Emma D’Arcy, known for portraying Rhaenyra Targaryen in House of the Dragon, recently discussed online fan culture during an interview with Josh Horowitz of the Happy Sad Confused podcast. They revealed they were unaware of the term “shipping” before joining the show.
The concept of shipping often extends beyond canon fictional stories, showcasing fans’ imaginative interpretations. House of the Dragon fans have deeply connected with its characters and their dynamics.
Emma D’Arcy’s experience with shipping
You can watch the full interview here:
Emma D’Arcy learned about the term “shipping” after joining House of the Dragon. They shared their initial unfamiliarity with this concept, common in fan culture. Despite not participating in shipping discourse, they acknowledged its significance within the fan base.
During the interview, D’Arcy expressed their fascination with the dedication of fans. They noted the commitment of those who create imaginative stories about relationships between fictional characters. D’Arcy respects this creativity but maintains their focus on portraying Rhaenyra authentically.
“I appreciate its existence. I don’t engage with it, though. We’re like respectful neighbors, and that feels like the appropriate way to relate to it. That said, I love the creativity that comes with a fan base like that of Thrones and House of the Dragon. There’s so much production happening around the show itself. I find that kind of amazing. I think it would have been incredible to be part of something like that as a younger person. Maybe that’s where I should have been as a teenager.”
Read More: Emma D’Arcy requested for Rhaenyra to have a weapon in House of the Dragon Season 3
D’Arcy’s bond with Olivia Cooke
Credits: HBO
D’Arcy reflected on their connection with Olivia Cooke, who plays Alicent Hightower in House of the Dragon. The two actors first met at a dinner hosted by showrunners Miguel Sapochnik and Ryan Condal after being cast. They described their bond as an instant and meaningful connection.
“It was the first time Olivia and I met, and I sort of clung to her, like some kind of lifeline. I don’t know why, but I just recognized something in her. I think maybe she felt the same. It didn’t take long for us to develop a deep, shared understanding of each other. Our job is so strange, right? Out of nowhere, someone walks into your life and becomes fundamentally important.”
“I’m constantly blown away by that—it feels like a kind of miracle. At the same time, it’s also a potential danger of project-based work like this. As an actor or any creative, you have to come in with an open heart to work collaboratively, and you never know how important someone might become. Olivia has become one of the pillars in my life. It’s incredible how that connection forms so quickly and deeply.”
D’Arcy expressed gratitude for Cooke’s presence in their life, calling it a miracle to find such a deep connection in a project-based environment. This bond was pivotal during the emotionally intense scenes they shared.
Their off-screen relationship provided a foundation for portraying the complex dynamic between Rhaenyra and Alicent. Their shared understanding enriched their performances, adding depth to their on-screen rivalry.
Read More:Emma D’Arcy explains the difference between Alicent Hightower and Rhaenyra Targaryen
