It’s fair to say that Lucasfilm’s latest “Star Wars” series, “Andor,” is the most acclaimed show since the franchise debuted on Disney+ a few years ago. That said, “Andor” is a very different beast than its predecessors. Tony Gilroy’s series is much more adult and mature, with less focus on laser swords and evil wizards and more on politics and revolution. Perhaps, that’s why the series has yet to truly strike a chord with viewers on Disney+ and why the studio is utilizing other non-streaming avenues to increase viewership for “Andor.”
According to Disney, the latest “Star Wars” live-action series, “Andor,” is getting some special airings outside of Disney+ just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday and the finale of the first season. The studio is set to air the first two episodes of “Andor” beginning on November 23 on networks such as ABC, FX, and Freeform, as well as the Disney-owned streamer, Hulu.
Here’s where you’ll be able to find the first two episodes of “Andor” outside of Disney+:
ABC: Wednesday November 23, 9-10:30 pm ET/PT
FX: Thursday, November 24, 9-10:30 pm ET/PT
Freeform: Friday, November 25, 9-10:30 pm ET/PT
Hulu: Available from November 23 through December 7
So, why is Disney doing this? Well, there are a few different answers, most likely. First, Thanksgiving is typically a time of year when networks don’t have a lot of new content for viewers and having a “Star Wars” series is sure to drum up some interest. However, the biggest factor has to be the relatively low viewership for “Andor” on Disney+.
While the show is anything but a failure, it’s obvious that “Andor” isn’t doing the same type of numbers shows like “The Mandalorian” and “Obi-Wan Kenobi” enjoyed. The best encapsulation of this is when you notice that the new “Star Wars” animated series, “Tales of the Jedi,” is actually drawing more viewers than “Andor,” according to Parrot Analytics. That is definitely not something Lucasfilm wants to see. Not only that but “Andor” has already been greenlit for Season 2, which is actually going to run for more episodes than Season 1 and will continue this mature, adult-oriented narrative.
Long story short, Lucasfilm needs to try to get “Andor” in front of a wider audience and this is one of the best ways to do so. We’ll just have to see if this is something that works for the studio.
Again, “Andor” will debut on ABC, FX, Freeform, and Hulu the week of November 23.
Here’s the synopsis for “Andor”:
The “Andor” series – set five years before the events of Rogue One – focuses on Cassian Andor and his journey toward becoming a rebel hero. The tale is set against the backdrop of a burgeoning rebellion against a ruthless Empire, where people and planets are drawn into a conflict that will have far-reaching effects across the galaxy. It’s an era filled with danger, deception and intrigue, and one that will test the courage and resolve of a reluctant hero determined to make a difference.