Climb: The fatal parallel between Rogue One and Andor

WARNING: This article contains spoilers from Andor Episode 6.

The mid-season finale (of sorts) that was episode six of Andor was absolutely amazing in many ways. The episode was what the last few episodes have been building towards, and it contained a mix of action, suspense, and some of the best visuals we have seen in all of Star Wars. This episode was not without its low points, and one of those was during the rebellion team’s escape. Several of the team members were shot by the imperials, Cinta’s escape seems tenuous, and the young firebrand Nemik was crushed by a literal flat of credits. After this incident, Nemik starts to give Cassian instructions on how to escape and part of his last words are “Climb.”

Where Have We Heard This Before?

For those fans of Rogue One, those last words may sound familiar. K-2SO was Andor’s extremely sassy (in all the best ways) companion that we see during Rogue One. While he has yet to appear in season one of Andor (and by all reports won’t appear until season two) he is an essential part of Cassian’s story. When K-2SO is in the Imperial Vault on Scarif we see him giving his finals instruction on where to find the Death Star plans. He ends by telling Andor and Jyn to “Climb.” Evidently, the directors of Andor want to break our hearts twice.

The Importance of Nemik’s Last Words

But the importance of that exchange goes beyond that simple allusion to the other. Even at the end of episode six, Cassian Andor has still yet to commit to the rebellion. At Nemik’s request, his manifesto is left with the reluctant Andor, as a sign of his commitment to Andor and his belief in the Rebellion.

Andor’s commitment to the Rebellion and willingness to sacrifice everyone (just like Nemik did)  is fully realized in his fateful mission to Scarif. Perhaps Nemik’s manifesto will lead Cassian on the road toward Scarif, perhaps his promise to Nemik that he would be safe moves him. Hopefully, we will find out soon.

I can’t help but wonder if Nemik’s face came to mind when K-2SO said that fateful word “Climb.”

Andor is now streaming exclusively on Disney+. The next episode will premiere Wednesday, October 12th. Be sure to check out all of our coverage of the series, including episode recaps, reviews, and more.