House of the Dragon stars Emma D’Arcy and Matt Smith have opened up about one of the biggest moments in the latest episode and what it means for Rhaenyra and Daemon moving forward.
The episode starts with Rhaenyra receiving heartbreaking news that her son and heir, Jace Targaryen, has been killed in the Battle of the Gullet.
While speaking to Variety, D’Arcy said that filming the scene was emotionally difficult.
“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.
They added, “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 also praised Harry Collett, who plays Jace, saying that he gave them space quietly before filming and later checked in to make sure they were okay.
By the end of the episode, Rhaenyra and Daemon finally take control of the Red Keep after Otto Hightower is executed.
Even after everything that has happened, D’Arcy, however, believe Rhaenyra still wants Alicent’s approval. “Rhaenyra still perceives Alicent as her judge and jury,” they explained.
Matt Smith also said returning to film inside the Red Keep after spending so much time away felt special.
“It was a bit like returning home,” he said.
2026-06-29 17:52:00
