Emma D'Arcy and Matt Smith have shared new insights into Rhaenyra and Daemon Targaryen's major turning point following the events of House of the Dragon Season 3, Episode 2. Warning: This article contains spoilers for House of the Dragon Season 3, Episode 2.
The episode opens with Rhaenyra learning of the death of her son and heir, Jace Targaryen, during the Battle of the Gullet. Speaking to Variety, D'Arcy described the devastating moment as one of the most difficult scenes they filmed this season.
Rhaenyra's Insurmountable Loss
“I think the truth is, for Rhaenyra, it’s an insurmountable loss, and it’s a reality that is too terrible to reckon with,” D'Arcy said. “So the first feeling, the first instinct, is sort of utter denial and to try to push back against that dawning terrible reality. It was a hard day at work.”
D'Arcy revealed the sequence involving Harry Collett, who plays Jace, was the only scene they “dreaded shooting” this season and praised the actor for giving them space before filming. “We didn’t really speak in the morning,” D'Arcy recalled, adding that Collett later approached them during lunch and offered support if needed.
Taking the Red Keep
The episode concludes with Rhaenyra and Daemon successfully taking control of the Red Keep. However, their victory comes after Otto Hightower is executed, leaving Alicent Hightower to confront the aftermath upon arriving before Rhaenyra on the Iron Throne.
According to D'Arcy, Rhaenyra continues to value Alicent’s opinion despite the conflict between them. “Rhaenyra still perceives Alicent as her judge and jury,” they said. “Ultimately, I still think that Rhaenyra craves Alicent’s affirmation.”
D'Arcy also explained that Rhaenyra’s decision to execute Otto was tied to proving herself as a ruler. “I think Rhaenyra has had a two-season-long battle with both colleagues and subjects to be recognized and respected as a potential ruling queen,” they said. “Whether or not that’s a line that she should have crossed, morally and ethically... is for audiences to determine.”
Returning to the Red Keep
For Smith, returning to film inside the Red Keep after much of Season 2 was a welcome change. “It was interesting… having not really been back on that set,” Smith said. “It was a bit like returning home.”
D'Arcy agreed, saying the Red Keep remains “the sort of locus of power,” adding that after spending much of last season on the Dragonstone set, “it’s nice to be back at the heart of things.”
Daemon's Potential Regret
Smith also hinted that Daemon’s decision to reject Alys Rivers’ request for Harrenhal could have consequences later in the season. Asked whether Daemon may regret that choice, he replied, “So yeah, most probably.”
