Miguel Sapochnik, co-showrunner of House of the Dragon, has left the show.

Spochnik’s departure comes as he signs a new first-look deal with HBO.

Though House of the Dragon reportedly had HBO’s biggest premiere ever and has already been renewed for a second season, co-showrunner Miguel Sapochnik is preparing to leave the series for his next big thing.

Sapochnik is leaving House of the Dragon just as he has signed a new first-look development deal with HBO that will give the network priority consideration for whatever projects he begins developing next, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Sapochnik will remain an executive producer on House of the Dragon, alongside newcomer Alan Taylor, who will also serve as an executive producer and direct episodes in the series’ second season. Sapochnik stated in a statement about his departure that it had been a “honour and a privilege” to work on the series and expressed faith in Alan Taylor’s ability to make House of the Dragon an even stronger show.

“I am so proud of what we accomplished with season one, and I am overjoyed by our viewers’ enthusiastic response,” Sapochnik said. “It was extremely difficult to make the decision to leave, but I know it is the best decision for me, both personally and professionally.” However, knowing that Alan will be joining the series gives me great comfort. I’ve known and respected him for a long time, and I believe this priceless series could not be in better hands.”