In a landscape dominated by high-fantasy and intricate plots, HBO’s House of the Dragon stands as a beacon of hope for the network’s future. With its season 2 set to release in 2024, the series is not just a continuation of a saga but a critical component in HBO’s strategic lineup, especially in the wake of the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes.
A Smooth Sailing Production Amidst Strikes
Despite the industry-wide disruptions caused by the strikes, House of the Dragon Season 2 has managed to navigate through relatively unscathed, thanks to its actors being members of the UK union Equity. This allowed the filming to continue, positioning the series as a crucial contender in HBO’s 2024 roster, with its return expected around two years after the premiere of season 1.
Scaling Up the Spectacle
The ending of House of the Dragon season 1 has not only set the stage for grander scales and spectacles but has also underscored the series’ significance for HBO. The network has been in a constant battle to maintain its relevance and viewership, a struggle that has been ongoing since the conclusion of Game of Thrones.
The Pressure is On
With other major shows like The Last of Us, The White Lotus, and Euphoria likely not returning until 2025 due to the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike, the pressure is mounting on House of the Dragon Season 2 to deliver. It stands as HBO’s biggest show in 2024, overshadowing other potential hits like True Detective season 4 and The Sympathizer starring Robert Downey Jr.
A Beacon of Success
The series is not just a mere addition to HBO’s repertoire but a necessary triumph. The first season’s impressive ratings, averaging almost 30 million viewers per week across U.S. platforms, are a testament to its potential success. However, with a lack of other major franchises in 2024, HBO is likely hoping for even more substantial numbers from House of the Dragon Season 2.
The Long-term Flagship Franchise
While HBO has other notable shows, none seem to match the franchise potential of Game of Thrones, making House of the Dragon a crucial part of HBO’s long-term strategy. The series has effectively replaced Game of Thrones in terms of ratings, addressing a void that HBO has been struggling to fill. With more prequels like A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: The Hedge Knight on the horizon, the Game of Thrones universe is poised to remain HBO’s flagship franchise well into the 2020s and likely beyond.
House of the Dragon Season 2 is not just another chapter in the high-fantasy saga; it is a symbol of hope and a critical asset for HBO. Its success or failure will have a ripple effect on the network’s future, influencing its standing in the competitive entertainment landscape. The series has the weight of the network’s expectations on its shoulders, but if season 1 is any indication, it’s more than capable of carrying the burden and soaring to new heights.
The Anticipation Builds
As fans eagerly await the return of dragons and the intricate dance of politics and power, House of the Dragon Season 2 promises to be a monumental journey, pivotal not just for the characters within but for the legacy of HBO itself. The series is a beacon, illuminating the path for HBO in a post-Game of Thrones world, and all eyes are on this dragon to see if it can truly conquer the skies.
