HBO’s highly-anticipated Game of Thrones prequel House of the Dragon has shut down production following a positive COVID case. Even before Game of Thrones came to a close, HBO became interested in keeping the monumental success going by creating spin-offs set within the world George R.R. Martin created for his Song of Ice and Fire series. Though the initial effort, a pilot known as The Long Night starring Naomi Watts, was ultimately passed over, HBO has multiple ideas in development currently. House of the Dragon is the first spin-off to properly enter production for HBO.
Based on Martin’s Fire & Blood novel, House of the Dragon centers on the history of House Targaryen, starting when King Viserys (Paddy Considine) is on the throne. The prequel also stars Matt Smith, Olivia Cooke, Emma D’Arcy, Rhys Ifans, Steve Toussaint, and Sonoya Minuzo. Much of the casting took place last year, and House of the Dragon began filming in April. HBO is currently aiming for a 2022 premiere for the series, though production has now hit a speedbump.
Per Deadline, the U.K. set of House of the Dragon has been on pause for two days following a positive COVID case in Zone A, which reportedly includes cast and crew. The positive production member is currently isolating, as are those who came in contact with them, per the set guidelines. Filming is expected to begin again on Wednesday.
Last year, halted productions were practically an everyday occurrence, but there had been signs of Hollywood getting back to normal in recent months. However, as the Delta variant continues to be a concern, there have been a few other sets that have shut down over COVID concerns. Most notably, Netflix’s breakout hit Bridgerton has hit pause on season 2, and it remains to be seen when it will begin again. That House of the Dragon is only stopping for a few days suggests the production member to have tested positive isn’t a key part of the cast.
Provided there are no further delays, House of the Dragon likely won’t find itself being held back from its planned 2022 premiere. HBO hasn’t set a definitive time for it within the year, but right now it seems likely that it could arrive closer to summer. Of course, this is dependent on there not being a longer production shutdown. Hopefully, those on the set of House of the Dragon are being cautious as they proceed forward and will avoid any other health concerns.
House of the Dragon premieres in 2022 on HBO.
Source: Deadline
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