George R.R. Martin, the celebrated author behind “A Song of Ice and Fire,” isn’t just focused on Westeros. The prolific storyteller has been vocal about his appreciation for compelling science fiction and fantasy across various mediums, and recently revealed his pick for the best “Star Wars” spin-off series to date. While fans eagerly await the next installment in his epic fantasy saga, Martin has been keeping busy – and watching television.
The author, known for his intricate world-building and subversive storytelling in “Game of Thrones,” praised “Andor” as a standout achievement in the “Star Wars” universe. Martin shared his thoughts in a July 2025 entry on his personal blog, “Not a Blog,” detailing the shows and films that have recently captured his attention, including James Gunn’s “Superman” and the Apple TV+ series “Murderbot.” But it was the Disney+ series “Andor” that earned the highest praise.
“’ANDOR’ was this year’s highlight, though,” Martin wrote, declaring it “far and away the best of the ‘Star Wars’ spin-offs.” He lauded the show’s realism, tension, and strong performances, particularly highlighting Diego Luna’s portrayal of Cassian Andor. This endorsement from the creator of a genre-defining fantasy series speaks volumes about the quality and depth of the “Andor” series.
“Andor,” created by Tony Gilroy, distinguishes itself from other “Star Wars” productions through its grounded and politically charged narrative. Unlike the often-heroic and straightforward adventures typical of the franchise, “Andor” delves into the complexities of rebellion, exploring the moral ambiguities and sacrifices inherent in fighting against oppression. This approach, Martin noted, resonated with his own storytelling philosophy.
At their best, “Game of Thrones” and Martin’s source novels excel at subverting established fantasy tropes to explore larger thematic points. “Andor” consistently employs a similar strategy within the “Star Wars” universe. Where traditional “Star Wars” stories often feature clear-cut victories and noble sacrifices, “Andor” presents a more nuanced and often bleak reality, mirroring the complexities of real-world conflict. Death is often random, and victories come at a significant cost.
Martin specifically praised the show’s visual aesthetic and attention to detail, stating, “Looked gorgeous, [star] Diego Luna was first rate, and there was a realism and tension to the story that was sadly lacking in most of the other spin-offs. It’s nice to see someone doing science fiction right.” The series’ creators invested heavily in practical sets and real-world locations, contributing to its immersive and believable atmosphere. You can stream “Andor” now on Disney+.
Beyond his appreciation for “Andor,” Martin continues to be involved in a variety of projects. He serves as an executive producer on “Dark Winds,” the neo-Western crime drama based on Tony Hillerman’s “Leaphorn & Chee” novels, and even shared the screen with Robert Redford in what marked the actor’s final on-screen appearance. He also frequently recommends overlooked gems like the 1980s film “Dragonslayer,” praising its surprisingly gritty depiction of a classic fantasy trope.
For those seeking a lighter companion piece to “Andor” within the “Star Wars” universe, Martin suggests checking out “Skeleton Crew,” another series set in a galaxy far, far away. As Martin’s endorsement demonstrates, “Andor” represents a bold and innovative direction for the “Star Wars” franchise, offering a compelling and thought-provoking experience for fans and newcomers alike.
What comes next for George R.R. Martin remains a subject of intense speculation, particularly regarding the long-awaited completion of “The Winds of Winter.” However, his recent viewing habits suggest a continued passion for engaging and well-crafted storytelling across all genres. Share your thoughts on “Andor” and Martin’s preferences in the comments below.
