Why Game of Thrones Recast Daario Naharis in Season 4
2024/02/07

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In the world of Game of Thrones, recasting is not uncommon. However, one such recasting stood out as the most dramatic change in the series – the replacement of Ed Skrein with Michiel Huisman in the role of Daario Naharis. The character of Daario first appeared in season 3 and became more prominent in season 4.

Before Huisman took over, Skrein portrayed Daario for three episodes, which left the audience confused when the change occurred. Unlike other recastings in the series, there were no in-universe reasons for this switch. Huisman's portrayal of Daario brought him into the forefront of the series as one of Daenerys Targaryen's key allies and eventual lover.

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Alongside Grey Worm and Jorah Mormont, Daario pledged his allegiance to Daenerys and played a vital role in her conquest of the cities of Yunkai and Meereen. However, when Daenerys set her sights on Westeros, she left Daario behind, and he was never seen again. The truth behind the recasting of Daario Naharis remains a mystery even years after the series ended.

So why was Skrein replaced? Early reports suggested that Skrein left the show to star in another movie. However, Skrein revealed in an interview that there were "political" reasons behind the change rather than purely professional ones. He expressed his desire to stay with Game of Thrones for the long haul but implied that conflicts led to their parting ways.

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The recasting decision came as a surprise, considering Skrein's plan to play Daario until the character's final scenes in season 6. It seems that creative decisions or contract disputes prompted the producers to make the change.

Huisman's portrayal of Daario differed significantly from Skrein's, as evident from his distinct appearance. Skrein had long hair and a fresh face, while Huisman donned short hair and a brooding, bearded look. Nevertheless, Huisman's Daario became a prominent figure in Daenerys' storyline.

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Daario Naharis was not the only character to undergo recasting in Game of Thrones. Myrcella and Tommen Baratheon, Leaf, Dickon Tarly, and Rickard Karstark, among others, all saw new actors replacing the original ones. The recasts of The Mountain and the Night King were also notable, although less visible due to heavy prosthetics and lack of dialogue.

As for future spinoffs, it remains uncertain if Daario Naharis will return. HBO has multiple Game of Thrones spinoffs in development, and while some take place in the same era, the fate of certain characters is unknown. Daario's story could potentially be explored in the upcoming book, The Winds of Winter.

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Both Skrein and Huisman have continued their acting careers since leaving Game of Thrones, with various film and television roles. Skrein appeared in movies like Deadpool and If Beale Street Could Talk, while Huisman joined the cast of The House on Haunted Hill and The Flight Attendant.

In summary, the recasting of Daario Naharis in Game of Thrones was a significant change that surprised the audience. The reasons behind the change remain undisclosed, adding to the mystery. However, both actors have moved on to successful careers since their time on the show. As for whether Daario will make a return in a future spinoff, only time will tell.

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