It was announced earlier this month that following a record-breaking premiere, House of the Dragon will be back for another season. However, fans can expect season two to perhaps be a little bit different as it is losing a very important player.
MORE: House of the Dragon viewers left 'disappointed' after pointing out major change from Game of Thrones
Miguel Sapochnik, who served as co-showrunner and director during the Game of Thrones prequel series' first season, has announced that he will be stepping down from the role ahead of production starting on the new episodes. Co-creator Ryan Condal, who shared showrunner duties with him, will now serve as sole showrunner.
WATCH: Are you enjoying season one of House of the Dragon so far?
Confirming the news to Deadline, Miguel - who helmed the House of the Dragon premiere as well as iconic GoT episodes Battle of the Bastards and Hardhome - said: "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."
MORE: See what the incredible cast of House of the Dragon look like out of costume
MORE: House of the Dragon: How is Rhaenyra related to Daenerys? Targaryen family tree explained
He continued: "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."
© Photo: SkyHouse Of The Dragon co-showrunner Miguel Sapochnik is stepping down
Meanwhile, another Game of Thrones veteran will join the team as a director and executive producer on the second season of the show, which was renewed just days after its successful launch. Alan Taylor will work closely with series co-creator George R.R. Martin and the rest of the producing team, which consists of Sara Hess, Jocelyn Diaz and Vince Gerardis.
MORE: House of the Dragon creators defend graphic birthing scene in episode one following backlash
"It's a pleasure and an honor to be back at HBO, immersing myself in the world of the Targaryens," he said in a statement. "I look forward to working closely with Ryan as House of the Dragon grows into its second season.
"Ryan, Miguel and George [R.R. Martin] 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."
Like this story? Sign up to our What to Watch newsletter to get other stories like this delivered straight to your inbox.
