Andor Season 2 Tackles Sexual Assault in a Powerful and Timely Manner

The first season of Andor subtly showcased the Empire’s oppressive ways, and the second season’s premiere episodes continue to explore this theme. The darkest example yet is found in episode three, “Harvest,” which contains spoilers and a content warning for discussions of assault.

In “Harvest,” Cassian’s friend Bix Caleen (Adria Arjona) is still recovering from her torture on Ferrix last season. During an Imperial inspection, an officer takes a particular interest in her, leading to a disturbing and violent encounter. The officer forces himself on her, but she fights back, killing him and declaring to his subordinate, “He tried to rape me.”

In an interview with the Hollywood Reporter, show creator and writer Tony Gilroy explained that the scene felt “organic and right” as part of Bix’s journey towards recovery. He noted that rape is a tragic and prevalent aspect of human history, often perpetrated by those in power.

Star Wars has touched on sexual assault in the past, such as Leia’s slave outfit and Qi’ra’s backstory in Solo, but this is the first time an attempted assault has been portrayed on-screen. Gilroy stated that while there are clear limits to sex and violence in Andor, Disney did not object to the scene.

In a separate interview with Variety, Adria Arjona discussed her experience filming the scene, recalling a mix of emotions. She felt “really scared” initially but considered the scene “really fucking powerful” and an honor to portray. Arjona emphasized the importance of depicting Bix’s vulnerability and the attack, as well as her character’s declaration of the assault.

Arjona added that the scene conveys a crucial message about survival and the need for women to prioritize their safety, especially when faced with strangers in their own space.

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