Here’s where the cast of ‘Andor’ went to uni

The latest “Star Wars” show, “Andor,” is capturing everyone’s attention for its rich storyline, complex characters and solid world-building. It follows Rebel spy Cassian Andor — who many avid fans may remember from the critically-acclaimed “Rogue One” — and his missions, triumphs and troubles for the cause. 

As is usual for the franchise, many talented actors have been brought on to bring these characters — both new and familiar — to life. The “Andor” cast is led by Diego Luna, who played the title character in “Rogue One.” Other outstanding performers include Stellan Skarsgård, Fiona Shaw and Genevieve O’Reilly. 

While the “Andor” cast’s spectacular performances can largely be attributed to natural talent, most of the cast were professionally trained in the art of acting at university. These programmes typically offer a comprehensive overview of drama and theatre, training aspiring actors to perform on stage and for the camera across a variety of genres. 

Here’s where the “Andor” cast got their training: 

Where the “Andor” cast honed their craft

Adria Arjona attended San Juan University for her schooling and college years. Source: Jon Kopaloff/AFP

Adria Arjona

Adria Arjona is an actress and model who plays Bix Caleen in “Andor.” born in Puerto Rico, she lived in Mexico City before moving to Miami at 12 years old. Following this, she relocated to New York City at 18 to pursue her acting career. 

Arjona attended San Juan University for her schooling and college years. Outside of this, the young starlet joined Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute in New York, where she chose to study acting. Whilst enrolled there, she worked as a waitress and hostess in the city. 

Kyle Soller

Kyle Soller plays Syril Karn, the main antagonist in “Andor.” Born in Connecticut, Soller is mainly known for his roles in the “Star Wars” franchise as well as in other notable works such as “Anna Karenina” and “The Hollow Crown”. Mostly, however, Soller made his name on stage, winning awards for starring in several productions at The Young Vic theatre in London. 

The “Andor” cast member received his training at the College of William and Mary, where he majored in art and history. He attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London as part of his third-year semester abroad. Following this, he realised his true passion and relocated to the academy to complete his studies. 

Fiona Shaw and her wife at the premiere of ‘Andor’. Source: Robyn Beck / AFP

Fiona Shaw

Fiona Shaw is a British actress best known for her role as Aunt Petunia Dursley in the “Harry Potter” film series. A multiple BAFTA and Emmy-award winner, Shaw has established herself as a formidable talent in the British film and television scene. Other notable projects of hers include “True Blood”  and “Killing Eve.” She worked with The Royal Shakespeare Company on several occasions as well.

Shaw grew up in Cobh, County Cork, where she spent most of her early life. She received an education at Scoil Mhuire, an all-girls school in Cork, and then pursued a degree in philosophy at University College Cork. 

Genevieve O’Reilly

Genevieve O’Reilly is an Irish-Australian actress best known for playing Mon Mothma. She portrayed this role across various “Star Wars” franchises, including “Revenge of the Sith,” “Rogue One,” and “Star Wars Rebels”. She recently joined the “Andor” cast and reprised her role in the series. 

O’Reilly was born in Dublin, Ireland, and raised in Adelaide, Australia. She moved to Sydney at 20 to attend the National Institute of Dramatic Art, graduating in 2000. 

Ebon Moss-Bachrach

Ebon Moss-Bachrach joined the “Andor” cast as Rebel member Arvel Skeen. He was born and raised in Massachusetts, where he attended Amherst Regional High School. Outside of “Andor,” Moss-Bachrach is known for his roles in “The Punisher” and the comedy-drama series “Girls”.

Moss-Bachrach attended Columbia University and graduated in 1999.