Everything you need to know before HBO’s ‘Dune: Prophecy’ premieres on Sunday
HBO’s new prequel series dives deep into the origins of the Bene Gesserit, unraveling secrets that set the stage for the epic battles seen in the recent “Dune” movies.
With “Dune Part Two” dropping earlier this year – finishing where “Dune” left off, the modern adaptation of Frank Herbert’s 1965 novel, “Dune” is officially complete. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t other stories in the Dune universe to explore. In addition to “Dune Part Three,” based on “Dune Messiah,” the second in Frank Herbert’s series of six novels, HBO is about to drop the Dune prequel series, “Dune: Prophecy.” The series will debut on Sunday, Nov. 17 at 9 p.m. ET on HBO and streaming on Max. Here’s everything you need to know about “Dune: Prophecy” ahead of its premiere.
Everything You Need to Know About ‘Dune: Prophecy’:
What is ‘Dune: Prophecy’ About?
“Dune: Prophecy” is HBO’s prequel series that delves into the backstory of the Bene Gesserit, the secretive sisterhood glimpsed in the “Dune” movies. Those films, directed by Denis Villeneuve, center around the journey of Paul Atreides, a young noble from House Atreides, who discovers his destiny on the desert planet of Arrakis. This barren world is the sole source of the precious spice melange, which gives heightened abilities and powers space travel.
In the Dune films, the struggle for control of Arrakis pits House Atreides against its sworn enemies, House Harkonnen, in a brutal conflict driven by greed and ambition. But behind these battles, the Bene Gesserit are silently manipulating events, using their centuries-old mystical powers to influence the galaxy’s future.
In “Dune: Prophecy,” the series rewinds the clock 10,000 years before the rise of House Atreides and its rivalry with House Harkonnen, exploring the origins of the Bene Gesserit’s far-reaching influence. So no, don’t expect Timothée Chalamet or Zendaya to make an appearance.
Based on the novel “Sisterhood of Dune” by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson, the story follows sisters Valya and Tula Harkonnen as they navigate ancient feuds and political conspiracies to establish the foundations of the sisterhood. This prequel series explores how the Bene Gesserit developed their powers of foresight, persuasion, and control—skills that would later shape the galaxy’s destiny. As Valya and Tula face imperial plots and discover forbidden knowledge, viewers should get a clearer look into the forces that set the stage for the epic struggles between Houses Atreides and Harkonnen in the Dune films.
Who are the main characters of ‘Dune: Prophecy’?
Valya Harkonnen: Emily Watson stars as Valya, a determined and visionary figure who becomes instrumental in establishing the Bene Gesserit sisterhood.
Tula Harkonnen: Olivia Williams plays Tula, Valya’s fiercely loyal sister. Tula’s strategic brilliance complements Valya’s ambition, making them a solid duo.
Desmond Hart: Played by Travis Fimmel, Desmond is a soldier with a complicated past and secret motives. He gets entangled in the Harkonnen sisters’ plan.
Emperor Javicco Corrino: Mark Strong takes on the role of Javicco, the ruler of the known universe. His ruthless decisions shape the galaxy’s future, making him a powerful force in the unfolding events.
Empress Natalya: Jodhi May portrays Natalya, the emperor’s powerful partner. She wields her own brand of influence behind the scenes, making strategic moves that affect the balance of power within the imperial court.
Princess Ynez: Sarah-Sofie Boussnina plays Ynez, a young and independent princess who faces the pressures of royal expectations.
Mikaela: Shalom Brune-Franklin portrays Mikaela, a fierce and determined Fremen woman whose loyalty to the royal family is tested as she tries to connect with her desert heritage.
Sister Theodosia: Jade Anouka stars as Theodosia, an ambitious acolyte of the Bene Gesserit. She carries a secret that, if revealed, could threaten everything she has worked for within the sisterhood.
Keiran Atreides: Chris Mason brings to life Keiran, a skilled Swordmaster with a prestigious family name. His quest for honor leads him down a path that intersects unexpectedly with the royal family.
Sister Francesca: Played by Tabu, Francesca is a former lover of the emperor. Her return to the imperial court brings back old tensions and creates new conflicts, threatening the fragile balance of power.
Reverend Mother Kasha: Jihae plays Kasha, a Truthsayer to the emperor.
Who are the creators behind ‘Dune: Prophecy’?
The creative force behind “Dune: Prophecy” includes showrunner Alison Schapker, who’s previous credits include “Westworld” and “Altered Carbon.” Working alongside her is Diane Ademu-John, who co-developed the series and also serves as an executive producer, known for her work on shows like “Empire” and “The Haunting of Bly Manor.”
What time will episodes of ‘Dune: Prophecy’ air on HBO and Max?
“Dune: Prophecy” is scheduled to premiere on HBO and Max on Sunday, Nov. 17 at 9 p.m. ET. The series consists of six episodes, with new episodes airing weekly on Sundays at the same time. The finale is set for Dec. 22, 2024.
Here is the broadcast schedule for “Dune: Prophecy”:
| Release Date | Episode | Episode Title |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday, Nov. 17 | 1 | “The Hidden Hand” |
| Sunday, Nov. 24 | 2 | “Two Wolves” |
| Sunday, Dec. 1 | 3 | “Sisterhood Above All” |
| Sunday, Dec. 8 | 4 | TBA |
| Sunday, Dec. 15 | 5 | TBA |
| Sunday, Dec. 22 | 6 | TBA |
How to stream the ‘Dune’ Movies
If you’re looking to get caught up on the “Dune” franchise ahead of the world debut of “Dune: Prophecy,” you can watch “Dune” and “Dune Part Two” with a subscription to Max. You can also rent or by the original 1984 “Dune” film as well.
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Dune
December 14, 1984In the year 10,191, the most precious substance in the universe is the spice Melange. The spice extends life. The spice expands consciousness. The spice is vital to space travel. The spice exists on only one planet in the entire universe, the vast desert planet Arrakis, also known as Dune. Its native inhabitants, the Fremen, have long held a prophecy that a man would come, a messiah who would lead them to true freedom.
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Dune
September 15, 2021Paul Atreides, a brilliant and gifted young man born into a great destiny beyond his understanding, must travel to the most dangerous planet in the universe to ensure the future of his family and his people. As malevolent forces explode into conflict over the planet’s exclusive supply of the most precious resource in existence-a commodity capable of unlocking humanity’s greatest potential-only those who can conquer their fear will survive.
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Dune: Part Two
February 27, 2024Follow the mythic journey of Paul Atreides as he unites with Chani and the Fremen while on a path of revenge against the conspirators who destroyed his family. Facing a choice between the love of his life and the fate of the known universe, Paul endeavors to prevent a terrible future only he can foresee.
