Dune: Prophecy Casts Legendary Indian Actress

Dune: Prophecy just cast its first major role.

Celebrated Indian actress Tabu has signed up for a recurring role in the Max prequel series, which takes place in the Dune universe 10,000 years before the rise of Paul Atreides.

According to Variety, “Tabu will recur in the role of Sister Francesca. The character is described as ‘Strong, intelligent, and alluring, Sister Francesca leaves a lasting impression in her wake. Once a great love of the Emperor, her return to the palace strains the balance of power in the capital.’”

Tabu is best-known to Western audiences for her role in 2012 drama Life of Pi. However she’s an icon in India, having won two National Film Awards for best actress. One was for Maachis, and the other was for Chandni Bar. She has also received seven Filmfare Awards.

Dune: Prophecy was first commissioned in 2019 under the title Dune: The Sisterhood. It’s based on one particular novel by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson: 2012’s Sisterhood of Dune.

According to the official synopsis: “Set within the expansive universe of ‘Dune,’ created by acclaimed author Frank Herbert, and 10,000 years before the ascension of Paul Atreides, ‘Dune: Prophecy’ follows two Harkonnen sisters as they combat forces that threaten the future of humankind, and establish the fabled sect that will become known as the Bene Gesserit.”

Dune: Prophecy does not yet have a release date. On the other hand, Dune: Part Two gets a new digital release date.