The future of Harrenhal remains shrouded in mystery, but fans can officially expect one familiar face to return. Gayle Rankin has confirmed that she’ll be back as Alys Rivers in the fourth and final season of House of the Dragon, while also revealing that filming is set to begin early next year. The update is one of the clearest production timelines fans have received since season 3 came to an end.
Quick read:
- Gayle Rankin will return in season 4.
- Filming begins early next year.
- Alys and Aemond’s story isn’t over.
Gayle Rankin confirms her return as Alys Rivers
While promoting her upcoming film The Incomer, Rankin told The Direct that she will indeed be involved in the show’s final season.
Gayle said: “[I] will be [involved].”
She also provided a significant production update, revealing that filming is expected to begin“early next year.”
The comment aligns with previous indications that HBO is preparing to begin production on the final season in early 2027. For fans eager to see the conclusion of the Dance of the Dragons, it’s a promising sign that work is moving forward on schedule.
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Aemond And Alys Rivers Relationship In House Of The Dragon Season 3 Episode 6 (Credit: HBO Max)
Alys and Aemond still have unfinished business
Rankin was understandably careful not to reveal details about Alys’ future after the dramatic events at Harrenhal in season 3.
The arrival of Aegon complicated the relationship between Alys and Aemond Targaryen, particularly after the king urged his brother to leave his self-imposed exile and return to the war against Rhaenyra.
When asked what comes next, Rankin only teased that there is more story to tell.
According to The Direct, the actress noted that both Alys and Aemond are“still alive” at the end of season 3.
That’s hardly a major spoiler, but in the world of Westeros, simply surviving often means a character still has an important role to play.
With Alys’ prophetic powers, her influence over Harrenhal, and her complicated connection to Aemond, it’s difficult to imagine the final season reaching its conclusion without her involvement.
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