D’Arcy has shared an intriguing insight into the evolving relationship between Rhaenyra Targaryen and Alicent Hightower in House of the Dragon Season 3. In a talk with Deadline, D’Arcy explained that despite the deep polarisation and open conflict between the two former friends, Rhaenyra continues to view Alicent as a moral authority figure in her life.
Quick read:
- Rhaenyra still holds a special place for Alicent in her heart
- They affirm that Alicent being Rhaenyra’s judge will play out interestingly in Season 3
- Their conflict remains the heart of the war
‘House Of The Dragon’s Emma D’Arcy on how Rhaenyra and Alicent’s relationship evolves in Season 3 and filming with “my great friend” Olivia Cooke #HOTD pic.twitter.com/zIXHGN7FEp
— Deadline (@DEADLINE) June 8, 2026
Emma said,
“I think there’s something kind of interesting in that Rhaenyra still perceives Alicent as her sort-of judge and jury no matter how polarised their relationship becomes.”
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This revelation adds a fascinating emotional layer to the central rivalry of the series. Even as the two women lead opposing sides in the Dance of the Dragons, a lingering psychological bond remains, with Alicent still holding a powerful symbolic role in Rhaenyra’s mind.
A surprising dynamic in Season 3
D’Arcy went on to tease that this complicated perception will play out in unexpected ways this season:
“And without doing spoilers, just because of how they’re located this season, I think that Alicent as Rhaenyra’s judge plays out in a really interesting and surprising way this time round.”
This comment suggests that Season 3 will explore not just their political and military opposition, but also the deeply personal and psychological tension that continues to exist between them. Their fractured relationship, once defined by childhood friendship, has now become one of the emotional cores of the war.
The heart of the conflict
The idea that Rhaenyra still sees Alicent as her “judge and jury” speaks to the lasting impact of their shared history. No matter how much blood is spilled between the Blacks and the Greens, the two women remain emotionally entangled. This dynamic adds complexity to Rhaenyra’s character, showing that even as she grows more confident and ruthless, she cannot fully escape Alicent’s influence and judgment.

















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