Jon Spaihts Is Already Writing A ‘Dune’ Sequel Screenplay

Following his departure as showrunner from “Dune: Sisterhood,” a “Dune” spinoff for HBO MAX, Jon Spaihts has now joined on as a screenwriter for the sequel of director Denis Villeneuve’s “Dune.” Collider’s most recent in-depth examination of the writer’s move proves that Frank Herbert’s vision inherent within his classic science fiction novels remains untarnished.

Spaihts helped Villeneuve on his upcoming adaption, which is primed for a December 2020 release. The main protagonist, Paul Atreides, will be portrayed by Timothée Chalamet. He will be joined by a variety of well-known stars, such as Oscar Isaac, Josh Brolin, Javier Bardem, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Dave Bautista, and Jason Momoa.

The science-fiction classic penned by Herbert in 1965 remains a staple of the genre. Having won the 1966 Hugo Award in addition to the Nebula Award for Best Novel, “Dune” speaks for itself. Much like Isaac Asimov’s “Foundation” novel series, “Dune” encapsulates millennia of history into one cohesive narrative, oftentimes simply called the Duniverse. “Dune” itself has been adapted into various different forms of media, from trading cards and video games to movies and even a TV miniseries.

The extensive history that surrounds “Dune” evidences the fact that it has a devout following, one whose fanbase is passionate when it comes to specific adaptations. As is revealed in an exclusive with The Hollywood Reporter, Spaihts’s departure from “Dune: Sisterhood” was, in part, due to differences in direction with Legendary TV. His first draft of the female-led “Dune” spinoff was immediately shot down by Legendary TV, leading Spaihts to walk off the project in order to work on Villeneuve’s potential sequel.

Villeneuve and Spaiht’s upcoming “Dune” will follow Atreides as the character is tasked with protecting one of the universe’s most rare and sacred artifacts, found only on the planet of Arrakis. While “Dune 2” may not even be greenlit yet, excitement still stirs as a modern reimagining of the classic science fiction novel of Herbert’s finds life once more.

Villeneuve’s “Dune” reboot rises from the sands of time on Dec. 18, 2020.