House of the Dragon’s co-showrunner and director Miguel Sapochnik is stepping down as the first season of the Game of Thrones prequel airs.
The HBO series has barely started airing, but it’s said that the director is exiting after pouring three years of effort into the show, based on the Targaryen dynasty. He will remain as an executive producer.
Ryan Condal will now be the sole showrunner on the series, based on George RR Martin’s Fire & Blood.
Alan Taylor, who directed various episodes of Game Of Thrones, will serve as director and executive producer and director of multiple episodes in season two.
Miguel confirmed the news in a statement, saying: ‘Working within the Thrones universe for the past few years has been an honor and a privilege, especially spending the last two with the amazing cast and crew of House of the Dragon
‘I am so proud of what we accomplished with season 1 and overjoyed by the enthusiastic reaction of our viewers. It was incredibly tough to decide to move on, but I know that it is the right choice for me, personally and professionally. As I do so, though, I am deeply comforted to know that Alan will be joining the series.
‘He’s someone I’ve known and respected for a long time, and I believe this precious series could not be in safer hands. I am so glad to remain a part of the HBO and House of the Dragon family and, of course, I wish Ryan and his team success and all the best with season 2 and beyond.’
Alan added: ‘It’s a pleasure and an honor to be back at HBO, immersing myself in the world of the Targaryens, I look forward to working closely with Ryan as House of the Dragon grows into its second season.
‘Ryan, Miguel and George have launched an extraordinary story, in a rich and fascinating world. Returning to Westeros will be a huge undertaking and I’m looking forward to the challenge.’
HBO said: ‘Miguel Sapochnik has done amazing work on the first season of House of the Dragon, establishing its signature look and feel. This series simply could not have come together the way it did without him.
‘While we would have loved to have Miguel continue in the same role, we are thrilled to have his ongoing collaboration in this new creative capacity. Looking forward, we’ve had a decades-long relationship with Alan Taylor, and we are delighted to have him join Ryan and rest the talented team.’
The fantasy series stars Matt Smith (Daemon Targaryen), Emma D’Arcy (Rhaenyra Targaryen), Olivia Cooke (Alicent Hightower) and Paddy Considine (Viserys Targaryen).
It has proven wildly popular and has already been renewed for a second season.
House of the Dragon next airs on Monday from 2am on Sky Atlantic and NOW.
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