Whatever Happened to Kino Loy?

Andy Serkis has finally addressed the fate of Kino Loy, his fan-favorite character from Andor season 1, who was last seen heartbreakingly admitting, "I can't swim," during the Narkina 5 prison escape. Despite speculation that Kino might return in season 2, the character is notably absent, and Serkis has now explained why.

Speaking to Collider (via SFFGazette.com), Serkis revealed that he believes Kino's arc had a powerful and conclusive end, and revisiting the character would diminish that impact. "It was such a great arc, and it had a very, very definite and heroic conclusion," he said. “To go back would be difficult because it has left a mark.” Serkis also noted the emotional resonance Kino had with fans, saying he was surprised by how deeply people connected with the character at conventions and public appearances.

Andor showrunner Tony Gilroy echoed those sentiments, explaining that bringing Kino back would have weakened one of the show's most memorable and emotionally charged moments. “Andy dropped the mic, man. What am I going to do that’s going to be better than what we did?” Gilroy said, emphasizing that continuing Kino’s story would have felt too coincidental and would have undercut the character’s dramatic exit.

Though Kino Loy’s ultimate fate remains unknown, both Serkis and Gilroy agree that the ambiguity serves the story best. While fans may hope he somehow survived and joined the Rebel Alliance, Gilroy and Serkis prefer to preserve the power of Kino’s sacrifice and the emotional weight of his final scene.

Whether Kino died during the escape or lived out his days imprisoned, his impact on Andor—and Star Wars—is undeniable.