Actor Benjamin Bratt has taken over the role of Bail Organa in the second season of the Disney+ series Andor, replacing Jimmy Smits due to scheduling conflicts. Bratt discussed joining the Star Wars universe during a recent appearance on Good Morning America.
Bratt is known for roles in films like Miss Congeniality and Traffic, and previously dated actress Julia Roberts from 1998 to 2001. He recently appeared looking stylish on a morning show ahead of the new season of Andor.
Showrunner Tony Gilroy confirmed the recasting became necessary when Smits was unavailable. Gilroy explained that bringing back legacy characters involves complex scheduling and costs. The suggestion to cast Bratt reportedly came from Kathy Kennedy.
Gilroy opted to introduce Bratt's iteration of Bail Organa briefly in an earlier episode to allow audiences time to adjust to the change before the character's more central role.
Bratt shared his personal connection to the franchise during his interview. He recalled being a child lining up to see the original Star Wars film decades ago, describing it as a life-altering experience.
Stepping into the vast Star Wars universe is "mind-bending" for him, Bratt stated. He acknowledged the challenge of following Smits in the role but noted he had a strong support system on set.
Bratt joined the series relatively late in the process, describing the experience as similar to "jumping off of a bridge onto a box car of a moving train." He hopes his performance is well-received.
In his personal life, Bratt is married to Talisa Soto, and they have two children, Mateo Bravery and Sophia Rosalinda. The family tends to keep a low profile in San Francisco.
Bratt remains active in the industry with recent roles including Mother of the Bride, Poker Face, and Millers in Marriage. He said he cannot believe he is now part of the Star Wars universe after being one of the children who experienced the film in theaters almost 50 years ago.
