“It’s such a gorgeous brotherly relationship”: Peter Claffey on the chemistry between Dunk and Egg

The second episode of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms aired this Sunday. Unlike the original Game of Thrones series that focused on kings, noble houses, and sprawling political conflicts, this spin-off tells a far more intimate story – one centred on the shared journey of two unlikely companions – Dunk and Egg.

Following the success of House of the Dragon, fans have warmly embraced the quieter, character-driven adventure of Dunk (played by Peter Claffey) and Egg (played by Dexter Sol Ansell). Coming from vastly different upbringings, the two characters slowly grow closer as the story unfolds.

Told almost entirely from their perspective, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms deliberately steps away from large-scale political battles, allowing Dunk and Egg the space to shine and explore the depth of their bond.

The bond of Dunk and Egg – the story so far

The series establishes a grounded, emotional tone from Episode 1. The pilot opens with Dunk grieving the loss of his mentor, Ser Arlan of Pennytree, as he gives him a proper burial. With Ser Arlan gone, Dunk’s future appears uncertain, marking a turning point in his life.

Soon after, Dunk decides to travel to Ashford and attempt to take part in the tourney his mentor was headed toward – a detail that becomes clearer in Episode 2. Along the way, he encounters Egg outside an inn, initially mistaking him for a stable boy.

Before Dunk leaves for Ashford, he finds Egg again – this time seated atop one of his horses and pretending to be a knight. Dunk scolds him and pulls him down, and Egg promptly offers to become his squire. Dunk rejects the idea outright.

They meet again the following day after Ser Manfred Dondarrion refuses to vouch for Dunk’s participation in the Tourney of Ashford. Sitting by a fire and roasting fish, Dunk reluctantly agrees to take Egg on as his squire – at least for the tourney. The two spend the night talking, sleeping beside one another, and watching a shooting star pass overhead.

Credits: HBO

Episode 2: A friendship begins to take shape

The second episode of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms deepens the bond between the two main characters. Now officially serving as Dunk’s squire, Egg bickers with him after Lord Leo “Longthorn” Tyrell also refuses to sponsor Dunk for the tourney.

The duo later watch a play together and meets Tanselle, asking her to paint Dunk’s shield – an important step in preparing for the competition. They also help Ser Lyonel Baratheon win a game of tug-of-war, sharing a rare moment of triumph together.

As the tourney begins that evening, Egg watches the jousts with excitement, while Dunk observes the other knights with visible doubt, quietly measuring his chances. The episode closes on a reflective note, with Dunk openly sharing his uncertainty with Egg.

So far, the series has carefully built the dynamic between Dunk and Egg, presenting a relationship that increasingly feels brotherly rather than strictly being of a knight and a squire. The show remains faithful to its source material, capturing the warmth and sincerity of their unlikely bond.

Peter Claffey on the bond between Dunk and Egg

Actor Peter Claffey spoke about the growing chemistry between Dunk and Egg on the official Game of Thrones podcast released shortly after the second episode. Reflecting on their relationship, he said:

“It’s like, it’s just such a gorgeous sort of brotherly relationship as well. Yeah, I feel like there’s a real sweetness to it, which is another thing you don’t always see in this world.”

As A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms continues, it’s this quiet, emotional connection—rather than spectacle – that gives the series its heart. The teaser for the third episode of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms hints at even more fun-filled adventures for Dunk and Egg as their journey continues. Are you excited to see where their story goes next? Tell us in the comments.