In a surprise shake-up for HBO’s “Game of Thrones” spin-off “House of the Dragon,” co-showrunner and director Miguel Sapochnik is reportedly departing the just launched series.
THR reports that the move stems from Sapochnik’s long history with the whole franchise, with the director opting to step away and move onto other projects.
With his exit, co-creator Ryan Condal will now serve as the sole showrunner for the series and will continue to work with author and co-creator George R.R. Martin on the series.
In addition, ‘Thrones’ veteran director Alan Taylor has been hired to serve as director for multiple episodes of the show’s second season, as well as stepping in as an executive producer as well.
Sapochnik will remain with HBO, where he has entered into a first-look deal with the company to develop new projects. He will remain an executive producer on “House of the Dragon”.
In its first week, more than 25 million viewers tuned into the show’s first episode – making it one of the most successful premieres of all time.
