House of the Dragon season 2 cast: Full list of characters for new episodes

Season 2 picks up shortly after the end of season 1, which saw Dowager Queen Alicent Hightower (Olivia Cooke) ignore the wishes of her late husband, King Viserys I Targaryen (Paddy Considine) and crown their son King Aegon II Targaryen (Tom Glynn-Carney) over his named successor, Viserys's eldest child Queen Rhaenyra I Targaryen (Emma D'Arcy).

The new episodes see an all-out war unfold between Rhaenyra’s Black faction – in which she’s joined by Daemon, their children, and Velaryon relatives – and Aegon’s Greens – which consists primarily of Alicent and her children, Ser Criston Cole (Fabien Frankel) and the Hightower relatives.

Here is your guide to the cast of House of the Dragon, which iconic characters they portray from George RR Martin's books, and whether they're Team Black or Team Green.

House of the Dragon season 2 cast: Full list of characters for new episodes

House of the Dragon burned through a lot of actors in its first season, with numerous characters either being killed off or aged up over the course of 10 episodes.

However, the following members of the House of the Dragon cast are confirmed for the second season.

• Matt Smith as King Consort Daemon Targaryen
• Emma D'Arcy as Queen Rhaenyra I Targaryen
• Olivia Cooke as Dowager Queen Alicent Hightower
• Rhys Ifans as Ser Otto Hightower
• Steve Toussaint as Lord Corlys Velaryon
• Eve Best as Princess Rhaenys Targaryen
• Fabien Frankel as Lord Commander Ser Criston Cole
• Sonoya Mizuno as Mysaria
• Matthew Needham as Lord Larys Strong
• Tom Glynn-Carney as King Aegon II Targaryen
• Ewan Mitchell as Prince Regent Aemond Targaryen
• Phia Saban as Queen Helaena Targaryen
• Harry Collett as Prince Jacaerys Velaryon
• Bethany Antonia as Lady Baela Targaryen
• Phoebe Campbell as Lady Rhaena Targaryen
• Jefferson Hall as Lord Jason Lannister and Ser Tyland Lannister
• Kurt Egyiawan as Grand Maester Orwyle
• Kieran Bew as Hugh Hammer
• Abubakar Salim as Alyn of Hull
• Tom Taylor as Lord Cregan Stark
• Clinton Liberty as Addam of Hull
• Freddie Fox as Ser Gwayne Hightower
• Gayle Rankin as Alys Rivers
• Tom Bennett as Ulf White
• Ellora Torchia as Kat Hammer
• and Sir Simon Russell Beale as Ser Simon Strong

We can also expect the following new faces to join the fray...

• Oscar Eskinkanzi as Prince Joffrey Velaryon - The third son of Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen.
• Jamie Kenna as Ser Alfred Broome - In the book Fire and Blood, Ser Alfred is a knight sworn to serve House Targaryen.
• Vincent Regan as Ser Rickard Thorne - In the book Fire and Blood, Ser Rickard is a member of the Kingsguard and sides with King Aegon II Targaryen in the Civil War.
• Amanda Collin as Lady Jeyne Arryn - The Lady of the Eyrie and the Wardenness of the East, Lady Arryn is courted by Rhaenyra to be an ally.
• Sam C. Wilson as Blood - A mercenary who completes a dark task under orders from Prince Daemon Targaryen.
• Mark Stobbart as Cheese - A mercenary who completes a dark task under orders from Prince Daemon Targaryen.

We have more information on the main cast of House of the Dragon below.

Matt Smith plays King Consort Daemon Targaryen

Who is King Consort Daemon Targaryen? Daemon is the younger brother of King Viserys, who is formidable in battle but held back by his impulsive and, at times, reckless behaviour. Therefore, while he is technically the heir to the Iron Throne – as Viserys does not have a legitimate son – there is a strong feeling among many lords in Westeros that he should not be allowed to rule. He is often dubbed "The Rogue Prince".

At the start of the series, Daemon is in a loveless marriage to Lady Rhea Royce of Runestone and has a paramour in the form of prostitute and dancer Mysaria. After the death of Lady Rhea, Daemon goes on to marry Lady Laena Velaryon and has two daughters: Lady Baela and Lady Rhaena.

Following the death of Lady Laena Velaryon, Daemon goes on to marry his niece Rhaenyra and the pair have two children together, Prince Aegon the Younger and Prince Viserys.

Upon the death of his brother King Viserys, Daemon violently backs his wife's claim to the throne, but does he do this for her or himself?

