Ed Skrein left fans of Game of Thrones speculating when he exited the role of Daario Naharis after Season 3, only for Dutch actor Michiel Huisman to step in as the beloved character starting with Season 4. The transition was noticeable not just because of the shift in actors but also due to the difference it made to the series’ storytelling.
Skrein initially stated scheduling conflicts with his starring role as the younger version of Jason Statham’s character in The Transporter Refueled as the reason for his exit from the HBO epic. Yet, he recently opened up about the more nuanced truth behind his departure. "My plan was to stay with Game of Thrones for the long haul. That was always my plan. I would have loved to. It was a wonderful experience, but politics led to us parting ways," Skrein explained in an interview with Entertainment Weekly.
The actor’s exit was mired in political disagreements, which he described as inherent to the entertainment industry itself. He did not elaborate on the nature of these disagreements but maintained his perspective as simply part of the narrative surrounding his flight from the show. “This is a complicated industry and there’s always politics involved,” Skrein noted during another conversation with Too Fab, emphasizing how he did not walk away from the job but rather had to navigate the turbulent waters of show business.
Given his character’s significance—serving as advisor, lover, and enforcer to Daenerys Targaryen—the transition led to some fans being dissatisfied with the portrayal of Daario under Huisman, who took over the role. Huisman’s version of Daario went on to swear loyalty to Daenerys and even engage romantically with her, marking stronger narrative beats for his character than what had been established by Skrein. Unfortunately for the followers of the Mother of Dragons, their romance ended as she headed to Westeros, leaving Daario behind.
Ed Skrein viewed his departure cautiously, recognizing the whirlwind nature of the industry. Interestingly, after leaving Game of Thrones, Skrein starred in The Transporter Refueled, a role with exceptionally high expectations due to its association with the well-known series. Despite expectations, the film failed to impress critically, something Skrein acknowledged, but he expressed pride in his performance nonetheless. Following this, he gained significant recognition for his role as Ajax in Deadpool, which would seem to have positioned him favorably post-Game of Thrones.
Speculation surrounding Game of Thrones season 9 has brought up much discussion about the series' controversial ending, particularly related to Daenerys's fate and her dragon, Drogon. With Daenerys's death leaving some fans feeling unsettled, the notion remains on the table whether Drogon transported her body to Volantis, as speculated by some. This idea of Daenerys being resurrected or at least of Drogon finding another dragon rider has sparked various theories among the series' fans.
Such theories have garnered attention as they address the legacy of Daenerys, combining speculation with the rich lore provided by George R.R. Martin's works. While many agree with the premise of keeping Daenerys's character arc intact by not resurrecting her, it raises questions about what truly lies next for Drogon. With insights drawn from House of the Dragon, which showcases Targaryen funeral rituals, it might make for more fitting storytelling if Drogon burned the body of his late rider.
Skeptics of the resurrection theory point out the depth of Daenerys’s character arc; she experienced the ups and downs of power, entitlement, and tragic loss—elements prominently woven throughout Game of Thrones. Skrein’s departure reignited discussions on how pivotal character dynamics shape viewer satisfaction, especially for characters like Daario, who straddles the line between warrior and lover.
Intriguingly enough, if Game of Thrones season 9 were to come to fruition, the narrative could explore Drogon’s legacy without reviving Daenerys. History within Targaryen lore suggests dragons often change riders, which raises the possibility for Drogon to find someone else to bond with, honoring past connections without negasing future arcs. Speculation looms large over who may step up. Many contend it would be engaging to see new character developments alongside established narratives woven within the Targaryen dynasty.
Despite the dark shadows of political maneuvering behind Ed Skrein’s departure, his sentiments resonate with fans, drawing to light the underlying tensions of the production world, where creativity and corporate decision-making often collide. Nevertheless, the legacy of both Game of Thrones and its actors, including Skrein and Huisman, will continue to resonate with audiences as new stories continue to evolve and emerge.
For those who miss Game of Thrones, the series is still available on Max, serving as both a reminder of bold storytelling and the complex web of relationships within its universe.