Director Clare Kilner has given a candid look through Gold Derby at one of the most disturbing new dynamics in House of the Dragon Season 3; the relationship between young Daeron Targaryen and Ormund Hightower.
Quick read:
- Director Claire Kilner agrees Ormund and Daeron have an abusive relationship
- She says however it is fun to direct
- She agrees Ormund is a great manipulator
Tessarion not even letting Ormund put his hands on Daeron, she said BACK OFF LMAOOO#HOTD #HouseOfTheDragon pic.twitter.com/2hG8y4Hn04
— ★ (@POPin4k) July 13, 2026
A dysfunctional and abusive bond
Kilner didn’t sugarcoat the nature of their connection:
“Daeron and Ormund’s relationship is really dysfunctional and horrible to watch, but brilliant and fun to direct. It’s a really abusive relationship.”
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She emphasized that Daeron has grown up knowing only the twisted version of love that Ormund offers:
“Daeron has only known the love that he’s known from Ormund, which isn’t love at all. Daeron is in Ormund’s thrall, but doesn’t really understand it or know it.”
Ormund as a master manipulator
Kilner described Ormund as a deeply calculating figure:
“Ormund is a great manipulator, and knows when to give love and when to give punishment. He’s an evil man.”
This cycle of conditional affection and punishment has left Daeron psychologically trapped, making him loyal to a man who uses him for his own gain.
Why this storyline stands out
The abusive nature of their relationship makes Daeron’s role in the war even more tragic. While he appears composed compared to his siblings, he carries deep trauma from years under Ormund’s influence. Kilner’s comments suggest this storyline will explore themes of manipulation, loyalty, and the long-term effects of psychological abuse.
As the season continues, it will be fascinating to see how Daeron navigates his dual heritage and whether he can break free from Ormund’s grip; or if the manipulation will continue to define him.
