- The total production budget for the two seasons of “Andor” has reached a staggering $698.3 million.
- This massive cost makes the Disney+ series more expensive than any single “Star Wars” movie ever made.
- The high budget is largely due to the show’s extensive use of large-scale practical sets and effects over digital ones.
- Despite receiving over $142 million in UK tax credits, Disney’s net spending on the acclaimed series is still over $550 million.
A Galactic Price Tag for the Rebellion
The critically acclaimed “Star Wars” series “Andor” has reached a monumental production cost, with its budget for two seasons now totaling $698.3 million. According to a new report from Forbes, which analyzed recently filed public records, Disney spent an additional $60.5 million in 2024 to cover the final weeks of filming and extensive post-production work on the show’s upcoming second and final season.
This figure, which accounts for all production spending through November 22, 2024, solidifies “Andor” as one of the most expensive television series ever produced. The total is expected to climb even higher as final post-production and release costs for the new season are factored in next year.
The High Cost of Practical Effects
One of the primary drivers behind the series’ massive budget is its commitment to practical filmmaking. Unlike many modern productions that rely heavily on digital backgrounds and CGI, “Andor” was lauded for its use of sprawling, detailed physical sets and tangible effects. This approach, while contributing to the show’s gritty and immersive feel, significantly increases production expenses.
These costs are revealed through financial statements that production companies must file when filming in the United Kingdom. While these documents detail production spending, they do not include marketing and promotional costs, which would push the total investment even higher.
Financials Behind the Force
While the headline number is massive, the production did benefit from significant financial incentives. The UK government provided substantial tax breaks, reimbursing the production for 25.5% of its spending in the country. This resulted in a total reimbursement and tax credit of approximately $142.3 million.
After deducting the tax credit and other payments from an insurance payout and a pandemic grant, Disney’s net expenditure on “Andor” comes down to a still-hefty $552.4 million. Furthermore, the records show that $85.5 million was paid to staff, marking the highest wage bill for any Disney production in the U.K. over the past 15 years, underscoring the sheer scale of the series.
Image Referance: https://www.darkhorizons.com/andor-budget-now-up-to-698-3-million/