The world of Dune is growing, and Dune: Prophecy is the newest chapter. This time, the story steps back into the deep past, long before Paul Atreides and his rise.
It centers on a group called the Sisterhood, whose quiet strength shapes the path of the future. But before the story unfolds, there’s something else that draws attention: the cast.
From new faces to well-known names, the lineup is full of promise.
Who are these actors? What kind of roles will they take on? This blog takes a look at the people bringing this new Dune tale to life.
What is Dune: Prophecy About?
Dune: Prophecy is a new TV show set in the world of Dune. It takes place about 10,000 years before the story of Paul Atreides.
The show follows the early days of the Bene Gesserit, a secret group of powerful women. They train their minds and bodies to shape the future of the galaxy.
The series focuses on the Harkonnen sisters, Valya and Tula, and their part in starting the Sisterhood. As the galaxy faces change, these women must find their way through power, politics, and danger.
Dune: Prophecy shows how the past shaped the world, as seen in the main Dune books and movies.
Why Was the Name Changed from Dune: The Sisterhood?
When the show was first announced, it was called Dune: The Sisterhood. That name focused on the Bene Gesserit, the group of women at the center of the story.
Later, the title was changed to Dune: Prophecy. This new name still connects to the Sisterhood but offers a broader sense of the show’s themes.
The word “prophecy” points to future plans, hidden truths, and the long history of the Dune universe. The change may also help the show feel more epic and serious.
Even though the name has changed, the story still centers on the same group and time period in Dune history.
Cast and Characters of Dune: Prophecy
The cast of Dune: Prophecy includes a mix of well-known actors and rising stars. Each actor brings something unique to their role, helping to tell the story of how the Sisterhood began. Below is a detailed look at the main characters and the people who play them.
1. Emily Watson as Valya Harkonnen
Image Source: CBR
Emily Watson plays Valya Harkonnen, a powerful figure in the early days of the Sisterhood. She is a founding member of the group that will later become the Bene Gesserit.
Valya is bold, driven, and deeply loyal to her mission. She believes in shaping the future through training, planning, and strong leadership.
Valya’s role in the story is central. She is often seen making hard choices and working to hold the Sisterhood together during times of struggle. Her bond with her sister Tula adds both strength and conflict to the story.
Emily Watson has also starred in powerful films such as Breaking the Waves, Hilary and Jackie, and Chernobyl.
2. Jessica Barden as Young Valya Harkonnen
Image Source: The Mary Sue
Jessica Barden plays the younger version of Valya. In flashbacks, viewers will see how Valya grew into the strong leader she becomes.
These scenes may show her early life on Giedi Prime, her family background, and how she first became involved with the Sisterhood.
Jessica Barden is best known for her lead role in The End of the F**ing World*. She often plays strong but troubled characters and brings real energy and grit to the screen.
3. Olivia Williams as Tula Harkonnen
Image Source: Pressroom
Olivia Williams plays Tula Harkonnen, the sister of Valya. Like her sister, Tula plays an important part in the rise of the Bene Gesserit.
While Valya may lead with force, Tula is expected to take a more careful, thoughtful approach. The way these two sisters work together, and possibly against each other, will shape the future of their order.
Olivia Williams is known for her work in The Sixth Sense, An Education, and The Crown. She brings depth and calm to her characters, which makes her a strong pick for Tula.
4. Emma Canning as Young Tula Harkonnen
Image Source: Reddit
Emma Canning plays young Tula. Her scenes help build the backstory of the Harkonnen sisters. Viewers may see how Tula learns about the Sisterhood and begins her training.
Emma Canning has appeared in series like Clique and The Spanish Princess, showing skill in playing layered, younger versions of complex women.
5. Mark Strong as Emperor Javicco Corrino
Image Source: X
Mark Strong plays Emperor Javicco Corrino, the most powerful man in the Imperium. As emperor, he must maintain order among the noble houses amid growing threats and the rise of the Sisterhood. He sees their power but may not fully understand what they are planning.
