House of the Dragon star opens up on shock death in season three premiere: ‘Nothing compared to this’
House of the Dragon Star Reflects on Jace’s Dramatic Exit in Season 3 Premiere
House of the Dragon star opens - The third season of *House of the Dragon* officially launched on Sunday, June 21, delivering a harrowing opening that left fans stunned. The episode, titled “The Battle of the Gullet,” set the stage for a brutal conflict that has become a recurring theme in the show’s narrative. As the Targaryens continue their struggle for power, the latest developments have intensified the stakes, marking a significant turning point in the series.
Shocking Casualties and Strategic Shifts
The season’s debut episode featured a high-stakes clash between the forces of Rhaenyra Targaryen and her allies, led by Daemon Targaryen, and the Greens, who had taken control of the realm. The battle was a pivotal moment, with Rhaena Targaryen playing a crucial role in altering the course of events. Her arrival on a rogue dragon, Sheepstealer, added an unexpected layer of tension, as the skies above the Gullet became a battlefield in their own right.
Among the casualties was Jace Wynter, the eldest son of Rhaenyra and a central figure in the storyline. His death, which occurred during a dramatic confrontation, was executed with precision. Jace’s dragon, Vermax, was felled by enemy fire, sending him plummeting into the water. As he struggled to stay afloat, he was struck by arrows, sealing his fate in a sequence that combined visual spectacle with emotional impact.
“It was really hard to act dead – it’s actually one of the hardest acting I’ve ever done in my life,” said Harry Collett, who portrayed Jace. “It was really fun, but also really challenging trying to keep my eyes open in the water and staying afloat, while also not getting any up my nose. Otherwise, I’d cough, and obviously I’m not dead if I cough. So that was quite challenging.”
Collett’s experience highlights the meticulous attention to detail required to convey authenticity in the show’s intense scenes. The death of Jace, though impactful, was a result of production adjustments. Initially planned for season two, the battle scene was moved to season three due to budget constraints, allowing for a more dramatic debut.
Behind the Scenes: A Star’s Perspective
Reflecting on the episode’s structure, Collett shared insights into the decision to delay his character’s fate. “I knew my fate already, and was taking the days as they come and enjoying myself and just being grateful to be on this show in the first place,” he explained. “When I read season two, normally Ryan calls you to tell you what is gonna happen this season. I didn’t get a call, and I was like, ‘Is he just waiting until like we get to the script read?’ But, no, [the death scene] got skipped in season two, which I’m very grateful for. It’s great that it gets to be the first episode that people see for this season.”
“I actually asked if I could say that [‘Dracarys’]. So I was really happy about that,” Collett added, describing the episode’s opening. “Nothing compared to this.”
The inclusion of the High Valyrian command in Jace’s final moments added a symbolic flourish to his demise. It underscored the show’s commitment to capturing the essence of the *Game of Thrones* universe, even as it introduced new layers of complexity. Collett’s portrayal of Jace’s last moments, both physically and emotionally, has been praised for its realism and depth.
The Targaryen Saga Continues
Since its debut in 2022, *House of the Dragon* has become a cornerstone of the *Game of Thrones* franchise, expanding on the lore of the Targaryen dynasty and the political strife that preceded the main series. The third season’s premiere, however, marked a departure from the earlier seasons’ focus on court intrigue, shifting the narrative toward open warfare and visceral storytelling.
With Rhaenyra and Daemon’s forces now entrenched in battle, the episode raised questions about the future of the characters and the power dynamics at play. The Greens’ resurgence, particularly Aemond Targaryen’s claim to the throne, has left the series in a state of flux. Meanwhile, the loss of Jace has deepened the emotional weight of the conflict, reminding viewers of the cost of war in this world.
Production and Spin-Off Legacy
Production challenges have shaped the series’ trajectory, with the Battle of the Gullet serving as a testament to the show’s adaptability. Originally slated for season two, the scene was postponed to ensure its maximum impact, reflecting the creative choices made to enhance the storytelling. This adjustment also allowed for a more immersive experience, as the battle unfolded in a visually stunning manner.
As a spin-off of the original *Game of Thrones* series, *House of the Dragon* has carved its own identity while staying true to the source material. The show’s success has paved the way for other spin-offs, such as *A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms*, which premiered earlier this year with a more lighthearted tone. These projects demonstrate the enduring popularity of the *Game of Thrones* universe and its potential for diverse storytelling.
With the third season’s premiere, *House of the Dragon* has solidified its place as a compelling continuation of the saga. The death of Jace, while a pivotal moment, is just one of many developments that will shape the series moving forward. As fans eagerly await the next episodes, the show’s blend of action, politics, and character-driven drama continues to captivate audiences.
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