Last summer, “Game of Thrones” unexpectedly replaced Ed Skrein for the upcoming fourth season, with Michael Huisman stepping into Skrein’s role as Daario Naharis, an ally and potential lover to Daenerys Targaryen (Emilia Clarke). “Game of Thrones” fans have yet to see how Huisman’s portrayal of Daario will play on screen, but the executive producers are apparently very happy with him.
According to Deadline, Huisman has been promoted to series regular for “Game of Thrones” Season 5 well ahead of the official pickup. While Deadline notes that HBO hasn’t officially renewed “Game of Thrones” yet, no one seriously expects the premium network to pull the plug on one of its most popular shows any time soon. If HBO follows the pattern of previous seasons, it will wait for “Game of Thrones” to score an early surge in the ratings before making the announcement for season 5.
Huisman is no stranger to HBO, having previously co-starred on “Treme.” Huisman also had a recurring role on “Nashville” and a part in World War Z.
HBO has yet to set a specific date for the fourth season premiere of “Game of Thrones,” but it’s expected to be back on the network in late March or early April.