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House of the Dragon’s Harry Collett says landing Jacaerys Velaryon helped him “with the ladies”

October 23, 2026

Before joining House of the Dragon, Harry Collett wasn’t exactly expecting to become one of Westeros’ newest heartthrobs.

As Prince Jacaerys Velaryon, however, the actor quickly became a fan favorite, inspiring countless social-media edits celebrating his looks and charisma. Looking back on the attention he’s received since joining the HBO series, Collett admits it was something he never saw coming, though he has a theory about why it happened.

Quick read:

Harry Collett was surprised by fan attention.
Jacaerys became a popular fan favorite.
The actor jokes being a prince helped.

Collett never expected his rise in popularity

In a recent interview with GQ, Collett reflected on the reaction to Jacaerys throughout House of the Dragon’s run.

While fan edits initially focused on Jace’s popularity and appearance, the conversation shifted after the character’s tragic death during the Battle of the Gullet.

Speaking about the attention he’s received, Collett admitted it was a completely new experience.

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“I never expected to get that much attention, because I didn’t get that attention at school. I never really was one with the ladies at a young age.”

The actor’s honesty is part of what makes the quote so relatable. Despite starring in one of television’s biggest fantasy series, Collett remembers a very different reality before Westeros entered his life.

HBO

Jacaerys Velaryon gave him a confidence boost

While Collett appreciates the support from fans, he’s not convinced all the credit belongs to him.

Instead, he believes playing a handsome Targaryen prince probably helped his cause.

“I feel like your roles can help you out a little bit. Like, I’m a prince in it. That’s gonna make anybody 10 times more attractive than they actually are.”

It’s a typically self-deprecating answer, but many fans would likely disagree with his assessment.

After all, Jacaerys became one of the most beloved characters on the show thanks not only to his royal status but also to Collett’s performance. Noble, loyal, and determined, Jace earned a passionate following before his heartbreaking fate in season 3.

Still, if you ask Collett, being a prince with a dragon probably didn’t hurt.

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