House Velaryon is a prominent family in House of the Dragon, but fans might be wondering why they weren’t in Game of Thrones or there was little to no mention of them in the original series. A quick answer to this is that the once-influential clan declined in power after the Targaryen civil war.
The prequel was a great opportunity to dive into the history of this legendary house that is often associated with the House Targaryen. The House Velaryon was known for its wealth and power over the seas and was led by Lord Corlys Velaryon, also known as the Lord of the Tides.
Is House Velaryon Dead In Game Of Thrones?
The House Velaryon played a significant role in the Dance of the Dragons as the major clan supporting Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen’s claim to the throne. They share the same Valyrian blood as their powerful relative, and they also display the same traits such as silvery blonde hair and the ability to ride dragons.
In House of the Dragon alone, fans have witnessed the deaths of Laena and Rhaenys Velaryon. Laenor, in the show, managed to escape after faking his own demise, although, in the books, he was actually murdered. This would leave Corlys, Laena’s daughters, Baela and Rhaena Targaryen, and his bastards Addam and Alyn Velaryon.
In George R.R. Martin’s Fire & Blood, the Lord of Driftmark would perish a year after the civil war ended and Alyn would become his successor. By this time, all the riches that Corlys has brought to the family through his sea voyages will expire, diminishing the family’s power and influence. After all, this wealth was what allowed them to make ties with the Targaryen dynasty.
House Velaryon remained the master of the ships and as part of the council of the succeeding Targaryen royalties, but they wouldn’t be as influential anymore. They still served their position during the reign of Aerys “The Mad King” Targaryen, but after the latter was slain and King Robert I ascended the throne, Dragonstone was handed to the House Baratheon.
House Velaryon remained a minor clan, and since the majority of the dragons perished during the civil war and they were believed to be “extinct” in Game of Thrones, the house held no power over the kingdom.
Upcoming Spinoff Series About House Velaryon
There are many upcoming planned spinoffs to Game of Thrones, and one of them will focus on the Sea Snake himself. George R.R. Martin previously announced on his website that Nine Voyages will be an animated series.
Actor Steve Toussaint, who plays Corlys Velaryon, expressed interest in voicing the lead character. “I would gladly do that,” he responded via Inverse. Even Eve Best, the actress who portrayed Rhaenys Targaryen, wants to tag along in the project.
Hopefully, this upcoming spinoff will make up for the absence of the House Velaryon in Game of Thrones. After all, their history and contribution to the main story are absolutely worth telling.
House of the Dragon Season 2 is now streaming on HBO.
