House of the Dragon Characters Guide: Who’s Who in the Game of Thrones Prequel

Daemon Targaryen (Matt Smith)

As the younger brother of Viserys I — and first-in-line to the Iron Throne before Rhaenyra’s birth — the elusive Daemon Targaryen is a crucial figure in the Targaryen Civil War. Matt Smith’s latest television role is one of the Targaryens’ greatest warriors, who served as Commander of the City Watch of King’s Landing prior to House of the Dragon’s beginning. His slick charisma and wit is reminiscent of Game of Thrones’ infamous Tyrion Lannister, and has made him friends and enemies all over the Realm. When Rhaenyra bumps him down a slot in the line for heir, however, his sudden fall from power may remind viewers more of Jon Snow — an underdog of Westeros who fought for the kingdom anyway. While Daemon might back Rhaenyra’s claim to the throne in House of the Dragon, there’s no way to tell which side this slippery soldier is really on — or what plans he has brewing behind the scenes.

Alicent Hightower (Olivia Cooke)

The second wife of King Viserys and mother of Aegon II, the mysterious Alicent Hightower may not seem like the biggest threat to the Iron Throne. But she might just be hiding something up her elegant sleeves. Alicent arrived at King’s Landing at the age of 15 after her father Otto Hightower was appointed “Hand of the King,” or the king’s closest advisor, and was married to Viserys three years later. She may have grown up in the heart of the Targaryen court, but make no mistake: Alicent’s main goal is to champion the House of Hightower. And having her son Aegon sit on the throne might just be the perfect way to do it. 

For the first few years of her marriage to Viserys, Alicent got along with her stepdaughter Rhaenyra. But years of learning political intrigue at King’s Landing have made it clear to both that there is only room for one most powerful woman in the realm. Alicent, like Rhaenyra, has been a pawn in the Targaryens’ schemes since her arrival at court. But as alliances fracture and Alicent and Rhaenyra are pitted against each other, look for Alicent to make big moves.

Our Guide to the House of the Dragon characters continues…

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