Longtime Star Wars actress Genevieve O’Reilly talks about fleshing out Mon Mothma in the upcoming Disney Plus series, Andor.
Mon Mothma is a somewhat odd character in the Star Wars canon. She first appeared in Star Wars: Episode VI-Return of the Jedi in a very limited role. The implication was that she held some high position within the Rebellion but her role wasn’t explored until the Expanded Universe material started to be published. However, since then, the character has made more appearances in the official films and series played by Genevieve O’Reilly.
Genevieve O’Reilly first portrayed Mon Mothma in Star Wars: Episode III-Revenge of the Sith in a deleted scene. The actress would go on to reprise the role in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story where she clearly held a high position of power within the Rebellion. The upcoming Andor series will see her steeped in the politics of the Empie and will likely flesh out her character more than in previous films.
O’Reilly Talks Developing Mon Mothma
While speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Genevieve O’Reilly discussed Mon Mothma and how she didn’t expect the chance to dive into the character and really flesh her out:
“I’m not sure I did. This is such a gift of a role. It has been a genuine privilege to step into the shoes that Caroline Blakiston originated with George Lucas back in the ‘80s, as well as revisiting her at different times in my life. So to have the opportunity to explore her and delve into her — not just as a Rebel leader, but also as a woman — has been something that I didn’t expect and something that I’m thrilled to be a part of.”
Here is the synopsis for Andor:
“The “Andor” series will explore a new perspective from the Star Wars galaxy, focusing on Cassian Andor’s journey to discover the difference he can make. The series brings forward the tale of the burgeoning rebellion against the Empire and how people and planets became involved. It’s an era filled with danger, deception and intrigue where Cassian will embark on the path that is destined to turn him into a rebel hero.”
Andor stars Diego Luna, Stellan Skarsgård, Adria Arjona, Fiona Shaw, Denise Gough, Kyle Soller, and Genevieve O’Reilly. Tony Gilroy, Dan Gilroy, Stephen Schiff, and Beau Willimon served as the writers of the Star Wars series while Toby Haynes, Susanna White, and Benjamin Caron directed the episodes.
Andor will premiere Disney Plus on September 21, 2022, with three episodes. Stay tuned for all the latest news on the upcoming series and be sure to subscribe to Heroic Hollywood’s YouTube channel for more original video content.
