Season 3 of House of the Dragon has reignited the dynamic between Rhaenyra and Daemon, a relationship that continues to fascinate fans. In a new interview with Variety, Emma D’Arcy reflected on working alongside Matt Smith once again, describing him as their “sparring partner” and emphasizing how much of Rhaenyra’s foundation as a character was built in dialogue with Daemon.
Quick read
- Emma D’Arcy praised Matt Smith as their “sparring partner.”
- They said much of Rhaenyra’s character was shaped in dialogue with Daemon.
- D’Arcy highlighted the “pure Targaryenism” energy when the two are together.
Building Rhaenyra through partnership
D’Arcy explained that working with Smith has been central to shaping Rhaenyra’s journey: “For me as an actor, it’s been a total delight getting to work with Matt again. I’ve said it before, but he is my sparring partner, and so much of the foundation of this character was created in dialogue with him and with Damon. So I have been delighted.”
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Pure Targaryen energy
They also noted the unique energy that emerges when Rhaenyra and Daemon share the screen: “I think that there’s like an energy that they bring when they’re together that speaks to a pure Targaryenism that, when Rhaenyra is on her own, she maybe doesn’t have quite the same access to. For my money, that’s really exciting.”
This dynamic underscores how Daemon’s presence amplifies Rhaenyra’s sense of identity and legitimacy, even as she grapples with paranoia, grief, and the burdens of ruling.
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