What else has Matt Smith been in? Smith is probably best known for his stint as The Eleventh Doctor on the BBC's long-running sci-fi drama Doctor Who, during which time he also made cameos in The Sarah Jane Adventures and An Adventure in Space and Time. After leaving the role, Smith portrayed a young Prince Philip on Netflix's royal drama The Crown, while he has also taken film roles in Terminator Genisys, His House, Last Night in Soho and Morbius.

Emma D'Arcy plays Queen Rhaenyra I Targaryen

Who is Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen? Rhaenyra is the daughter of King Viserys, who hopes to become the first queen of the Seven Kingdoms when her father's reign ends. However, tradition dictates that only a male may rule, so it could prove difficult to get the Lords of Westeros to back this idea. Rhaenyra begins the series as a close friend of Lady Alicent Hightower, but the politics of the day will test their friendship.

As the second season begins, Rhaenyra is crowned Queen of the Seven Kingdoms, but many question her claim, and lives are lost in the conflict that follows.

The role in her younger years is played by Milly Alcock.

What else has Emma D'Arcy been in? D'Arcy starred opposite Toni Collette in the BBC/Netflix co-production Wanderlust, before taking later roles in ITV's Wild Bill as well as Prime Video originals Hanna and Truth Seekers. On the big screen, they are known for British dramas Misbehaviour and Mothering Sunday.

What else has Milly Alcock been in? The Australian actress has appeared in Janet King, A Place to Call Home, Fighting Season, Pine Gap, Les Norton, The Gloaming, and Reckoning.

Olivia Cooke plays Dowager Queen Alicent Hightower

Who is Dowager Queen Alicent Hightower? Lady Alicent is the daughter of Ser Otto Hightower. With her father serving as Hand to the King, she has spent much of her life in the royal household, during which time she developed a strong friendship with Princess Rhaenyra. However, that bond will be tested in the years to come and as the game of thrones grows more and more brutal, perhaps Alicent has the determination to win it. As Queen Consort of the Seven Kingdoms, Alicent is the mother of Prince Aegon, Princess Helaena and Prince Aemond.

Upon the death of King Viserys, Alicent moves to install her son Aegon as King and seeks to preserve his place on the throne.

The role in her younger years is played by Emily Carey.

What else has Olivia Cooke been in? Cooke's breakthrough performance came in Psycho prequel Bates Motel, where she played a childhood friend of the troubled Norman Bates. She later bagged film roles in horror films The Quiet Ones, Ouija and The Limehouse Golem, as well as Steven Spielberg blockbuster Ready Player One and Riz Ahmed's awards contender The Sound of Metal. She also appeared in the first season of Apple TV+ spy thriller Slow Horses as Sid Baker.

What else has Emily Carey been in? Carey is best known for her roles as Grace Beauchamp in Casualty and in the BBC/Netflix series Get Even.

Rhys Ifans plays Ser Otto Hightower

Who is Ser Otto Hightower? Ser Otto holds the powerful appointed role of Hand of the King, serving as the closest adviser to Viserys and having the authority to make decisions in his name. He has a strong dislike of the King's brother, Daemon, and aims to keep him out of power by any means necessary. Ser Otto is also willing to use his daughter Alicent in his games.

When he successfully installs his grandson Aegon on the Iron Throne following Viserys's death, Ser Otto finds that his style of politics is too passive for Aegon's liking...

What else has Rhys Ifans been in? Ifans is known for his film work in Notting Hill, Kevin & Perry Go Large, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1 and Alice Through The Looking Glass. Marvel fans will know him as the supervillain Lizard, who first appeared in 2012's The Amazing Spider-Man and returned in last year's smash-hit No Way Home. On the small screen, he played Mycroft Holmes in the US drama Elementary and Gubby in Sky's Temple.

Steve Toussaint plays Lord Corlys Velaryon

Who is Lord Corlys Velaryon? Lord Corlys is the leader of the powerful and wealthy House Velaryon, whose legendary seafaring has resulted in him being known across Westeros as the "Sea Snake". House Velaryon is as old as House Targaryen and they have been joined in marriage through Corlys' union with Princess Rhaenys Targaryen. Lord Corlys is the Lord of the Driftmark and the Master of Ships on the Small Council for King Viserys.

As the Dance of the Dragons breaks out, Lord Corlys aligns himself with the Blacks - supporting Queen Rhaenyra.

What else has Steve Toussaint been in? Toussaint has recently appeared in critically acclaimed dramas It's A Sin and Small Axe: Red White and Blue, with earlier projects including Our Girl, Death in Paradise, Lewis and Scott & Bailey.

