, the and prequel series to Denis Villeneuve’s film saga, has made its debut this week. One character from the sci-fi show, set 10,000 years before Paul Atreides (Timothee Chalamet) rises to power, is already causing a stir among fans.
The series draws inspiration from Brian Herbert and Kevin J Anderson’s novel, Sisterhood of Dune, and is set in the expansive Dune universe originally crafted by renowned author Frank Herbert. The new Max and Legendary Television show, which has drawn numerous comparisons to , features a star-studded cast including Emily Watson, Mark Strong, Chris Mason, Emma Canning, Josh Heuston and Sarah-Sofie Boussnina.
However, it’s actor Travis Fimmel who has quickly caught fans’ eyes with his portrayal of Desmond Hart. The plot follows Harkonnen sisters Valya (Emily Watson) and Tula (Olivia Williams), as they battle forces threatening humanity’s future, and establish the legendary sect known as the Bene Gesserit.
The first episode of the new series has already ignited considerable fan reaction on social media due to a shocking and violent twist – with Desmond at the centre of it all. In the series, we are introduced to the soldier early in the first episode, when he meets with Emperor Corrino (Mark Strong) after surviving an attack on Arrakis.
Desmond’s storied military past was highlighted on the latest episode of Arrakis, marking an incredible 12 tours before his return to Salusa Secundus. He stands as the lone survivor of his regiment, with his comrades meeting a tragic end, reports .
Travis Fimmel stars in Vikings (Image: HISTORY CHANNEL)
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The episode also unveils a significant secret about Desmond, though details will remain under wraps to avoid spoilers.
Before venturing into the sandy landscapes of the Dune prequel series, Travis was best known for portraying the fierce Ragnar Lothbrok in the hit show Vikings from 2013 to 2017.
Apart from wielding swords as Ragnar, Travis has tackled roles such as the warrior Anduin Lothar in Warcraft’s live-action film and playing the character Marcus in Raised by Wolves.
Dune: Prophecy made its debut this week (Image: SKY/HBO)
Fans took to their social media fix on X, the platform formerly recognised as , to sing praises about the enigmatic Desmond, touting him as potentially “the most interesting character” on the series.
Echoing sentiments of Travis’ iconic Vikings persona, a fan enthused: “Space Ragnar is definitely the most interesting character in Dune.”
Another posted: “Desmond Hart. I’m liking this character is all. The ending of episode 1 [shocked emoji].”
Travis Fimmel plays Desmond Hart in Dune: Prophecy (Image: SKY/HBO)
Joking about Travis’ transition from Norse legend to space adventurer, another remarked: “When Ragnar enters Dune Prophecy as Desmond Hart [smirking emoji].”
Excitement escalated among viewers as one exclaimed: “MY GOAT IS HERE.” (sic) While anticipation builds with another who “can’t wait” for the full reveal on Desmond’s background.
Travis shared some insights into his mystique role, hinting at an unusual ability with , claiming: “It’s something different that you haven’t seen on other shows. He can hurt people physically without actually touching them.”
He elaborated: “Desmond’s got a certain goal, and something he’s very driven by to achieve and he’ll use a lot of violence to achieve that goal, and he thinks it’s justified in doing so.
“But at the same time, it really hurts him when he hurts other people physically. It hurts him physically and emotionally but he still sort of enjoys it. He won’t stop doing it.”
Dune: Prophecy is set to be the thrilling prequel series to the 2021 blockbuster Dune and its upcoming sequel, Dune: Part Two, slated for release in 2024.
The star-studded cast includes Timothee Chalamet, Zendaya, Austin Butler, Javier Bardem, Christopher Walken, Florence Pugh, Lea Seydoux, Rebecca Ferguson, and Stellan Skarsgard.
The epic saga of the Dune films chronicles the journey of Paul Atreides as he navigates the treacherous terrain of Arrakis, a planet with scarce resources, after his father assumes control there.
Amidst the harsh desert landscape, Paul is tasked with securing the destiny of his lineage and his people, amidst burgeoning conflicts over the planet’s exclusive substance ‘spice’ – the most valuable material in the cosmos.
Dune: Prophecy airs Mondays at 2am in the UK, exclusively on Sky Atlantic and NOW. This coincides with its 9pm ET/6pm PT airdate in the US, where you can watch it on HBO or Max.