{
  "id": 15314635,
  "title": "Game of Thrones Prequel The Mad King Officially Returns in 2027",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/18/game-of-thrones-prequel-the-mad-king-officially-returns-in-2027",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-10-18T00:44:23.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Polygon",
    "slug": "polygon",
    "url": "https://www.polygon.com/game-of-thrones-the-mad-king-prequel-2027-return/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Royal Shakespeare Company's sold-out stage production of Game of Thrones: The Mad King concluded in Stratford-upon-Avon in September, but the prequel to George R.R. Martin's Game of Thrones series is set to return to the stage in London in 2027. Martin revealed the news on his blog, expressing delight at the production's performance in Stratford-upon-Avon and the decision to expand its reach to London, although specific venue and date details have yet to be announced. The London production, directed by Dominic Cooke and written by Duncan Macmillan, focuses on events leading up to Robert's Rebellion, with the jousting tournament at Harrenhal being a central element. Notable characters from the series, such as Ned Stark, Robert Baratheon, Lyanna Stark, and Rhaegar Targaryen, will be portrayed in their younger years, along with the infamous Mad King. The romantic subplot between Rhaegar and Lyanna, which ultimately results in the birth of Jon Snow, is at the core of the story. Critics have praised the production, describing it as a magnificent piece of Shakespearean art, separate from its connection to the TV series. Fans of the show and theater enthusiasts alike will eagerly await information about the London production when it becomes available.",
  "summary": "George R.R. Martin has confirmed Game of Thrones: The Mad King will get a new London production in 2027 following its sold-out theatrical run.",
  "key_points": [
    "Game of Thrones prequel \"The Mad King\" to return to London in 2027",
    "Directed by Dominic Cooke, written by Duncan Macmillan",
    "Focuses on events leading to Robert's Rebellion, featuring young characters"
  ],
  "editors_take": "Expanding this Shakespearean stage production to London signals a successful transition for the franchise from television screens to high-profile theatrical venues.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}