The second of Disney+’s upcoming slate of Star Wars television shows has found a new director for its first three episodes, Deadline has confirmed. The untitled series based on the character of Cassian Andor from Rogue One: A Star Wars Story will now be helmed by Toby Haynes (Black Mirror).
The director change is a result of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Originally, Tony Gilroy (screenwriter of the first four films in the Bourne franchise) was set to direct. However, the untitled series will be filming entirely in London. As Gilroy is based in New York, he decided to drop out to avoid traveling during the pandemic. Gilroy will remain involved as executive producer and showrunner for the series.
Haynes was already in-line to direct later episodes and was chosen personally by Gilroy as a replacement. Haynes is a London-based director known for work on BBC shows such as Sherlock and Doctor Who. This made him a good choice to ensure an easy transition between the two directors.
The spin-off series will focus on the early days of Rebel spy Cassian Andor (played by Diego Luna, Narcos: Mexico). Disney has not announced many details in regards to the series’ plot. Alongside Luna, Star Wars alums Alan Tudyk (Wreck-it Ralph) and Genevieve O’Reilly (The Snowman) will return as Andor’s droid companion K-2SO and Rebellion leader Mon Mothma, respectively. Also cast in the show are Stellan Skarsgard (Chernobyl), Adria Arjona (Good Omens), Kyle Soller (Anna Karenina) and Denise Gough (Colette).
The first Disney+ Star Wars show The Mandalorian won number of Creative Arts Emmys and unveiled the first trailer for its second season. In addition to the upcoming second season of The Mandalorian and the Cassian Andor spin-off, Ewan McGregor (Moulin Rouge) is set to reprise his role as Obi-Wan Kenobi in limited series.
The entire Star Wars film franchise, including Rogue One, is available to stream on Disney+.