Since stepping into the role of the mysterious and powerful Alys Rivers in House of the Dragon, actress Gayle Rankin has found herself typecast in a very specific and empowering way.
Talking to Hindustan Times, the star revealed she is now being offered numerous “witchy roles,” embracing the shift with enthusiasm rather than frustration.
Embracing the witch archetype
Rankin openly described the experience as leaving her “very typecast,” but she views it as a gift.
“It’s an amazing gift for me as an actor and a woman. I try to live up to that and embody it.”
For Rankin, playing Alys, who proudly declares herself a witch in the series has allowed her to reclaim the idea of witchcraft as a powerful and positive force. She sees it as a “powerful badge of honour,” especially in a world where many women still struggle with being boxed into certain stereotypes.
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Aemond se arrastando até os pés de Alys Rivers e implorando por ajuda…
O que vocês esperam desses dois juntos? 👀#HouseoftheDragon pic.twitter.com/kasLh5QcTZ
— House the Dragons (@housethedragons) June 29, 2026
A positive career impact
Far from complaining, Rankin has leaned into the archetype. She noted that the role has been personally helpful and empowering. The mysterious, witch-associated nature of Alys Rivers has opened doors to similar complex, mystical characters, giving her the opportunity to explore strong female roles with depth and magic.
Her performance as Alys, particularly in Season 3 where the character’s enigmatic qualities and connections (including with Aemond Targaryen) are further explored, has clearly left a strong impression on audiences and casting directors.
Rankin has no plans to shy away from the witchy roles coming her way. Instead, she intends to continue embracing them, using the platform to challenge and redefine what these characters can represent on screen.
