Dedra Meero has been a compelling Andor character since she first appeared on screen in the series premiere. Her motives have always been clear -- though her means of getting what she wants have only become more interesting as the show has gone on. Why, we asked, would she actually let a man like Syril into her life? We might finally have some answers.
Denise Gough, who portrays Dedra in the show, spoke about her preparation for Season 2 in the latest installment of Star Wars' "Andor: Declassified" video series. She revealed that studying one aspect of real-world psychology put Dedra's behavior in perspective, leading up to filming the series' final season.
“I did a lot of research on female psychopathy," the actor said. "Apparently, females who are psychopaths are less likely to murder because they’re more likely to enlist people to do it for them. Which makes sense to me, because she gets Syril to do things.”
Psychologically, manipulation is a key component of psychopathy, even in women. The classic psychopath wins attention through charm; you don't have to try hard to convince someone to do something for you if they already like and want to please or impress you. Dedra is playing a dozen different mind games at once, and all for purely personal gain. She likely doesn't feel anything for Syril, but rather knows that if she gives him the affection he craves, he'll do whatever she asks.
She is, and will likely remain, in full control of Syril's every move. She decides not only when he can see his mother, for example, but also for how long. And the moment she commands him to do something, he does it without question. She would likely feel no remorse if something happened to him, at least if her story continues to imply her similarities to psychopathy. Gough looked into these traits specifically to create a compelling character, but that doesn't mean Dedra still couldn't do a complete 180 in the end. The show's unpredictability, in many aspects, is one of many elements that makes it truly stand out.
Andor Season 2, thus far, has leaned heavily on themes of sacrifice, needless destruction, and the many perils of rebellion. Dedra, desperate for the ongoing recognition from her superiors and colleagues, has now gone so far as to make Syril believe he is fully in on all of the ISB's plans. But she's always planning something bigger. Where that will lead her, only time will tell.
Season 2 of Andor is streaming now on Disney+.