‘Westworld’ Season 3 Release Date Update: It’s Official — Series Arrives 2020; Premieres Close to ‘Game of Thrones’ Prequel?

Since the second season of “Westworld” concluded last year, many fans were hoping that there would be less delay in the future that could have meant “Westworld” season 3 would be released this year. However, it has been confirmed recently that it will not be the case.

Collider was the first to report that HBO already made it official — “Westworld” season 3 will not premiere until 2020. While this could be a little bit disappointing to some fans, the news is not entirely shocking. As mentioned in previous reports, there were several indications that the producers and writers would take more time in writing the third installment, which meant another prolonged hiatus for the show.

The same report also pointed out that “Westworld” season 3 could be one of HBO’s flagship shows next year. There is also the possibility that it would premiere close to another highly anticipated HBO project, the first prequel of “Game of Thrones.”

Meanwhile, there were reports that filming of “Westworld” season 3 has commenced in March. However, CBR recently claimed that the supposed springtime beginning of production has been delayed due to the destruction caused by the California wildfires to some of the show’s Wild West-themed set in November 2018.

“Westworld” season 3 is highly expected to open with an all-new plot with Dolores (Evan Rachel Wood) and other hosts breaking into the real world. Aside from Wood, other cast members are confirmed to reprise their roles in the next installment including Thandie Newton, Jeffrey Wright, Ed Harris, and Tessa Thompson among others.

Jimmi Simpson, who plays Young William, told the Wrap in February that he has not been invited yet to join the filming of “Westworld” season 3. But he also explained that his character is likely “less of a focus” in the upcoming episodes. Given that Dolores is carrying out her plans in the real world while the Park will most likely going to get rebuild, it can be easily understood why there would be fewer scenes in 2020 with Young William in it.