Shadow King actor Said Taghmaoui abruptly leaves Legion cast

FX confirmed to Variety that the role was being recast without explaining the reason behind the decision. Meanwhile, Taghmaoui has tweeted cryptically about his departure.

Taghmaoui, who also starred in 2013's American Hustle, had been cast as the dapper yet menacing Farouk, who, as the Shadow King, had tormented David Haller (Dan Stevens) his entire life. The role was described as a Clark Gable type with “eyes forever hidden behind a pair of ornate sunglasses. He was hip long before there was such an idea. He can seductively hold court on any topic and in any language, but his true passion lies in the singular timeless notion of power and amassing as much of it as possible.” And Taghmaoui, who charmed audiences and Diana, princess of Themyscira earlier this year, certainly seemed to fit the bill.

Production on Legion season two is underway, with the premiere still set for earlyl 2018.