HBO has provided an update on the Jon Snow spinoff, which is in early development, and it could ultimately be for the best. The Jon Snow spinoff, which would serve as a Game of Thrones sequel, has received a somewhat disappointing update from HBO, but that itself is a good sign for how the network is handling both that show and the franchise in general.
Francesca Orsi, HBO Drama Chief, gave an update on Jon Snow’s spinoff, saying there’s “no determination on whether it can go all the way.” Although a relatively disappointing update, it could be for the best. It’s somewhat surprising that Game of Thrones’ Jon Snow sequel is not a sure thing at HBO, but while that may be disappointing for those hoping it happens, it highlights the network’s smart approach to expanding this franchise.
Given Kit Harington’s return, then building on one of the biggest shows of all time by bringing back its main character (and leading man) seems like an easy win. However, HBO is taking its time and working with writers to crack the story, and it will only happen if they have a project they truly believe in, rather than doing it for the sake of having more Game of Thrones spinoffs. HBO has already been burned once before, with the canceled Long Night prequel costing $30 million according to some reports. That means if the Jon Snow sequel does happen, then it should be genuinely good and worth getting very excited about.
As it stands, while the Jon Snow sequel received a disappointing update, there’s still surely a decent chance it will happen. After all, HBO is actively developing it, and Harington himself wants it to happen, and those things – especially the latter – give it a good advantage. The process of making House of the Dragon also highlights how there’s worth to persisting with an idea if it can just find the right writers. House of the Dragon was almost canceled during its own development, but George R.R. Martin pushed for it and eventually found the right person in Ryan Condal to bring it to the screen.
Ultimately, the Jon Snow sequel should happen if there’s a good story there; luckily, that is also what will seemingly determine if it will happen too.