Eve Best plays Princess Rhaenys Targaryen

Who is Princess Rhaenys Targaryen? Princess Rhaenys is the cousin of Viserys and Daemon, who married the wealthy adventurer Lord Corlys Velaryon. She has twice been in line for the throne, but on both occasions, she has been passed over in favour of a man, earning her the moniker of 'The Queen Who Never Was'. However, Princess Rhaenys has some insights for a young Princess Rhaenyra. Rhaenys is also the mother of Ser Laenor Velaryon and Lady Laena Velaryon, both of whom she is willing to use in forging new alliances through marriages.

As the Dance of Dragons breaks out, the Queen Who Never Was sides with Queen Rhaenyra.

What else has Eve Best been in? Best is known for playing Dr Eleanor O'Hara in the first five seasons of the US drama Nurse Jackie, while she later appeared opposite Maggie Gyllenhaal in the acclaimed miniseries The Honourable Woman. Most recently, she played headmistress Farah Dowling in Netflix's Fate: The Winx Saga. On the big screen, viewers may recognise her from a supporting role in Best Picture winner The King's Speech.

Fabien Frankel plays Lord Commander Ser Criston Cole

Who is Ser Criston Cole? Ser Criston is a skilled swordsman from the Dornish Marches and the bastard son of the steward to the Lord of Blackhaven. Criston's prowess with a sword earns him great fame and advancement in King's Landing and leads to him catching the eye of both young Princess Rhaenyra and Alicent Hightower. However, as Ser Criston advances into being selected as one of the Kingsuard, it should be noted that such a role requires chastity, loyalty and honour. Will Ser Criston stay true to his vows?

As the Dance of Dragons breaks out, Ser Criston rises through the ranks and is firmly on Team Green.

What else has Fabien Frankel been in? Frankel played Dominique Renelleau in true crime drama The Serpent, starring Jenna Coleman.

Sonoya Mizuno plays Mysaria

Who is Mysaria? Mysaria is a former dancer and prostitute who has risen from her beginnings as a victim of slavery and trafficking to become Prince Daemon Targaryen's most trusted ally and paramour. At the conclusion of the first episode, Prince Daemon departs King's Landing on the back of his dragon Caraxes with Mysaria. After the end of their romance, Mysaria takes up a new line of work as a spymaster in King's Landing and is dubbed the "White Worm". In the second season, Mysaria becomes an advisor and confidante to Queen Rhaenyra.

What else has Sonoya Mizuno been in? Mizuno is known for her collaborations with writer-director Alex Garland, having appeared in films Ex Machina, Annihilation and Civil War, as well as the miniseries Devs. She has also appeared in Netflix cult favourite Maniac along with major box office hits La La Land, Beauty and the Beast, and Crazy Rich Asians.

Matthew Needham plays Lord Larys Strong

Who is Lord Larys Strong? Larys is the second son of Lord Lyonel Strong and the younger brother of Ser Harwin Strong. A shrewd observer, Larys ingratiates himself with Queen Alicent's circle and soon shows his ambitions when he acts out. Later, Larys becomes the Lord of Harrenhal and the Master of Whisperers on the Small Council.

What else has Matthew Needham been in? Needham has appeared in the television series Endeavour and Sherlock in guest roles, as well as the film The Ritual.

Tom Glynn-Carney plays King Aegon II Targaryen

Who is Prince Aegon Targaryen? The eldest son of King Viserys I Targaryen from his marriage to Queen Alicent Hightower. A lustful prince, Aegon comes to accept the power that his mother craves for him. Aegon is a dragonrider and his mount is the dragon Sunfyre. As an adult, Aegon is married to his sister Helaena and they have children together. After his father's death, Aegon is crowned King on the Iron Throne.

Ty Tennant plays the role of a younger Aegon.

What else has Ty Tennant been in? Tennant has had roles in Doom Patrol, War of the Worlds, and Tolkien.

What else has Tom Glynn-Carney been in? Glynn-Carney has had roles in the films Dunkirk, The King and Tolkien, whilst also having television roles in The Last Post, Domina, and SAS: Rogue Heroes.

Ewan Mitchell plays Prince Regent Aemond Targaryen

Who is Prince Aemond Targaryen? The second son of King Viserys I Targaryen and Queen Alicent Hightower. Aemond longs for a dragon of his own and is obsessed with obtaining one, eventually gaining the large dragon Vhagar but loses an eye in a clash with Prince Lucerys Velaryon. Aemond grows up to be a capable warrior and politician and believes he is best suited to rule on the Iron Throne.

What else has Ewan Mitchell been in? Mitchell is best known for his role as Osferth in The Last Kingdom but has also had roles in Trigger Point, World on Fire, and The Halycon.

