Sun May 04 09:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Benjamin Bratt Replaces Jimmy Smits as Bail Organa in “Andor”
**Los Angeles, CA** – Disney+’s “Andor” surprised viewers Tuesday night with a double dose of Star Wars nostalgia and a casting shake-up. The return of Senator Bail Organa, Leia’s adoptive father, marked the first time the character has been portrayed by an actor other than Jimmy Smits in a live-action project. Benjamin Bratt takes on the role in Season 2, Episode 6, “What a Festive Evening.”
Smits, who originated the role in “Attack of the Clones” (2002), had previously played Bail Organa in several Star Wars films and the series “Obi-Wan Kenobi.” However, scheduling conflicts with his role in the CBS series “East New York” prevented his participation in “Andor” Season 2, according to series creator Tony Gilroy.
While Bratt’s appearance in “What a Festive Evening” was brief, Gilroy confirmed further appearances are planned for the remaining episodes of the season. With the upcoming storyline expected to feature Bail Organa’s significant involvement in the early Rebel Alliance, fans can expect to see Bratt as Bail Organa for the foreseeable future within the series. New episodes of “Andor” Season 2 air Tuesdays on Disney+.
First Piper 