Mark Strong is known for playing commanding roles in films like Kingsman, Sherlock Holmes, and 1917. His voice and screen presence help create a ruler who must balance fear and control.
6. Jodhi May as Empress Natalya Corrino
Image Source: Geo News
Jodhi May plays Empress Natalya, the wife of Emperor Javicco and a ruler in her own right. She is wise, calm, and has united many lands through strong leadership. Though not part of the Sisterhood, she may share deep ties with its members.
Jodhi May has acted in The Last of the Mohicans, Gentleman Jack, and Game of Thrones. Her quiet strength and grace make her a perfect choice for a powerful empress.
7. Josh Heuston as Constantine Corrino
Image Source: NZ Herald
Josh Heuston plays Constantine Corrino, son of the emperor and empress. Constantine struggles to earn his father’s respect while finding his own place in the world. His choices may affect the future of the empire and its ties with the Sisterhood.
Josh Heuston is a rising star, having appeared in Heartbreak High and other Australian TV shows. His youth and drive make him a great fit for a royal heir under pressure.
8. Sarah-Sofie Boussnina as Princess Ynez
Image Source: Screen Rant
Sarah-Sofie Boussnina plays Princess Ynez Corrino, another child of the imperial family. She faces the pressures of duty and high expectations. As the Sisterhood grows in influence, Ynez may have to choose between family loyalty and her personal path.
Sarah-Sofie has starred in The Bridge, Knightfall, and Department Q. She brings a sense of dignity and emotion that fits Ynez’s character well.
9. Chris Mason as Keiran Atreides
Image Source: CBR
Chris Mason plays Keiran Atreides, a fighter and nobleman from House Atreides. His family will one day be central to the Dune saga, but here he is still carving out a place for himself. He works for House Corrino but may have his own goals.
Chris Mason has been seen in Riverdale, Broadchurch, and Pretty Little Liars: The Perfectionists. His roles often show inner conflict, which fits Keiran’s journey.
10. Travis Fimmel as Desmond Hart
Image Source: Nerdist
Travis Fimmel plays Desmond Hart, a soldier with a dark past and unclear future. He may work for the Empire or against it, depending on what he gains. Desmond brings tension into the Sisterhood’s world, and his motives may surprise viewers.
Fimmel is best known for his role as Ragnar in Vikings. He also appeared in Raised by Wolves. His mix of charm and edge makes him ideal for a mysterious and dangerous man.
11. Shalom Brune-Franklin as Mikaela
Image Source: Yahoo
Shalom Brune-Franklin plays Mikaela, a woman with ties to the Fremen. She serves the royal family but may long for freedom and the truth about her past. Mikaela’s journey could show a different side of the Imperium, far from its palaces and power.
Shalom has starred in Line of Duty, The Tourist, and Great Expectations. Her roles show strength and quiet courage, just right for someone caught between two worlds.
12. Jade Anouka as Sister Theodosia
Image Source: Screen Rant
Jade Anouka plays Sister Theodosia, a smart and bold trainee in the Sisterhood. She is ambitious and hides secrets about her past. Her story may include betrayal, growth, or even leadership.
Jade is known for His Dark Materials and Cleaning Up. She brings focus and emotion to her roles.
13. Chloe Lea as Sister Lila
Image Source: Collider
Chloe Lea plays Sister Lila, a younger acolyte of the Sisterhood. She is kind, curious, and brave. She may show what it’s like to grow up in the order and learn its hidden ways.
Chloe has appeared in The Dumping Ground and The Bay. Her youthful energy is great for a character just starting her journey.
14. Faoileann Cunningham as Sister Jen
Image Source: Nerdist
Sister Jen is playful, sharp, and unpredictable. Faoileann Cunningham brings this new Sisterhood member to life with heart and humor. Jen may challenge the group’s rules and surprise others with her actions.
Faoileann has worked on stage and screen, bringing freshness to every role.
