Earthquake in Westeros! Series co-showrunner and historic Game of Thrones director Miguel Sapochnik is leaving House of the Dragon ahead of Season 2.
A big change is taking place right now within the production of House of the Dragon. Our colleagues from Deadline we learn that Miguel Sapochnik leaves his seat as co-showrunner of the series. According The Hollywood Reporterthe director would be exhausted after being fully invested in the spin-off.
Sapochnik worked on the series for three years; and now series co-creator Ryan Condal, who was also season 1 co-showrunner, will be in sole command. Ryan Condal will continue to work closely with fellow series co-creator George RR Martin. The rest of the production team, including Sara Hess, Jocelyn Diaz and Vince Gerardis, remain in place.
It’s Alan Taylor, another name well known to Game of Thrones fans who will enter the dance as director and producer of the second season of the series which was renewed even before the launch of season 1.
Miguel Sapochnik is therefore leaving but with an exclusive contract with HBO to develop new projects and will keep his function as executive producer for the duration of the series. The director spoke about his departure:
“It has been an honor and a privilege to work within the Game of Thrones universe for the past few years, especially the last two spent with the formidable House of the Dragon cast and crew. I’m so proud of what we’ve accomplished with Season 1 and overjoyed by the enthusiastic response from our viewers. It was an incredibly difficult decision to make, but I know it’s the right choice for me, personally and professionally.
In doing so, I’m perfectly reassured to know that Alan is joining the series. He’s someone I’ve known and respected for a long time and I believe this precious series couldn’t be in better hands. I’m happy to continue to be a part of HBO and the Game of Thrones family. And of course, I wish Ryan and his team all the success and the best for Season 2 and beyond.“
© 2022 Home Box Office, Inc. Miguel Sapochnik on the set of House of the Dragon
Alan Taylor said in turn: “It’s a pleasure and an honor to be back at HBO, to immerse myself in the world of the Targaryens. I look forward to working closely with Ryan for the second season. Coming back to Westeros will be a huge undertaking and I look forward to the challenge.“
In turn, HBO hailed Miguel Sapochnik for his work. “This series simply couldn’t have taken shape the way it did without him. We would have liked Miguel to continue playing the same role, but we are delighted to be able to count on his collaboration in this new creative position. Looking ahead, we have a decades-long relationship with Alan Taylor, and we’re thrilled to have him join Ryan and the rest of the talented team.“said a spokesperson.