluded somewhere.

As a gaming enthusiast, let me tell you, the face-off between Dedra Meero and Eedy Karn in Star Wars at the year 203 is, in my opinion, one of the most epic battles ever. I can’t help but wonder if Syril was asleep during that momentous event. I mean, what on Galactic Senate was that all about?

According to the script, Syril leaves, and director Ari Kleiman suggested they capture a scene in his bedroom. I responded by saying I knew how I would react in such a situation since I had been there before. Laughing, I expected him to regress and plunge into a deep depression, essentially a K-hole. He was thinking, “Why did I agree to this? This is terrible. [Eedy’s] disrupted any tranquility I’ve established here.

Did you get to watch the fireworks between Denise and Kathryn Hunter? 

Absolutely, I managed to catch the fireworks display, and it was truly a treat. I purchased a ticket to witness Kathryn Hunter and Denise perform, and every moment was captivating. When Tony initially explained the scene’s script, I was struck by its brilliance. I found myself thinking, “This is pure genius! This is extraordinary. I’d be content just sitting here, silently watching Eedy and Dedra divide pieces of Syril.” The unique dynamic among these three characters was simply strange and intriguing. We had to pause filming a few times because we were all laughing so hard. The orange goo flying around as Kathryn became more expressive with Eedy’s fondue eating added to the hilarity. So, that scene and the [208] scenes stand out as my top two highlights.

Just as the riot erupted in 208, Syril was apparently moving stiffly among the crowd. It seemed to me that you may have inadvertently received an elbow to the face from a woman of Ghorman origin. Was that indeed what transpired?

(Laughs.) Yeah, I forgot about that elbow.

Was production able to schedule Syril’s death day as your last day? 

As for what I was up to, it appears to have been something rather ordinary like taking a stroll. However, I’m not entirely sure, but it seems connected to the riot scene. We were deeply engrossed in this two-week segment, where we were handling both the riot and the fight sequence. Our talented director, Janus Metz, who is famously known for his documentary ‘Armadillo‘ about the war in Afghanistan, was involved. This part of the production felt incredibly impactful and authentic to us. There was an unmistakable air of tension that he managed to generate, and things got a bit chaotic at times. I took a few accidental elbows, but it was also thrilling. It all seemed so real and vibrant.

Which particular piece of Syril’s last stand was most emotional for you?

As a gamer stepping into the heart of the battle, the sheer intensity and brutality of the massacre was nothing short of overwhelming. I had the privilege of working alongside some talented French actors, who formed their own tight-knit group. The air was filled with the echoes of singing and screams, while flares and lasers lit up the background. It was a whirlwind experience that left me breathless, knowing my time was running out. Although it wasn’t my final day, it felt like it was close by. In those last moments with Cassian, I couldn’t help but marvel at the raw, powerful performance Tony gave to our character Syril in his dying scenes. What a gift!

In the grand scheme of things, what has this job meant to you? 

It’s been an absolute honor to be involved in it. The work that Tony and Diego have done is nothing short of extraordinary and intricately designed, particularly with the second season. It’s incredibly dark, deeply human, powerfully moving, and emotionally resonant. Tony and his team of writers are operating on a different plane. I hadn’t collaborated with such talented individuals before.

In “Rogue One,” those seeds were sown, and when I watched it, I was struck by its unique take on Star Wars. It felt mature and human, which really appealed to me. As a result, I believe that “Andor” has paved the way for Star Wars to delve deeper into unexplored territories. Admittedly, I was involved in its creation, but watching season two moved me profoundly. There were instances when I felt like I was simply enjoying an outstanding TV show, and then it hit me, “Oh, this is Star Wars.” In my opinion, “Andor” has elevated the Star Wars universe to the realm of art, and I’m incredibly proud to be a part of its journey.

Stream the second season of Andor on Disney+ now. Explore additional season two coverage from THR, featuring stars such as Denise Gough, Tony Gilroy, Genevieve O’Reilly, and a duo including Diego Luna and Adria Arjona.

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2025-05-07 23:57