15. Aoife Hinds as Sister Emeline
Image Source: Radio Times
Aoife Hinds plays Sister Emeline, a strong believer in the Sisterhood’s teachings. She follows the rules closely and works to keep the group united.
Her faith in the cause may help or hurt her, depending on the story’s turns. Aoife has acted in Normal People and Derry Girls. She has a quiet but firm presence that fits this role.
16. Edward Davis as Harrow Harkonnen
Image Source: Screen Rant
Edward Davis plays Harrow, a noble of House Harkonnen. He wants to restore his house’s name and find power in the empire. His actions could create conflict or alliances.
Edward has appeared in Emma (2020) and Carmen. He often plays serious and thoughtful roles.
17. Mark Addy as Evgeny Harkonnen
Image Source: Screen Rant
Mark Addy plays Evgeny, Valya, and Tula’s uncle. He supports his nieces and tries to guide them in a dangerous world. He adds wisdom and family ties to the story.
Mark Addy is known for The Full Monty, A Knight’s Tale, and Game of Thrones (as Robert Baratheon). His warm yet bold style fits this mentor role well.
Supporting Characters in Dune: Prophecy
In addition to the main cast, Dune: Prophecy features a range of supporting characters who help build the world around the Sisterhood, the Imperium, and the noble houses.
| Actor | Character Name | Role/Description |
|---|---|---|
| Tabu | Sister Francesca | A devoted Sisterhood leader with deep spiritual roots and strong beliefs. |
| Jana McKinnon | Sister Dorotea | A young Sister who may be involved in training or early rituals of the order. |
| Yerin Ha | Sister Kasha Jinjo | A loyal and thoughtful Sister, possibly linked to ancient knowledge or records. |
| Charithra Chandran | Young Francesca | The younger version of Sister Francesca, shown in flashbacks. |
| Sarah Lam | Truthsayer | A woman trained to detect lies, a key figure in political scenes. |
| Clara Biasiol | Acolyte (unnamed) | A young trainee in the Sisterhood, still learning the ways of the order. |
| Tina Jung | Sister Avila | A guide or teacher within the Sisterhood, trusted with helping train new members. |
| Amanda Gea | Noblewoman from Giedi Prime | A member of House Harkonnen’s inner circle, showing the family’s early influence. |
| Edward Harrison | Corrino Court Noble | A royal advisor or statesman working under Emperor Corrino’s rule. |
| Jodie Tyler | Sisterhood Servant | A supporting figure who helps with rituals or daily life within the Sisterhood base. |
Production and Behind-the-Scenes Facts
Dune: Prophecy went through several changes before reaching the screen. From title updates to shifts in the creative team, here are a few key behind-the-scenes facts.
- The series was first announced in 2019 under the title Dune: The Sisterhood.
- It was developed as a prequel to Denis Villeneuve’s Dune films.
- Diane Ademu-John was the original showrunner but stepped down during development.
- Alison Schapker later took over as the main showrunner.
- Director Johan Renck (Chernobyl) was attached early but left the project after creative differences.
- Filming took place mainly in Budapest, Hungary.
- The show was filmed using the same visual style as the recent Dune films.
- Production was delayed by the writers’ and actors’ strikes in 2023.
- The series was renamed Dune: Prophecy in early 2024 before its release.
- Season 1 includes six episodes and premiered on November 17, 2024.
- It streams on Max (formerly HBO Max).
- A second season is in development as of early 2026, with filming expected to begin later this year.
Wrapping Up
Dune: Prophecy brings new voices and faces to a world that has always been full of mystery and power.
The cast does more than act; they help build the early roots of a story fans know well. With rich characters and strong roles, the show offers something worth watching closely.
It’s not just about action or drama, it’s about the start of something bigger. As the Sisterhood rises, so does the tension across the galaxy.
More twists are likely ahead in future seasons. Curious to learn more as the series grows? Stay tuned and share this guide with others who love the world of Dune.
