Dune: Prophecy concluded its first season on HBO, set 10,000 years before the events of the Dune films. The prequel expands Denis Villeneuve’s cinematic universe by exploring the early days of the Bene Gesserit. Loosely based on Dune Sisterhood by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson, the series introduces original storylines while resolving many arcs by the finale. Season 1 focuses on the political and mystical maneuvers of the Sisterhood as they begin implementing their secret genetic breeding plan across the Imperium.
Valya’s Journey to Arrakis Uncovers Secrets, Protects Ynez, Challenges Omnius Plague Threats
Emily Watson stars as Valya Harkonnen, who leads the Sisterhood with ambitions to consolidate power. Season 1 ends with Valya setting off to Arrakis alongside Princess Ynez and Keiran Atreides. Her mission centers on uncovering the identity of the mastermind behind Desmond Hart’s transformation and the Omnius Plague threat. Valya’s inclusion of Ynez ensures the Sisterhood’s strategic influence over the Imperium, while Keiran reluctantly joins to protect Ynez, despite distrusting the Harkonnen family.
Travis Fimmel as Desmond Hart (Dune: Prophecy (2025)/Warner Bros. Television)Desmond Hart, revealed as the son of Tula Harkonnen and Orry Atreides, becomes a key figure due to a Thinking Machine implant that enables him to spread a fear-activated Omnius Plague. His past involves being swallowed by a sandworm on Arrakis, which triggers his new abilities. While season 1 clarifies much about Desmond, the identity of the unknown figure orchestrating his mission remains uncertain. Speculation points to a human antagonist or a remnant of the Thinking Machines seeking revenge on the Sisterhood.
Tula’s Sacrifice, Sisterhood Mutiny, and the Imperium’s Power Struggle After Javicco’s Death
Desmond confronts his mother, Tula Harkonnen, arresting her despite their brief reunion. Tula had sent him away to protect him from becoming a tool of the Sisterhood. Meanwhile, the Sisterhood faces internal challenges: Dorotea, channeled through Lila, leads a mutiny against Valya and destroys banned technology controlled by Raquella. Tula’s loyalty is tested, showing her willingness to challenge Valya to protect her child, highlighting the moral and political complexity within the organization.
The death of Emperor Javicco Corrino leaves the Imperium’s leadership in question. His legitimate heir, Ynez, is missing, leaving the path open for either Prince Constantine Corrino or Empress Natalya to assert control. Political rivalries are expected as Constantine commands the fleet while Natalya, having eliminated potential obstacles, could attempt to claim authority. The power vacuum sets up significant conflict for the next season, especially given Valya and Ynez’s strategic disappearance.
HBO has confirmed Dune: Prophecy for a second season, continuing the exploration of the Bene Gesserit, political intrigue, and the origins of key characters. Co-creators and producers have expressed interest in expanding the series, aligning it with the broader Dune universe and building anticipation for Dune: Part 3. Season 2 promises to delve deeper into unresolved mysteries, the threats posed by Desmond Hart, and the shifting dynamics of power across the Imperium.
