‘Game of Thrones’ Prequel Adds Five More Series Regulars

By Joe Otterson

LOS ANGELES (Variety.com) – The “Game of Thrones” prequel pilot at HBO is beefing up its cast.

Marquis Rodriquez, John Simm, Richard McCabe, John Heffernan, and Dixie Egerickx have all been cast in series regular roles. As with all things “,” the exact nature of the characters each will be playing is being kept under tight wraps.

Rodriguez will next be seen starring in the Netflix miniseries “When They See Us” from director Ava DuVernay, which is based on the true story of the Central Park Five. He also had a role in the Marvel-Netflix shows “Luke Cage” and “Iron Fist.” He is repped by Paradigm, Sinclair Management, and Jackoway Tyerman.

Simm’s previous television credits include “Collateral,” “Doctor Who,” The Catch,” “Life on Mars, and “The Canterbury Tales.” He is repped by Independent Talent Group.

McCabe has appeared in shows such as “Philip K. Dick’s Electric Dreams,” “Harlots,” “Collateral,” and “Peaky Blinders.” He is repped by Conway van Gelder Grant Ltd.

Heffernan’s TV credits include “Dracula,” “Brexit,” “Collateral,” “The Crown,” and “Luther.” He is repped by Independent Talent Group.

Egerickx recently wrapped on “The Secret Garden” and previously appeared in the films “Summerland” and “The Little Stranger.” She is repped by in the UK by A&J Management and in the US by Megan Silverman Management and Stone Genow.

The five join previously announced cast members Naomi Watts, Josh Whitehouse, Naomi Ackie, Denise Gough, Jamie Campbell Bower, Sheila Atim, Ivanno Jeremiah, Georgie Henley, Alex Sharp, Toby Regbo, and Miranda Richardson.

Taking place thousands of years before the events of “Game of Thrones,” the new show chronicles the world’s descent from the golden Age of Heroes into its darkest hour. And only one thing is for sure: from the horrifying secrets of Westeros’ history to the true origin of the white walkers, the mysteries of the East to the Starks of legend–it’s not the story we think we know.

Jane Goldman co-created the project with George R.R. Martin, whose “A Song of Ice and Fire” novel series serves as the basis for “Game of Thrones.” Goldman and Martin wrote the story, with Goldman writing the teleplay. She will also serve as showrunner. She and Martin will executive produce along with SJ Clarkson, Daniel Zelman, James Farrell, Jim Danger Gray, and “Game of Thrones” executive producer Vince Gerardis. Chris Symes will co-executive produce. Clarkson will also direct the pilot.

The news comes as “Game of Thrones” prepares to launch its highly-anticipated eighth and final season on April 14.

(Pictured: Marquis Rodriquez, left; Richard McCabe, center; Dixie Egerickx, right)