HBO‘s highly anticipated fantasy series, House of the Dragon, is set to return for its second season this summer, promising fans an immersive journey into the Targaryen civil war. As the prequel to Game of Thrones, House of the Dragon has captured the audience’s imagination, and the upcoming season is expected to delve deeper into the conflicts between the Blacks and the Greens.
While not directly related to House of the Dragon Season 2, there’s significant news for fans of the series. Milly Alcock, who played young Rhaenyra Targaryen in Season 1, has secured the role of Supergirl in James Gunn’s DC Cinematic Universe reboot. Her departure from House of the Dragon has left fans curious about the fate of her character. As of now, there’s no official confirmation on whether Milly Alcock and Emily Carey, who portrayed young Alicent Hightower, will return for Season 2.
House of the Dragon Season 2 Teaser
The official teaser for House of the Dragon Season 2, released on Dec. 2, provides a glimpse into the intense drama awaiting viewers. The video features a grieving Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen mourning the loss of her son, setting the stage for a fierce battle between the Greens and the Blacks. The ominous words of Princess Rhaenys Targaryen further heighten the anticipation for the upcoming season.
Release Date
According to The Hollywood Reporter, House of the Dragon Season 2 is scheduled to premiere in early summer 2024. HBO CEO Casey Bloys confirmed this release date on Nov. 2, assuring fans that the prequel is on track to meet expectations. Season 2 will consist of eight episodes, two fewer than the previous season.
Number of Episodes in House of the Dragon Season 2
In a departure from the 10-episode format of Season 1, House of the Dragon Season 2 will consist of eight episodes. HBO CEO Casey Bloys confirmed this decision on Nov. 2, 2023. While some speculate it could be a cost-cutting measure, HBO representatives assert that the episode count is driven by the narrative, fueling hopes for a potential Season 3.
House of the Dragon Season 2 Cast
Season 2 introduces several new characters, including Gayle Rankin as Alys Rivers, Simon Russell Beale as Ser Simon Strong, and Freddie Fox as Ser Gwayne Hightower. The ensemble cast boasts a mix of newcomers and returning favorites:
- Emma D’Arcy as Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen
- Matt Smith as Prince Daemon Targaryen
- Olivia Cooke as Queen Alicent Hightower
- Rhys Ifans as Otto Hightower
- Eve Best as Princess Rhaenys Targaryen
- Steve Toussaint as Lord Corlys Velaryon
Additional cast members were revealed on Dec. 2, including Clinton Liberty, Jamie Kenna, Kieran Bew, Tom Bennett, Tom Taylor, and Vincent Regan.
House of the Dragon Season 2 Behind the Scenes
Changes in the show’s leadership are evident as co-showrunner Miguel Sapochnik steps down after Season 1. Ryan Condal remains the sole showrunner, and veteran director Alan Taylor joins Season 2 as an executive producer. Taylor, known for his work on Game of Thrones, brings his expertise to enhance the series.
Filming Locations for House of the Dragon Season 2
Following Season 1’s filming locations across Europe, Season 2 is expected to continue in similar settings, including Cornwall and Hertfordshire, England, Cáceres, Spain, and the Castle of Monsanto in Portugal. Spain is the only confirmed location as of October 2022.
Season 1 Finale Recap
The dramatic Season 1 finale set the stage for the upcoming conflict, with Princess Rhaenyra facing devastating losses and the Targaryens preparing for war. A key character’s demise adds fuel to the already intense rivalry between the Greens and the Blacks, setting the scene for the anticipated Dance of the Dragons.
Where to Watch
For those eager to catch up on the series, House of the Dragon Season 1 is available for streaming on HBO Max. As the premiere of Season 2 approaches, fans can expect even more twists, turns, and dragon-fueled drama in the epic prequel to Game of Thrones.
Related: House Of Dragon prequel about Aegon’s Conquest eyed at HBO