The actor Matt Smith of “House of the Dragon” talks about Daemon Targaryen and what drives him going ahead. The first Game of Thrones spinoff in eight years, “House of the Dragon,” made its HBO Max debut on August 21. Paddy Considine, Milly Alcock, Emily Carey, Rhys Ifans, Steve Toussaint, Eve Best, Sonoya Mizuno, and Graham McTavish also appear in the series together with Smith.
The civil war of House Targaryen, popularly known as the Dance of Dragons, is covered in “House of the Dragon,” which takes place more than 160 years before the events of Game of Thrones. The struggle is set in motion in the first episode, when Prince Daemon Targaryen (Smith) seeks to succeed his older brother King Viserys I (Considine), who chooses to name his daughter Rhaenyra (Alcock) as his heir. The conflict between Daemon and Viserys will probably influence the early episodes of “House of the Dragon.”
Smith discusses the reasons behind Daemon’s actions in the first few episodes of the show in an interview with The New York Times. According to him, Daemon is more driven by the games and manipulation that come with having power than by actual power itself. He claims that Daemon is more interested in the hindrance of power than the actual exercise of power. See his words below:
I enjoyed that because Daemon’s petulance, that sort of chaotic dropping of little bombs on purpose … It’s almost like he really isn’t even interested in power. Lots of people ask that: “Is it power? Is it the throne?” It’s not. I think it’s essentially the obstruction of power. That was a good energy to have.
Power struggles are just as crucial to Game of Thrones’ identity as dragons and savage murder, and all three make prominent appearances in the spinoff. Should Daemon come to King’s Landing, “House of the Dragon” has already highlighted their bond, which he will probably use to influence Rhaenyra’s status as the heir apparent. According to Smith’s quotation, Daemon will use every means at his disposal to try to obstruct Rhaenyra’s performance of her duties as the next in line to the throne.
“House of the Dragon” created a good first impression in its first episode, despite having a long way to go, with its dramatic stakes, stunning production design, and outstanding performances, especially Smith’s. Smith has already established himself as a fan favorite after receiving his most lucrative role since his final appearance as the Doctor in Doctor Who in 2014. Daemon is the “House of the Dragon” character to watch, and maybe Smith’s interpretation can compete with Pete Dinklage or Emilia Clarke from Game of Thrones.
New “House Of The Dragon” Image: Matt Smith In Full Targaryen Armor