Why Did Kleya Kill [Spoiler] in Andor Season 2 Episode 10?

Wondering how a key rebel leader meets his end in the Andor Season 2 finale — and why Kleya must finish the job herself? After years of orchestrating the rebellion from the shadows, he finally faces the Empire in a confrontation that tests his resolve, legacy, and the loyalty of those around him. As secrets unravel and the stakes rise, Kleya makes a devastating choice that changes everything.

Here’s how he dies — and why Kleya had no choice but to let him go.

How Luthen Rael dies and why Kleya had to kill him in Andor Season 2

Kleya Marki kills Luthen Rael by infiltrating the Coruscant hospital where Imperials hold him, planting an explosive to distract the guards, and disconnecting his life support. Disguised as a nurse, she reaches his room, quietly ends his life, and kisses his forehead before escaping.

Earlier in Andor Season 2, Episode 10, ISB Supervisor Dedra Meero corners Luthen at his antiquities shop and identifies him as “Axis.” She catches him as he tries to destroy the rebel communications console. In a desperate move, Luthen attempts to stab himself with a dagger. Dedra calls in reinforcements and orders him taken to the hospital alive for interrogation.

Before his arrest, Luthen learns from his ISB mole, Lonni Jung, that the Empire’s “energy project” is a cover for constructing the Death Star. After receiving the intel, Luthen kills Lonni to eliminate any risk of exposure and begins wiping all traces of the rebel operation.

Flashbacks reveal Kleya’s past with Luthen. As a child, she hid aboard his ship during a ground war. Luthen, a former Imperial soldier disillusioned by war, deserted and adopted Kleya. Together, they built an underground resistance, amassing influence and resources to oppose the Empire.

Elizabeth Dulau, who plays Kleya, told TV Line that her character’s decision to kill Luthen came from a mix of love and unresolved resentment. Though she cared for him deeply, she couldn’t forget the trauma tied to their shared past.

After completing her mission, Kleya escapes with Cassian and Vel to Yavin and relays the Death Star intel. Luthen’s final words to Dedra—“The rebellion isn’t here anymore. It’s flown away.”—confirm that the fight continues, even without him.