Game of Thrones Recast Daario Naharis in Season 4: What Changed Behind the Scenes

A new actor in season four

Daario Naharis debuted in the show’s third season, played by Ed Skrein. After three episodes, Michiel Huisman took over the role in season 4, prompting confusion among some viewers.

Daario pledged loyalty to Daenerys Targaryen after meeting her and joined her through several conquests. Their romance later ended when he stayed in Meereen to help maintain peace. He appeared in four of the show’s eight seasons.

Skrein’s account of the split

Skrein did not explain what he meant by “political.” HBO and the show’s creative team also did not comment, so the reasons behind the departure remain unclear. The article describes the split as possibly involving an unresolved disagreement, but does not establish what happened.

A different Daario on screen

The change was visible: Skrein’s Daario had long hair, while Huisman’s had short hair and a beard. Their portrayals also differed. Skrein played him as a more roguish, risky romantic figure; Huisman’s version came across as more devoted to Daenerys and less likely to challenge her.

Both actors’ portrayals were described as differing from Daario’s appearance in George R.R. Martin’s novels. The account ends before detailing that comparison, and says the character’s role in the television adaptation largely depends on his relationship with Daenerys.