Leo Ashton plays a young Prince Aemond Targaryen.

Phia Saban plays Queen Helaena Targaryen

Who is Princess Helaena Targaryen? The daughter of King Viserys I Targaryen and Queen Alicent Hightower, Princess Helaena is a thoughtful and gentle figure in King's Landing. Helaena is a dragonrider and her mount is Dreamfyre. As an adult, Helaena continues to speak in prophecies and marries her brother Aegon, having his children and later his Queen Consort.

What else has Phia Saban been in? Phia Saban has also starred in the historical drama The Last Kingdom.

Evie Allen portrays a young Princess Helaena Targaryen.

Harry Collet plays Prince Jacaerys Velaryon

Who is Prince Jacaerys Velaryon? The eldest son and heir of Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen and, officially, Ser Laenor Velaryon. Suspected to be the bastard son of Ser Harwin Strong. Jacaerys is nicknamed "Jace". A dragonrider, Jacaerys' mount is the dragon Vermax. Upon his mother's ascension to the throne, Jacaerys is named Prince of Dragonstone.

What else has Harry Collet been in? Collet is best known for his role in Casualty as Oliver Hide and a role in the film Dolittle.

Leo Hart portrays a young Prince Jacaerys Velaryon.

Bethany Antonia plays Lady Baela Targaryen

Who is Lady Baela Targaryen?The daughter of Prince Daemon Targaryen and Lady Laena Velaryon. Baela is a dragonrider and her mount is Moondancer. As an adult, Baela is betrothed to her step-brother Prince Jacaerys Velaryon.

What else has Bethany Antonia been in? Antonia has appeared in two Netflix series, Get Even and Stay Close.

Shani Smethurst portrays a young Lady Baela Targaryen.

Phoebe Campbell plays Lady Rhaena Targaryen

Who is Lady Rhaena Targaryen? The daughter of Prince Daemon Targaryen and Lady Laena Velaryon. Rhaena longs for a dragon of her own. As an adult, Rhaena is betrothed to her step-brother Prince Lucerys Velaryon.

What else has Phoebe Campbell been in? Campbell has had roles in Midsomer Murders, Home from Home, and The Last Dragonslayer.

Eva Ossei-Gerning portrays a young Lady Baela Targaryen.

Jefferson Hall plays Lord Jason Lannister and Ser Tyland Lannister

Who is Lord Jason Lannister? The Lord of Casterly Rock and the Warden of the West; a wealthy aristocrat.

Who is Ser Tyland Lannister? The twin brother of Lord Jason and a cunning politician on the Small Council who later serves as Master of Ships for King Viserys and then as Master of Coin for King Aegon II.

What else has Jefferson Hall been in? Hall has starred in Wizards vs Aliens, Vikings, Taboo, Silent Witness, Devs, and the 2018 film Halloween.

Kurt Egyiawan plays Grand Maester Orwyle

Who is Grand Maester Orwyle? The Grand Maester who served under and replaced Grand Maester Mellos, Orwyle sits on the Small Council.

What else has Kurt Egyiawan been in? Egyiawan has also appeared in Skyfall, Pan, The Exorcist TV series and Slow Horses.

Abubakar Salim plays Alyn of Hull

Who is Alyn of Hull? A sailor in the Velaryon fleet, Alyn saved the life of Lord Corlys Velaryon in the Stepstones and reunited with his master on Driftmark. Later episodes reveal that he and his brother Addam are bastard sons of Lord Corlys.

What else has Abubakar Salim been in? Salim is known for his voice-over work in the video game Assassin's Creed Origins and has also starred in the series Jamestown, the HBO Max series Raised By Wolves, Fortitude and the film Napoleon.

Tom Taylor as Lord Cregan Stark

Who is Lord Cregan Stark? Lord Stark is the young Lord of Winterfell and Warden of the North, whom Prince Jacaerys Velaryon approaches regarding an alliance with the latter's mother, Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen.

What else has Tom Taylor been in? The British actor is known for roles in The Dark Tower, Doctor Foster, drama Us, the ITV crime drama, The Bay, and Close to Me.

Kieran Bew plays Hugh Hammer

Who is Hugh Hammer? A blacksmith who lives in King's Landing but begins to feel the impact of House Velaryon's trade blockade on the city on his life. Hugh is later revealed to be a bastard son of Princess Saera Targaryen, the wayward aunt of King Viserys I Targaryen and his brother Daemon. Hugh takes Vermithor as his dragon after he is encouraged to claim a dragon by Queen Rhaenyra.

What else has Kieran Bew been in? An English actor, Kieran Bew has starred in the series Warrior, Da Vinci's Demons, Hans Christian Andersen: My Life as a Fairytale, and Jimmy McGovern's BAFTA Award-winning The Street.

