Game of Thrones star Pilou Asbæk has officially joined the sci-fi series, taking on the role of Warlord, also known as The Mule, for Season 3. This news, confirmed by TVLine, marks a significant casting change as Asbæk replaces Mikael Persbrandt, who briefly portrayed the character in Season 2.
Asbæk steps into the series as a regular alongside a talented ensemble cast, including Cherry Jones from Succession as Foundation Ambassador Quent, Synnøve Karlsen from Bodies and Medici, and Cody Fern from American Horror Story as Bayta and Toran Mallow, respectively. Their characters, newlyweds in the books, embark on a quest to locate the Second Foundation in an effort to thwart The Mule’s plans. Additionally, Brandon P. Bell of Dear White People fame portrays Han Pritcher, a loyal follower of The Mule.
Further enriching the cast are Tómas Lemarquis, known for Bladerunner 2049, as Magnifico Giganticus, a fugitive and former court jester to The Mule; Yootha Wong-Loi-Sing, recognized for Really Love and Love Is, as Song; and Leo Bill from Becoming Elizabeth as Terminus’ Mayor Indbur, adding depth to the series’ ensemble.
The Mule, a formidable Mentalic character with ambitions of galactic conquest, was previously portrayed by Persbrandt in Season 2, where he appeared in Gaal’s vision, wreaking havoc upon the Foundation. In a shocking turn of events, Salvor, originally intended to be slain by The Mule, was instead assassinated in the Season 2 finale by a child Mentalic under Tellem’s control. The Mule resurfaces 152 years later, determined to exact vengeance upon Gaal.
Reflecting on the upcoming season, series co-creator David S. Goyer teased the impact of The Mule’s character, stating, “When Asimov created [the Mule], it was a character that flipped the whole table over.” Goyer emphasized that Season 3 would escalate the series’ intensity, promising even greater twists and turns than its predecessor.
With Asbæk’s addition and the introduction of other compelling characters, Season 3 of the series promises to deliver an electrifying narrative that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. As the saga unfolds, viewers can expect an immersive journey into a future where power, ambition, and destiny collide in spectacular fashion.