Andor Season 2 Review: Is This the Best Star Wars Story Ever?

Dive into the initial reviews for Andor Season 2, the critically acclaimed Star Wars series that’s setting a new standard for the franchise.

Premiering on Disney+ on April 22, 2025, this Andor Season 2 review roundup explores why critics are calling it a masterpiece, from its gripping political intrigue to its stellar performances.

Read on to discover what makes this season a must-watch for fans and newcomers alike.

Why Are Critics Raving About Andor Season 2?

The initial reviews for Andor Season 2 have flooded in, and the verdict is nearly unanimous: this is Star Wars at its peak. With a stellar 98% on Rotten Tomatoes and a 93/100 on Metacritic, the season has outshone its already celebrated first season. Critics praise showrunner Tony Gilroy for crafting a narrative that’s both a thrilling prequel to Rogue One and a standalone epic. The season’s ambitious structure—covering four years across four three-episode arcs—has been lauded for its seamless pacing and emotional depth.

Erik Kain of Forbes calls it “a masterpiece,” emphasizing its ability to create tension despite its prequel status. Similarly, Roger Ebert’s Brian Tallerico declares it “the best season of television this year,” highlighting its blend of sharp intellect and grandiose sci-fi action. The season’s focus on ordinary people resisting a fascist Empire resonates deeply, making it politically relevant in 2025.

What Makes the Story and Characters Stand Out?

Andor Season 2 picks up a year after Season 1, following Cassian Andor (Diego Luna) as he evolves from a reluctant rebel to a committed leader. The narrative spans four years, with each three-episode block jumping forward, culminating in the events of Rogue One. Critics praise this structure for keeping the stakes high, even with a known ending. Vanity Fair notes its “sophisticated epic” quality, blending highbrow political intrigue with Star Wars’ space-opera roots.

Diego Luna’s subtle performance anchors the series, with reviewers like Tallerico noting his transformation from a subdued outlaw to a passionate rebel. Adria Arjona’s Bix Caleen, carrying the weight of past trauma, delivers a standout performance, while Genevieve O’Reilly’s Mon Mothma earns praise for her nuanced portrayal of a senator embracing radical action. New and returning characters, like Ben Mendelsohn’s Orson Krennic and Alan Tudyk’s K-2SO, add depth and excitement.

How Does Andor Season 2 Compare to Season 1?

Many wondered if Season 2 could match the brilliance of Season 1, which set a high bar with its heist and prison arcs. According to critics, it not only meets but exceeds expectations. Forbes’ Kain argues it’s “just as good” as Season 1, while Collider’s Maggie Lovitt claims it achieves “an entirely new level of perfection.” The season retains the gritty, human focus that made Season 1 a cult hit but expands its scale with new worlds and higher stakes.

However, not all reviews are glowing. Barry Hertz of Globe and Mail notes a “steep drop” from Season 1, citing a slower pace in parts. Still, even he acknowledges the rousing finale and a standout moment in Episode 9 that’s set to spark online buzz. The consensus? The middle arcs, particularly Episode 8, are among the strongest, with Tessa Smith of Mama’s Geeky calling Episode 11 “chill-inducing.”

Why Is Andor Season 2 So Politically Relevant?

In an era of global unrest, Andor Season 2’s themes of resistance against fascism strike a chord. Critics highlight its timely exploration of rebellion, sacrifice, and the cost of fighting oppression. Vanity Fair calls it “the most politically relevant TV of 2025,” noting its focus on ordinary people challenging unchecked power. The show draws parallels to World War II and real-world struggles, making it more than just a sci-fi adventure.

Den of Geek’s Brynna Arens praises the inclusion of the Ghorman Massacre, a pivotal event that underscores the Empire’s cruelty and the rebels’ resilience. This grounded, human story avoids the franchise’s typical reliance on Jedi or iconic villains, instead focusing on the “regular folks” who fuel the Rebellion. As Lili Loofbourow of The Washington Post notes, this focus sets Andor apart from other Star Wars properties.

Is Andor Season 2 Worth the Wait?

After a two-and-a-half-year gap, partly due to WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, Andor Season 2 has proven worth the wait. Its 12-episode run, released in three-episode batches weekly until May 13, 2025, offers a cinematic experience that feels like four interconnected films. Critics like Andrew Mack of ScreenAnarchy call it “some of the best television you will watch this year,” while IGN hails it as “the most engaging Star Wars in a long time.”

The season’s action sequences, like Cassian stealing a TIE Avenger, are more intense than ever, with Lucasfilm upping the ante on visual effects. Yet, it’s the emotional core—hope, loss, and the fight for a better future—that leaves a lasting impact. As Den of Geek notes, “Rebellions are built on hope,” and Andor Season 2 delivers that in spades.

Some Closing Thoughts:

Andor Season 2 has redefined what Star Wars can be, blending heart-pounding action with profound themes of resistance and sacrifice.

With critics hailing it as a masterpiece and one of the best TV seasons of 2025, it’s a must-watch for anyone craving intelligent, emotionally resonant storytelling.

Stream it now on Disney+ and join the rebellion.