Ellora Torchia plays Kat Hammer

Who is Kat Hammer? The wife of Hugh Hammer struggles with poverty in King's Landing and pushes her husband to leave the city to stay with her brother in Tumbleton.

What else has Ellora Torchia been in? Rising star Ellora Torchia has starred in the films In the Earth, Les Cowboys, Midsommar, and Ali & Ava.

Freddie Fox plays Ser Gwayne Hightower

Who is Ser Gwayne Hightower? The son of Ser Otto Hightower and the brother of Dowager Queen Alicent Hightower who is called into the conflict of the Dance of Dragons.

What else has Freddie Fox been in? A member of the Fox acting dynasty, Freddie has appeared in various stage works, along with television series Worried About the Boy, Cucumber, Banana, and White House Farm, and the films The Three Musketeers (2011), The Riot Club, Pride, Victor Frankenstein, King Arthur: Legend of the Sword, Black '47, and Fanny Lye Deliver'd.

Sir Simon Russell Beale plays Ser Simon Strong

Who is Ser Simon Strong? The brother of Lord Lyonel Strong and the uncle of Lord Larys Strong, Ser Simon resides at Harrenhal.

What else has Sir Simon Russell Beale been in? A renowned Shakespearean actor of stage and screen, Sir Simon has received two BAFTA Awards, three Olivier Awards, and a Tony Award. Beale's screen roles include Orlando, Persuasion, Hamlet, My Week with Marilyn, The Deep Blue Sea, The Death of Stalin, Mary Queen of Scots, Benediction, and The Outfit.

Clinton Liberty plays Addam of Hull

Who is Addam of Hull? The younger brother of Alyn of Hull and a fellow sailor who resides on Driftmark and stands to benefit from Lord Corlys's favour. Addam is the bastard son of Lord Corlys and becomes a dragonrider of the beast Seasmoke.

What else has Clinton Liberty been in? An Irish actor, Clinton Liberty is best known for his role in the series Holding.

Gayle Rankin plays Alys Rivers

Who is Alys Rivers? A mysterious woman who resides at Harrnehal in the service of House Strong but appears to dabble in dark arts.

What else has Gayle Rankin been in? A Scottish actress, Rankin is best known for her roles in Netflix series GLOW and HBO drama Perry Mason, along with film parts in The Greatest Showman, Her Smell, Blow the Man Down, and The Climb.

Tom Bennett as Ulf White

Who is Ulf White? A man living in King's Landing who claims to be of Valyrian descent and who will play a role in the conflict to come.

What else has Tom Bennett been in? A British actor, Bennett is best known for his roles in the film Love & Friendship and the Netflix series After Life.

Paul Kennedy plays Lord Jasper Wylde/"Ironrod"

Who is Lord Jasper Wylde? The Lord of the Rain House and Head of House Wylde, known as "Ironrod". A member of the Small Council serving as Master of Laws and who is loyal to the Greens.

What else has Paul Kennedy been in? Kennedy has also appeared in Renegades, Marcella, Death and Nightingales, and The Frankenstein Chronicles.

Phil Daniels plays Maester Gerardys

Who is Maester Gerardys? One of the maesters of the Citadel in Oldtown who now serves Queen Rhaenyra I Targaryen.

What else has Phil Daniels been in? Phil Daniels is best known for his iconic lead role in the film Quadrophenia and also for his turn as Kevin Wicks in EastEnders. Daniels has also appeared in The Class of Miss MacMichael, Breaking Glass, New Tricks and Rock & Chips.

Luke Tittensor plays Ser Arryk Cargyll

Who is Ser Arryk Cargyll? A knight of the Kinsguard who serves in King's Landing alongside his identical twin brother, Ser Erryk. Ser Arryk sides with the Greens in the civil war.

What else has Luke Tittensor been in? Luke is best known for his role as Daz Eden in Emmerdale from 2003 to 2009, along with roles in Shameless season 1, Waterloo Road, Casualty, Holby City, Our World War, and Moving On.

Elliott Tittensor plays Ser Erryk Cargyll

Who is Ser Erryk Cargyll? A knight of the Kinsguard who serves in King's Landing alongside his identical twin brother, Ser Arryk. Ser Erryk later aligns with the cause of Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen and the Blacks.

What else has Elliott Tittensor been in? Elliott is best known for his role as Carl Gallagher in Shameless, along with roles in the series Moving On, Chasing Shadows, Reg, and Silent Witness, as well as parts in the films Spike Island and Dunkirk.

