Before Paul Atreides’ alliance with the Fremen and before House Harkonnen’s reign over Arrakis, two sisters founded the secret society and grew it to become one of the most influential powers in the galaxy. Journey back to the inception of the Bene Gesserit in HBO’s new series “Dune: Prophecy.” The sisterhood of sorceresses has its eyes on the throne, and they will do everything in their power to protect their interests and ensure the survival of the Imperium.
The new HBO series will premiere on November 17, 2024. Below, we’ll highlight everything you need to know about “Dune: Prophecy” before it airs. Plus, we’ll explain how to make sure you’re using safe, legal streaming options to enjoy each episode.
Everything You Need To Know About Dune: Prophecy
The modern cultural phenomenon surrounding the inhospitable planet Arrakis and its infamous spice was created by author Frank Herbert in his 1965 novel, “Dune.” Though not immediately popular in terms of book sales, today, the novel has sold over 20 million copies and has been translated into 20 languages.
Between 1969 and 1985, Frank Herbert went on to write five sequels: “Dune Messiah,” “Children of Dune,” “God Emperor of Dune,” “Heretics of Dune,” and “Chapterhouse: Dune.” Following his death in 1986, his son Brian Herbert took up the mantle with author Kevin J. Anderson, and the two have since written over a dozen prequels and sequels, including the 2012 novel “Sisterhood of Dune,” of which the new “Dune: Prophecy” series is based upon.
About the Dune Film & TV Series Franchise
The first Dune novel was adapted into a major motion picture in 1984 directed by David Lynch and starring Kyle MacLachlan as Paul Atreides and Sting as Feyd Rautha. Various other interpretations were developed in 2000, 2003, and most recently, “Dune: Part One” and “Dune: Part Two” in 2021 and 2024, respectively — both directed by Denis Villeneuve.
Villeneuve’s films follow Paul Atreides and his family, House Atreides, as they take control of the desert planet Arrakis and the source of the invaluable spice, melange. Betrayed by the former rulers, House Harkonnen, Paul and his mother, Lady Jessica, flee into the desert, where they meet the native Fremen. In time, Paul begins to realize and embrace his destiny as the Lisan al Gaib, the prophesied messiah of the Fremen. As he rises in power, Paul prepares for war while grappling with his growing influence and the weight of his destiny, all while maintaining his ties to his mother and the Fremen, including his love, Chani.
When is the New Series Set Within the Dune Timeline?
HBO’s new series, “Dune: Prophecy” is set 10,000 years before the events of Denis Villeneuve’s franchise but will follow a similar style and cinematography as the films.
The Plot of Dune: Prophecy
Ten thousand years before the time of Paul Atreides, sisters Valya and Tula Harkonnen found what they claim is an unassuming school for girls. Their intent, however, is something far different: a planetary web of influence, obedience, and power that could rival the great houses and the Imperium itself. With the throne within reach, Valya and Tula will do anything necessary to secure their place in power and ensure the survival of their sisterhood.
Release Date & Episode Count
“Dune: Prophecy” will premiere on Sunday, November 17, 2024, at 9:00 PM ET on HBO and Max. The six-episode season will air new installments every Sunday.
Dune: Prophecy Official Trailer
See inside the secret sect of sorceresses known as the Bene Gesserit in the latest trailer of “Dune: Prophecy.” HBO and Max have previously released a teaser trailer and initial trailer for the all-new series.
Cast & Crew
Emily Watson and Olivia Williams lead the cast of “Dune: Prophecy” as the Harkonnen sisters, Valya and Tula. Both born in England, the pair have made a tremendous impact in Hollywood with nearly 150 credits between them.
Check out the other outstanding members of the cast below:
- Emily Watson: Valya Harkonnen
- Olivia Williams: Tula Harkonnen
- Travis Fimmel: Desmond Hart
- Jodhi May: Empress Natalya
- Mark Strong: Emperor Javicco Corrino
- Sarah-Sofie Boussnina: Princess Ynez
- Josh Heuston: Constantine Corrino
- Jade Anouka: Sister Theodosia
- Aoife Hinds: Sister Emeline
- Chris Mason: Keiran Atreides
- Shalom Brune-Franklin: Mikaela
- Tabu: Sister Francesca
The crew includes:
- Showrunner: Alison Schapker
- Directors: Anna Foerster, John Cameron, Richard J. Lewis
- Executive Producers: Kor Adana, Diane Ademu-John, Scott Z. Burns, John Cameron, Brian Herbert, Kim Herbert, Matt King, Byron Merritt, Alison Schapker, Mark Tobey
- Cinematographers: Pierre Gill, Richard Donnelly, Nikolaus Summerer
- Composer: Volker Bertelmann
- Production Companies: Legendary Television, Warner Bros. Television
How To Stream Dune: Prophecy
“Dune: Prophecy” will air on HBO and can be streamed on Max on Sunday, November 17, at 9:00 PM ET. Subsequent episodes will air each Sunday after that.
You may come across streaming sites that claim to offer free or discounted access to the new Dune series, but don’t trust them. “Dune: Prophecy” is exclusive to HBO and Max. Be sure to look out for the signs of illegal platforms and avoid the risks of digital piracy.