When Game of Thrones fans first met Daario Naharis in Season 3, he was portrayed by actor Ed Skrein. However, by Season 4, the role had been recast, and Michiel Huisman took over as the charming and deadly sellsword. This sudden switch left many viewers wondering: Why was Daario Naharis recast? What happened behind the scenes? And how did this change affect the character’s storyline?
In this in-depth blog, we’ll explore the reasons behind the Daario Naharis actor change, what happened to the character after Game of Thrones, and where you can see both actors in other roles. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering the show, this breakdown will give you all the answers.
Who is Daario Naharis?
Daario Naharis is a key character in Game of Thrones, introduced as the confident and skilled leader of the Second Sons, a group of mercenaries hired to fight in the war. Instead of staying loyal to his employers, Daario betrays them and pledges allegiance to Daenerys Targaryen. He quickly becomes one of her most trusted warriors and also her lover.
With his deadly fighting skills, smooth-talking charm, and unwavering loyalty to Daenerys, Daario plays an important role in her conquest of cities like Yunkai and Meereen. His presence adds both strength and romance to her storyline, making him a fan-favorite character.
Why Was Daario Naharis Recast?
One of the biggest mysteries surrounding Game of Thrones was the unexpected recasting of Daario Naharis. After Ed Skrein’s portrayal in Season 3, fans were surprised to see Michiel Huisman take over the role in Season 4.
So, why did the showrunners make this change? The truth is, there were two main reasons:
1. Scheduling Conflicts
Ed Skrein was reportedly offered a major opportunity in Hollywood around the same time Game of Thrones was moving into its fourth season. He later starred in The Transporter Refueled (2015) and played the villain Ajax in Deadpool (2016). Some reports suggest that he left Game of Thrones to pursue these bigger roles.
However, Skrein has mentioned in interviews that it wasn’t entirely his decision to leave. While he didn’t go into detail, it seems like the producers wanted to take Daario’s character in a different direction, leading to the casting change.
2. A New Look for the Character
When Ed Skrein played Daario in Season 3, he had a unique appearance—long blond hair and a flamboyant, colorful outfit. This was closer to how Daario was described in George R.R. Martin’s books.
However, in Season 4, the character’s look changed dramatically. Michiel Huisman’s version had short brown hair, a beard, and a more rugged style. This shift made Daario seem more serious and battle-hardened, rather than the flashy and romantic sellsword from the books.
Some fans preferred Skrein’s portrayal, while others felt that Huisman brought more depth to the role. Regardless, the switch was permanent, and Huisman played Daario for the rest of the series.
What Happened to Daario Naharis in Game of Thrones?
Daario was deeply loyal to Daenerys, standing by her side as she conquered Meereen and built her army. However, his fate took an unexpected turn in Season 6.
Daario Naharis’ Last Appearance
In the Season 6 finale, after Daenerys finally sets sail for Westeros, she decides to leave Daario behind in Meereen. She orders him to stay and maintain peace in the city while she focuses on claiming the Iron Throne. This decision breaks Daario’s heart, as he truly loved her and wanted to continue fighting by her side.
Although Daario protests, Daenerys makes it clear that she needs to form political alliances, which means she cannot have a lover by her side. This marks the end of Daario’s journey in the show, as he is never seen or mentioned again in later seasons.
Did Daario Naharis Die?
One big question that fans still ask is: What happened to Daario Naharis after Season 6? Did he die?
The show never confirms his fate, but since he was left in charge of Meereen, it’s likely that he survived and continued ruling the city in Daenerys’ absence.
In George R.R. Martin’s books, Daario’s fate is still unknown, as the story hasn’t reached the same point as the TV series. There’s a chance that if Martin ever finishes A Song of Ice and Fire, we may get a different conclusion for Daario’s character.
Where Else Can You See Ed Skrein and Michiel Huisman?
Both actors who played Daario Naharis have gone on to have successful careers in movies and TV shows. Here’s where you can watch them:
Ed Skrein’s Movies and TV Shows
- Deadpool (2016) – Played the villain Ajax, the main antagonist in Ryan Reynolds’ Deadpool.
- The Transporter Refueled (2015) – Took over the lead role from Jason Statham.
- Alita: Battle Angel (2019) – Played the cyborg villain Zapan.
- Midway (2019) – Starred in this World War II action movie.
- Rebel Moon (2023) – A major role in Zack Snyder’s new sci-fi film.
Michiel Huisman’s Movies and TV Shows
- The Haunting of Hill House (2018) – Played Steven Crain in the hit Netflix horror series.
- The Age of Adaline (2015) – Starred opposite Blake Lively as her love interest.
- World War Z (2013) – Appeared alongside Brad Pitt.
- The Flight Attendant (2020-2022) – Played Alex Sokolov in this HBO thriller.
- Echo 3 (2022) – Starred in this action-packed Apple TV+ series.
Both actors have taken on a wide range of roles, proving their talent beyond Game of Thrones.
Also read : – Jack Reacher Season 2 Cast: Everything You Need to Know
Why the Daario Naharis Actor Change Still Matters
Even years after Game of Thrones ended, the Daario Naharis recast remains one of the most talked-about changes in the series. Some fans preferred Ed Skrein’s original portrayal, while others liked Michiel Huisman’s more grounded performance.
This recast also highlights how unpredictable the entertainment industry can be. Sometimes, actors leave due to scheduling conflicts, creative decisions, or behind-the-scenes changes. Regardless of the reasons, both actors left their mark on the role, and Daario remains one of the most memorable characters in Game of Thrones.
Final Thoughts
The switch from Ed Skrein to Michiel Huisman as Daario Naharis was a big change for Game of Thrones fans, but both actors brought something unique to the character. While Skrein had a more flashy and charismatic portrayal, Huisman’s version was more rugged and serious.
Daario’s storyline may have ended in Season 6, but his impact on Daenerys’ journey was undeniable. Fans may never know what happened to him after he was left in Meereen, but his presence in the series remains a major part of Game of Thrones history.
Whether you’re rewatching the show or following the careers of Ed Skrein and Michiel Huisman, the story of Daario Naharis is one that continues to captivate fans.