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Warning: This story includes spoilers for the Season 1 finale of Dune: Prophecy.
The streaming series Dune: Prophecy, set 10,000 years prior to the events depicted in the theatrical Dune adaptations, wrapped up its inaugural season with a significant twist and a cliffhanger that sets the stage for a second season. Viewers who were observant might have caught hints of this revelation early on, as indicated by showrunner Alison Schapker, who participated in a panel alongside cast members Olivia Williams, Travis Fimmel, and Emily Watson, along with key production personnel at Universal Studios.
The narrative of Dune: Prophecy delves into the beginnings of the Bene Gesserit, a mystical order critical to the lore created by author Frank Herbert. In the series, Valya (played by Watson) and Tula Harkonnen (portrayed by Williams) are seen training women to master their mental faculties. The characters Valya and Tula are also depicted at younger ages through flashbacks featuring Jessica Barden and Emma Canning respectively. A key revelation in the finale is that Desmond Hart (Fimmel) is actually the son that Tula placed for adoption as a baby to ensure his safety.
“When Tula swaddles her infant before she hands him to Sister Fran for relocation, she wraps him in her robe, symbolizing her connection,” Schapker explained.
Williams highlighted that viewers have seen Desmond in possession of a piece of that fabric throughout the show since its pilot episode. “It was something Travis carried in many scenes, this piece of cloth, which is something any parent understands. The first thing you wrap a child in becomes irreplaceable,” Williams remarked, emphasizing how this motif enriched the series’ emotional depth.
READ: Everything we know about Dune 3, also known as Dune Messiah
Schapker noted that the connection between Desmond and the Harkonnen sisters was integral from the outset of the series, a concept that attracted Williams to her role. Interestingly, Desmond is an original character not found in the original 26 Dune novels, a fact that Fimmel appreciated.
“Thank goodness,” he expressed, relieved to avoid the weight of expectations surrounding established characters. “[Dune] fans can be incredibly passionate, which is great, but it also means there’s a lot to consider. My storyline is unique—I just had some deep-seated family issues trying to find love,” he said, reflecting on his character’s journey.
The revelation of Desmond’s lineage proves painful for Valya. He employs a thinking machine, which has been embedded in him, and this same device induces a fear virus in Valya, a challenge she ultimately overcomes. Watson suggested that this storyline resonates with the core themes within Herbert’s work.
“This moment captures the essence of Dune’s philosophy,” Watson asserted. “Fear is the mind-killer. That theme is profoundly evident in the finale.”
Looking ahead to Season 2, Schapker and her team are beginning to shape the new storyline. Currently, Tula is with Desmond, while Valya has traveled to Arrakis, the planet integral to the universe of Dune. Schapker described the aim of Season 1 as introducing the sisterhood, who play advisory roles to the Imperium, the overarching political body. Season 2 is anticipated to explore more elements derived from additional works penned by Herbert’s son, Brian, and Kevin J. Anderson.
“We’re establishing the foundation set in the Great Schools trilogy,” she stated. “Viewers can expect to learn more about the different schools and meet additional significant players in the Imperium. For those wondering about the Mentats or the Spacing Guilds, Season 2 is poised to dive deeper into the rich world of Dune.”
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www.goldderby.com