Nicholas Jones plays Lord Bartimos Celtigar

Who is Lord Bartimos Celtigar? The Lord of Claw Isle and the head of House Celtigar, Lord Bartimos is an ally of Dragonstone and Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen. House Celtigar is also of the blood of Old Valyria but does not possess dragons.

What else has Nicholas Jones been in? A renowned character actor on stage and screen, Jones is best known for his television roles as Captain Triggers in the 1970s WWI drama Wings and as Jeremy Aldermarten QC in the legal drama Kavanagh QC.

Max Wrottesley plays Ser Lorent Marbrand

Who is Ser Lorent Marbrand? A sworn knight of the Kingsguard under King Viserys I Targaryen, Ser Lorent is loyal to Queen Rhaenyra I Targaryen and becomes a member of her Queensguard.

What else has Max Wrottesley been in? Wrottesley has also had roles in Open Grave, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Love Me Do.

Paul Hickey plays Lord Allun Caswell

Who is Lord Allun Caswell? The Lord of Bitterbridge and head of House Caswell, Lord Allun Caswell is loyal to Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen - to his ruin.

What else has Paul Hickey been in? Hickey has starred in The Inspector Lynley Mysteries, Whitechapel, Father Ted, Doctor Who, and Red Rock.

Paddy Considine plays King Viserys I Targaryen

Who is King Viserys I Targaryen? King Viserys is the warm-hearted king of the Seven Kingdoms and inherited the Iron Throne from his grandfather, King Jaehaerys, whose 50-year reign was defined by peace and prosperity. However, there is tension brewing around both Viserys' ascension to the throne and who his successor might be, which is causing factions to emerge and could lead to a significant conflict. By the end of season 1, Viserys is dead and a civil war has begun.

What else has Paddy Considine been in? Considine is known for his roles in films such as 24 Hour Party People, Cinderella Man, Hot Fuzz, The Bourne Ultimatum and The Death of Stalin. On the small screen, he has appeared in Channel 4's Red Riding, ITV's The Suspicions of Mr Whicher, BBC One's Peaky Blinders and Sky's The Third Day.

Sian Brooke plays Queen Aemma Arryn

Who is Queen Aemma Arryn? Queen Aemma is the consort of King Viserys I Targaryen and the mother of Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen. At the start of the series, Queen Aemma is heavily pregnant with who she hopes will be the male heir to King Viserys. Queen Aemma is of House Arryn of the Vale but is also descended from House Targaryen herself. At the end of the first episode, Queen Aemma has died after a brutal childbirth.

What else has Sian Brooke been in? British actress Sian Brooke is best known for her role as Eurus Holmes in Sherlock opposite Benedict Cumberbatch but has also had roles in Doctor Foster, The Moorside, Good Omens, Trying, Stephen and No Return.

Nanna Blondell, Savannah Steyn and Nova Fouellis-Mose play Lady Laena Velaryon

Who is Lady Laena Velaryon? The daughter of Lord Corlys Velaryon and Princess Rhaenys Targaryen, the sister of Ser Laenor Velaryon and, later, the second wife of Prince Daemon Targaryen and the mother of his two daughters, Lady Baela and Lady Rhaena Targaryen. Laena is a dragonrider whose mount is the largest living dragon in the world, Vhagar.

What else has Savannah Steyn been in? Steyn has starred in Sky’s Intergalactic and A Discovery of Witches.

What else has Nanna Blondell been in? The Swedish actress has appeared in the series Partisan and the film Black Widow and has starred in many Swedish television shows including Irene Huss and Hassel.

Nova Fouellis-Mose portrays Lady Laena Velaryon as a child.

Season 1 cast only

Graham McTavish plays Lord Commander Ser Harrold Westerling

Who is Ser Harrold Westerling? Ser Harrold is a loyal and longstanding member of the Kingsguard and has served House Targaryen since the reign of King Visery's father, King Jaehaerys. Harrold is tasked with watching over and protecting Princess Rhaenyra. Ser Harrold later serves as Lord Commander of the Kingsguard until his resignation following the death of King Viserys I Targaryen.

What else has Graham McTavish been in? McTavish is best known for his role as the dwarf Dwalin in The Hobbit trilogy, but has also appeared in numerous television series such as Castlevania, Preacher and Outlander. He has also voice acted for the Uncharted video game series and co-wrote Clanlands: Whisky, Warfare, and a Scottish Adventure Like No Other with his Outlander co-star Sam Heughan.

