Game of Thrones director’s shock exit from House of the Dragon

One of the key names involved in House of the Dragon has surprised with the news he’s stepping down ahead of season two.

Emmy award-winning Game of Thrones director Miguel Sapochnik has announced he’s stepping down as showrunner of the franchise’s prequel, House of the Dragon, just two weeks after its premiere.

Sapochnik, who directed some of the most memorable episodes of Thrones as well as several for House of the Dragon, served as co-showrunner alongside writer Ryan Condal for the series’ first season.

In a statement released today, the 48-year-old UK director said it was an “incredibly tough” decision to leave the production prior to season two, which was officially renewed at the weekend.

House Of The Dragon director Miguel Sapochnik with stars Milly Alcock and Emily Carey. Sapochnik directed the premiere, and also served as showrunner for the first season. Picture: HBO/Foxtel/Binge

Sapochnik has reportedly entered into a deal with HBO to develop new projects.

“Working within the Thrones universe for the past few years has been an honour and a privilege, especially spending the last two with the amazing cast and crew of House of the Dragon,” Sapochnik said.

“I am so proud of what we accomplished with season one 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.

“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 two and beyond.”

Big players: Ryan Condal, David Zaslav, Francesca Orsi, Miguel Sapochnik and Casey Bloys at the House of the Dragon premiere in LA. Picture: Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic for HBO

The news is certainly surprising given Sapochnik’s long affiliation with the franchise, and comes just weeks after he embarked on a mammoth press tour for House of the Dragon which included a talent panel at Comic-Con in San Diego, premieres in Los Angeles and London, and countless interviews.

Condal will now serve as the show’s sole showrunner, with co-creator and author George R.R. Martin still heavily involved in the production.

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Sapochnik won an Emmy for season six’s ‘Battle of the B**tards' – one of the most memorable episodes in Thrones history.

As part of Sapochnik’s announcement, HBO revealed fellow Thrones alum Alan Taylor has been brought on-board as an executive producer and director for season two.

Taylor, 63, was nominated for an Emmy for Outstanding Directing for a Drama for the season seven Thrones episode, “Beyond the Wall”.

“It’s a pleasure and an honour 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,” Taylor said.

“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.”

New episodes of House of the Dragon premiere Mondays at 11am on Binge and Foxtel