“His Dark Materials” is an upcoming British fantasy series that has gained high expectations from fans all over the world, thanks to its star-studded cast and its popular source material. It was also confirmed that it has already been ordered for season 2 way before the pilot episode actually goes on the air.
“His Dark Materials” is based on the same title novel series written by Philip Pullman. BBC heads the production, but the network also inked a deal with HBO to air the show in other countries.
The production of “His Dark Materials” season 1 most likely started in the middle of 2018, shortly after the names of several cast members were reported. It possibly ended in the last quarter of 2018. Lin-Manuel Miranda, who plays the skilled balloonist Lee Scoresby from Texas, confirmed he completed filming his parts last October.
“His Dark Materials” season 2 was announced by no less than BBC director general Tony Hall while appearing at a government hearing last September. He confirmed that the British public service broadcaster will certainly produce two installments of the show and noted, “The cost per episode is high – it’s really ambitious.” Seasons 1 and 2 are slated to have eight episodes each.
It is then very likely that the eight episodes airing this year will be based on “Northern Lights” while “His Dark Materials” season 2 could cover the events from the second book “The Subtle Knife.” There are two main protagonists in the entire trilogy: Lyra Belacqua (Dafne Keen) and Will Parry. However, the latter was only introduced in the second book, which explains why Will is not mentioned in any reports and TV listings.
Other than Keen and Miranda, actors James McAvoy, Clarke Peters, and Ruth Wilson are cast members who are also playing main characters in the series. They will be portraying the roles of the aristocrat Lord Asriel, Dr. Crane, and the main villain Marisa Coulter, respectively.
BBC has yet to announce a specific release date for “His Dark Materials” season 1, though, it is anticipated to premiere in late 2019. However, this makes it hard to predict when season 2 will arrive.
