Miguel Sapochnik’s sudden departurefrom HBO’sHouse of the Dragonwas a creative shake-up that surprised fans and even some stars of the show. The announcement came mere days after theGame of Thronesprequel premiere, prompting a mix of shock and disappointment from viewers and cast members. Among the actors who expressed their thoughts on Sapochnik’s shock exit wasSteve Toussaintwho plays Lord Corlys Velaryon, The Sea Snake, on the show. Now months later,Olivia Cookeanother prominent star of the show who portrays Lady Alicent Hightower is the latest to share her perspective on Sapochnik’s departure as co-showrunner while also revealing how the show is progressing in his absence.
In his official statement, confirminghis departure, Sapochnik conveyed an optimistic perspective on the show’s future. “I find solace in the fact that Alan (Taylor) will be joining the series,” his statement noted. “He’s someone I’ve held in high regard for an extended period, and I’m confident that this beloved series couldn’t be in more capable hands.” As Season 2 entered production, fans naturally harbored concerns, given his remarkable track record from his tenure onGame of Thrones. However, Cooke is now offering reassurance that developments for the upcoming second season are progressing smoothly.
In her recent chit-chat on an episode of The Wrap’s UnWrapped Podcast, the actress began by praising Sapochnik’s brilliance before proceeding to reveal how things are progressing on set. She said;
“We all love Miguel, he’s a brilliant director and an incredible collaborator. He had just really radical ideas when it came to making this show. And I guess there’s been a collective effort to fill his shoes with other amazing directors. We’ve got some really cool directors that we’re working with this year and Geeta Patel and Clare Kilner are back, I mean his shoes won’t be replaced entirely because he is his own entity, but there’s still that proportion to make this season as good, if not, better.”
When Can Fans Expect To See House of the Dragons Season 2
AsHouse of the Dragongears up for its second season, Cooke’s portrayal of Lady Hightower will once more take the spotlight, as the imminent dance of dragons sets the stage for a fierce clash between her house and the formidable House Targaryen. The show has not been impacted by the ongoing WGA andSAG-AFTRA strikesas it is being filmed primarily in the UK and the actors belong to a different union, the British Union – Equity, allowing them remain unaffected by the ongoing strikes in America.
Writer and executive producerGeorge R. R. Martinrecently confirmed that filming for Season 2 is halfway done. However, while HBO is yet to officially set a release date, it is highly likely thatHouse of the DragonSeason 2will premiere in 2024. You can watch the rest of Cooke’s interview below where she also touched onthatfoot scene between Lady Hightower and Larys Strong (Matthew Needham).