Gavin Spokes plays Lord Lyonel Strong

Who is Lord Lyonel Strong? The honest and down-to-earth Lord of Harrenhal and the Master of Laws in the Small Council of King Viserys I Targaryen. Lord Lyonel is the father of two sons, Ser Harwin and Larys. Lord Lyonel later serves as the Hand of the King until his death in a fire at Harrenhal.

What else has Gavin Spokes been in? Spokes has appeared in numerous television series, including ITV drama The Ipcress File, Hitmen, Casualty, and Holby City.

John Macmillan, Theo Nate and Matthew Carver play Ser Laenor Velaryon

Who is Ser Laenor Velaryon? Ser Laenor is the son and heir of Lord Corlys Velaryon and Princess Rhaenys Targaryen. Ser Laenor is set to inherit the Driftmark and the title Lord of the Tides. Due to his powerful blood ties and future inheritance, Ser Laenor is an ideal husband for Princess Rhaenyra but his sexuality means they can only ever love each other platonically.

What else has John Macmillan been in? Macmillan, who portrays an older Ser Laenor, is best known for his roles in Mitchell and Webb sitcom Back, Critical, Famalam, Hang Ups, and Chewing Gum.

What else has Theo Nate been in? Nate, who plays Ser Laenor as a young adult, previously appeared in the BBC prison drama series Time.

Matthew Carver portrays Ser Laenor Velaryon as a child.

Bill Paterson plays Lord Lyman Beesbury

Who is Lord Lyman Beesbury? The experienced Lord of Honeyholt and the Master of Coin on King Viserys' small council. Lord Beesbury goes on to become one of the longest-running advisors to the King.

What else has Bill Paterson been in? The veteran Scottish actor has appeared in numerous films and television series including: Comfort and Joy; Auf Wiedersehen, Pet; Truly, Madly, Deeply; Wives and Daughters; Sea of Souls; Amazing Grace; Miss Potter; Little Dorrit; Doctor Who; Outlander; Fleabag; Inside No. 9; Good Omens; and Brassic.

David Horovitch plays Grand Maester Mellos

Who is Grand Maester Mellos? A member of the Small Council and a long-running advisor to House Targaryen of moderate political leanings.

What else has David Horovitch been in? The English actor is best known for his role as Inspector Slack in Miss Marple. Horovitch's other television roles include Thriller, The New Avengers, Prince Regent, Piece of Cake, Bulman, Hold the Back Page, Boon, Love Hurts, Peak Practice, Foyle's War, The Second Coming, Deceit and Casualty.

Julian Lewis Jones plays Lord Boremund Baratheon

Who is Lord Boremund Baratheon? The Lord of Storm's End, Lord Paramount of the Strormlands and a nobleman who swore to protect Princess Rhaenyra. A cousin of Princess Rhaenys Targaryen.

What else has Julian Lewis Jones been in? The Welsh actor is best known for his television roles in Where the Heart Is, Caerdydd, The Tudors and Stella. He has also had small film roles in blockbusters such as Justice League.

Steffan Rhodri plays Lord Hobert Hightower

Who is Lord Hobert Hightower? The older brother of Ser Otto Hightower, the uncle of Alicent Hightower, and the ruler of Oldtown.

What else has Steffan Rhodri been in? The Welsh actor is best known for his roles as Dave Coaches in Gavin & Stacey and as Reg Cattermole in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1.

Wil Johnson plays Ser Vaemond Velaryon

Who is Ser Vaemond Velaryon? The younger brother of Lord Corlys Velaryon and a commander in the Velaryon navy joins his brother in his war in the Stepstones. Ser Vaemond is a fierce advocate of the importance of Velaryon blood and it brings him into conflict with Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen.

What else has Wil Johnson been in? Johnson is also known for his roles in Waking the Dead, Cracker, Holby City, and his role as Dom Andrews in Emmerdale from 2012 to 2014.

Daniel Scott-Smith plays Craghas Drahar/ "The Crabfeeder"

Who is Craghas Drahar? Dubbed "The Crabfeeder" due to his torture techniques, Drahar is a Prince-Admiral from Myr who represents the Triarchy and is seeking to conquer the islands known as the Stepstones and comes into conflict with Prince Daemon and House Velaryon. The war-mongerer suffers from Greyscale.

What else has Daniel Scott-Smith been in? Scott-Smtih is a stage performer and has appeared in productions of The Invitation, Hamlet, Common, Red Nose, In Extremis, and Sweeney Todd, along with television shows Amazon television series Jungle and the film Men in Black: International.

Ryan Corr plays Ser Harwin Strong

Who is Ser Harwin Strong? Known as "Breakbones", Ser Harwin Strong is noted as the strongest Knight in the Seven Kingdoms and is the heir to Harrenhal. Ser Harwin has a liking for Princess Rhaenyra and also serves in the City Watch of King's Landing. Ser Harwin is rumoured to be the biological father of Princess Rhaenyra's children.

