HBO Developing Arya Stark Sequel Series Following Cancellation Of Jon Snow Spinoff

HBO has reportedly shifted its attention to a new sequel series set in the world of Westeros. The network is in the early stages of developing a show centered on Arya Stark. This news arrives shortly after the confirmation that the proposed Jon Snow spinoff has been scrapped. Writer Quoc Dang Tran has been tapped to spearhead the new project. He is best known for his work on the Apple TV drama ‘Drops of God’.

The potential series aims to pick up where the original show concluded its massive run. Audiences last saw the youngest Stark daughter sailing away to discover what lies west of Westeros. This premise offers a clean slate for storytelling away from the political entanglements of the Seven Kingdoms. It allows the writers to explore new lands and mythologies that were never touched upon in the books or the main series. The project is described as being in very early development at this time.

This creative pivot serves as a replacement for the now-abandoned Jon Snow sequel. Kit Harington had previously pitched a specific and dark vision for his character that the network ultimately rejected. The actor wanted to portray a broken version of the former Lord Commander who was suffering from severe PTSD. Harington envisioned a narrative where Snow abandoned his sword Longclaw and his direwolf Ghost to live in total isolation.

Executives reportedly felt that Harington’s concept was too downbeat for a major franchise continuation. The proposed storyline involved the character building cabins only to burn them down in fits of psychological distress. Harington also expressed a desire for Jon Snow to die by the end of the limited series. The network could not agree on a storyline that balanced this heavy tone with the expectations of the audience.

The Arya Stark concept offers a similar advantage of geographical separation without the overwhelming gloom. It provides an entry point for new viewers who may not be familiar with the dense history of the original surviving cast. Reports indicate that the story may also involve adventures in the continent of Essos. No casting decisions have been made regarding the project yet. It remains unconfirmed if Maisie Williams has been approached to reprise her famous role.

George R.R. Martin has not officially commented on the specific details of this unannounced show. The author continues to navigate a complex relationship with the network regarding the adaptation of his works. This development comes as HBO attempts to build a release roadmap similar to the strategy used by Marvel Studios. The network is currently managing multiple projects including the ongoing ‘House of the Dragon’.

Fans of the fantasy franchise still have other confirmed projects to look forward to in the coming years. The prequel series ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ is currently on the slate for release before 2028. This show is expected to offer a different tone that contrasts with the darker themes of recent entries. The addition of an Arya Stark adventure suggests that the studio sees the franchise as a long-term priority.

Let us know if you would prefer a show about Arya’s voyages or the darker Jon Snow story in the comments.