Cassian Andor exists as a morally grey character and that is exactly why his series works.
Editor's Note: The following contains spoilers for Episodes 1-4 of Andor.Cassian Andor is introduced in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story when he kills a contact after retrieving a critical piece of information. He’s introduced in Andor in the middle of a seedy brothel; shortly thereafter, he’s forced to kill two Pre-Mor officers. The Star Wars franchise has its fair share of anti-heroes, but the edges haven’t been sanded off of Cassian yet.
Andor Shakes Up the Star Wars Formula Star Wars is inspired by classic space opera series, so it was always conceived to be a “good versus evil” story. While there are certainly many characters that blur that line, the heroes at the center of the franchise right now are all familial figures who find a community that supports them.
The Empire Is in Decline and That Sets the Stage Andor takes place in the year “5 B.B.Y.” in the Star Wars calendar, which means five years before the Battle of Yavin . At this point in the galactic timeline, the Galactic Empire has spread across the galaxy and exerted its influence on every facet of life. Preox-Morlana serves the Empire in the trade section of the galaxy where Ferrix is located. The resources of the system are all poured into the Preox-Morlana capital planet of Morlana One.
We also see the way that the Empire is swiftly sweeping aside any signs of disruption. After the events on Ferrix, the Empire steps in to take control of Preox-Morlana and put the system under tight control. Those witnessing the Imperial plans unfolding are helpless to do anything; Senator Mon Mothma has to meet Luthen in disguise because she’s concerned that any of her trusted allies could be a spy.