The popular HBO series, House of the Dragon returned with a second season, continuing the conflict between the Blacks and the Greens. As Rhaenyra navigates the complex political landscape and manages her allies and enemies amidst growing tensions, Daemon has been gone from Dragonstone so far in the show.
However, the shift has not been well received by fans, who have expressed frustration over the lack of scenes between the characters, whose relationship had been a highlight of Season 1. Not just fans, Emma D’Arcy, who plays Rhaenyra, has also voiced their disappointment over the estrangement between the characters.
House of the Dragon Actress Expressed Frustration Over the Lack of Scenes with Matt Smith
After their introduction in House of the Dragon Season 1, Rhaenyra Targaryen and Daemon Targaryen appeared as one of the most beloved duos in the show. However, unlike the first season of the show, their relationship has been marked by estrangement.
Throughout most of Season 2 of House of the Dragon, Daemon has been away from Dragonstone, dealing with disturbing visions involving his wife and aggressively seeking alliances while building an army at Harrenhal.
While the characters are expected to reunite eventually, fans have been quite frustrated with this approach of keeping the two characters apart. When asked about filming without Matt Smith in Season 2, Emma D’Arcy echoed the fans’ sentiments.
“Frankly, I found it frustrating,” the actor said, talking about filming without their co-star, with whom they really enjoyed working with.
They told Variety in a recent interview,
I know I’ve spoken a lot about it, but I enjoy shooting with Matt a lot, and it was a shame for me not to get to do more of that.
As for Rhaenyra and Daemon’s estrangement, D’Arcy also hinted at an ultimate battle that could bring them back together as they get ready to face a much bigger conflict in the future.
Emma D’Arcy Discusses Rhaenyra and Daemon’s Potential Fallout
During their conversation with Variety, Emma D’Arcy also discussed the potential impact of Rhaenyra Targaryen and Mysaria’s surprising kiss on the character’s already tumultuous relationship with Daemon Targaryen.
Reflecting on their character’s mindset and the intricate power dynamics at play, D’Arcy said, “I don’t expect that she will have any intention of telling him.” However, they also suggested that Rhaenyra feels proud and empowered by the act and might also like the idea of Daemon finding out.
I imagine she quite likes the idea of him finding out. There’s such a power struggle in their relationship, that hooking up with his ex, I can only think, would feel like a useful point on the board.
The kiss feature in Episode 6 between Rhaenyra and Mysaria is not part of George R.R. Martin’s Fire & Blood and is expected to impact Rhaenyra and Daemon’s dynamic.
With only two episodes remaining in Season 2, it remains unclear whether this development will be fully explored within the season or if fans will need to wait until the next season for further resolution.
House of the Dragon is available to stream on Max.
