HBO and BBC One have begun production on season 3 of His Dark Materials.

The eight-episode season will adapt The Amber Spyglass, the third novel in Philip Pullman’s award-winning trilogy. The first novel, The Golden Compass, had been adapted prior to the series. However, this will mark the first time The Amber Spyglass has made it to screen.

Production begins at Wolf Studios in Wales, and on location throughout Wales and England.

“The moment we started season one of His Dark Materials, we had mapped out all three novels to know the direction in which where we were heading,” said executive producer Dan McCulloch. “Every detail and character within this incredible work of fiction has been analysed and discussed for four years now, and to finally arrive in the many worlds of The Amber Spyglass is thrilling.” 

Season three of His Dark Materials will see Will (Amir Wilson), the bearer of The Subtle Knife, and Lyra (Dafne Keen), the prophesied child, travel through multiple worlds to find and protect each other.

“It has been a joy watching audiences embrace this incredible journey of self-discovery, friendship and purpose with Lyra over the past two seasons,” said Francesca Orsi, EVP of HBO Programming. “I cannot wait for the fans to get a front row seat to all that is in store in this gripping and poignant final chapter.”

In addition to Keen and Wilson reprising their roles as Lyra and Will, the returning cast for season 3 includes Ruth Wilson as Mrs. Coulter; Simone Kirby as Mary Malone; Will Keen as Father President McPhail; Jade Anouka as Ruta Skadi; Ruta Gedminstas as Serafina Pekkala; and James McAvoy as Lord Asriel.

HBO did not announce a projected release date for season 3, so check back to THS for more updates.

Until then, drop your season 3 predictions in the comments. Which parts of The Amber Spyglass are you most excited to see on screen?

Source: HBO