What else has Ryan Corr been in? The Australian actor is best known for his roles in the Aussie series Packed to the Rafters and Love Child, along with roles in the films The Wolf Creek, The Water Diviner and Holding the Man.

Solly McLeod plays Ser Joffrey Lonmouth

Who is Ser Joffrey Lonmouth? A knight dubbed "The Knight of Kisses" who serves House Velaryon and is the lover of Ser Laenor Velaryon until his death at the hands of Ser Criston Cole.

What else has Solly McLeod been in? McLeod has starred in Outlander, The Rising and will soon be seen in ITV's Tom Jones.

Rachel Redford plays Lady Rhea Royce

Who is Lady Rhea Royce? The estranged first wife of Prince Daemon Targaryen and the heiress to Runestone in the Vale of Arryn. Daemon refers to her as his "bronze b***h".

What else has Rachel Redford been in? Redford has also appeared in the series Shadow and Bone and Gap Year.

Owen Oakeshott plays Ser Gerold Royce

Who is Ser Gerold Royce? The cousin of Lady Rhea Royce who has a bone to pick with Prince Daemon following her death.

What else has Owen Oakeshott been in? Oakeshott has also appeared in The Elder and The Upside of Anger.

Elliot Grihault and Harvey Salder play Prince Lucerys Velaryon

Who is Prince Lucerys Velaryon? The second son of Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen and, officially, Ser Laenor Velaryon. Suspected to be the bastard son of Ser Harwin Strong. Lucerys is nicknamed "Luke". A dragonrider, Lucerys' mount is the dragon Arrax.

Harvey Sadler portrays Prince Lucerys Velaryon as a child, while Elliot Grihault portrays him as a young adult.

Arty Froushan plays Ser Qarl Correy

Who is Ser Qarl Correy? A self-made knight who made his name fighting in the Stepstones, Ser Qarl is the companion and lover of Ser Laenor Velaryon.

What else has Arty Froushan been in? The British-Iranian actor has also appeared in Strike Back, Carnival Row and Knightfall.

Dean Nolan plays Prince Reggio Haratis

Who is Prince Reggio Haratis? The Prince of Pentos who seeks an alliance with Prince Daemon Targaryen against the Triarchy.

What else has Dean Nolan been in? Nolan has also appeared the films Pan and London Road.

Alexis Raben plays Talya

Who is Talya? The lady-in-waiting to Queen Alicent Hightower and a spy for Mysaria, the White Worm.

What else has Alexis Raben been in? The Russian-born actress has appeared in Banshees, Krypton, and played Xela in Game of Thrones season 5 episode 5, The Bells. Raben is married to co-showrunner Miguel Sapochnik.

Roger Evans plays Lord Borros Baratheon

Who is Lord Borros Baratheon? The son of Lord Boremund Baratheon, the Lord of Storm's End, and the Lord Paramount of the Stormlandss. Lord Borros is a desirable ally in any war for the Iron Throne. Notably, Borros did not swear fealty to Rhaenyra as his father did.

What else has Roger Evans been in? Evans has also starred in The Crown, The Legend of Tarzan, and Svengali.

Supporting cast members of House of the Dragon

Other cast members in House of the Dragon are as follows.

• Michael Carter as King Jaehaerys I Targaryen - The late grandfather of King Viserys I Targaryen, referred to as the Old King, he reigned over a peaceful kingdom for over half a century.
• Garry Cooper as Lord Commander Ser Ryam Redwyne - Lord Commander of the Kingsguard under Jaehaerys I Targaryen.
• Anthony Flanagan as Ser Steffon Darklyn - A member of the Kingsguard of King Viserys I Targaryen.

So, there are lots of cast members for you to get your head around.

Read More:

• How to watch House of the Dragon - where can you stream?
• House of the Dragon planned to last three or four seasons
• House of the Dragon season 2 review: A masterful second act
• When is House of the Dragon set? Game of Thrones timeline explained
• What time is House of the Dragon released in the UK?
• Where was House of the Dragon filmed?
• What is Dark Sister in House of the Dragon?
• Who is Queen Aemma in House of the Dragon and who plays her?
• Your guide to the dragons of House of the Dragon
• What is Aegon’s Dream and the Prince That Was Promised in House of the Dragon?
• What is Old Valyria, the Doom and High Valyrian in House of the Dragon?

House of the Dragon season 2 will air on Sky Atlantic and NOW in the UK from 17th June 2024 – find out more about how to sign up for Sky TV.

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