House of the Dragon Showrunner Departed After HBO Refused to Let His Wife Serve as Producer (Report)

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House of the Dragon was a breath of fresh air for fans of Game of Thrones when it premiered in 2022.

By the end of the season, fans were left in shock when it emerged that co-showrunner and director Miguel Sapochnik was bowing out ahead of Season 2.

Details were scarce at the time about why Sapochnik was leaving, but a bombshell new report in Puck is shedding light on the situation.

On the Bridge - House of the Dragon

The outlet reports that the co-showrunner exited "after a protracted standoff over his wife and her involvement in the show."

Sapochnik's wife had a presence both on and off-screen during House of the Dragon Season 1.

Alicent Spectates - House of the Dragon Season 1 Episode 1

Alexis Raben played Talya in several episodes and was one of the series' producers.

When the second season was ordered, Sapochnik wanted Raben to join the producing team for the second season, Puck reports.

However, HBO was not fond of the idea because of Raben's lack of experience.

The report states that HBO brought in a mediator to help bring the dispute to a close, but in the end, Sapochnik exited the series.

Inquiring Minds - House of the Dragon Season 1 Episode 1

"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," Sapochnik said in a statement in August when news broke of his exit.

"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."

At the time, it was revealed that Ryan Condal would continue as sole showrunner, with GOT veteran Alan Taylor joining as an executive producer.

Speaking With Her Daughter - House of the Dragon Season 1 Episode 1

"It's a pleasure and an honor to be back at HBO, immersing myself in the world of the Targaryens," Taylor 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." 

Questioning His Moves - House of the Dragon

What are your thoughts on the report?

Hit the comments below.

Paul Dailly was an Associate Editor for TV Fanatic.Follow him on X.

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House of the Dragon Quotes

As the first century of the Targaryen dynasty came to a close The health of the Old King, Jaehaerys, was failing. In those days, House Targaryen stood at the height of its strength with ten adult dragons under its yoke. No power in the world could stand against it. King Jaehaerys reigned over nearly 60 years of peace and prosperity but tragedy had claimed both his sons Leaving his succession in doubt. So, in the year 101 The Old King called a Great Council to choose an heir. Over a thousand lords made the journey to Harrenhal. Fourteen succession claims were heard But only two were truly considered. Princess Rhaenys Targaryen, the King's eldest descendant and her younger cousin, Prince Viserys Targaryen The King's eldest male descendant. It is declared by all lords paramount and lords vassal of the Seven Kingdoms That Prince Viserys Targaryen be made Prince of Dragons tone! Rhaenys, a woman, would not inherit the Iron Throne. The lords instead chose Viserys my father. Jaehaerys called the Great Council To prevent a war being fought over his succession. For he knew the cold truth. The only thing that could tear down the House of the Dragon was itself.

Rhaenyra

Alicent: Did you read it?
Rhaenyra: Of course, I read it.
Alicent: When Princess Nymeria arrived in Dorne, who did she take to husband? Rhaenyra: A man.
Alicent: What was his name?
Rhaenyra: Lord Something.
Alicent: If you answer with "Lord Something," Septa Marlow will be furious.
Rhaenyra: She's funny when she's furious.
Alicent: You're always like this when you're worried.
Rhaenyra: Like what?
Alicent: Disagreeable. You're worried your father is about to overshadow you with a son.
Rhaenyra: I only worry for my mother. I hope for my father that he gets a son. As long as I can recall, it's all he's wanted.
Alicent: You want him to have a son?
Rhaenyra: I want to fly with you on dragon back see the great wonders across the Narrow Sea And eat only cake.
Alicent: I'm being serious.
Rhaenyra: I never jest about cake.
Alicent: You aren't worried about your position?
Rhaenyra: I like this position. It's quite comfortable.
[Alicent gets up to leave.]
Rhaenyra: Where are you going?
Alicent: Home. The hour has grown late.
Rhaenyra: Princess Nymeria led her Rhoynar across the Narrow Sea on 10,000 ships to flee their Valyrian pursuers. She took Lord Mors Martell of Dorne to husband and burned her own fleet off Sun spear to show her people that they were finished running.
Alicent: So you remember.
[Rhaenyra rips a page from the book.]
Alicent: If the Septa sees this book then...
Rhaenyra: Fuck the Septa.
Alicent: Rhaenyra!

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