The highly anticipated third season of 'House of the Dragon' is almost here, promising even more intense violence and gore than its predecessors. With the premiere just days away, fans are eager to see the epic battles unfold. Ahead of its release, significant changes have been made to the cast. Here is everything we know about who is returning, who is leaving, and who is joining the series this season.
Returning Cast Members for Season 3
Many beloved characters are back for the third season. The returning cast includes Emma D'Arcy as Rhaenyra Targaryen, Olivia Cooke as Alicent Hightower, Matt Smith as Daemon Targaryen, Ewan Mitchell as Aemond Targaryen, Phia Saban as Helaena Targaryen, Steve Toussaint as Corlys Velaryon, Tom Glynn-Carney as Aegon II, and Fabien Frankel as Ser Criston Cole.
Other returnees are Sonoya Mizuno as Mysaria, Rhys Ifans as Ser Otto Hightower, Harry Collett as Prince Jacaerys 'Jace' Velaryon, Bethany Antonia as Lady Baela Targaryen, Phoebe Campbell as Lady Rhaena Targaryen, Jefferson Hall as twins Lord Jason Lannister and Ser Tyland Lannister, Matthew Needham as Lord Larys Strong, Tom Bennett as Ulf White, Kieran Bew as Hugh Hammer, Kurt Egyiawan as Grand Maester Orwyle, Abubakar Salim as Alyn of Hull, Gayle Rankin as Alys Rivers, Freddie Fox as Ser Gwayne Hightower, and Clinton Liberty as Addam of Hull.
Characters Exiting Before Season 3
Several characters will not appear in the new season. Eve Best's Rhaenys Targaryen died in episode 4 of season 2, concluding her storyline. Ser Erryk and Ser Arryk Cargyll, played by real twins Elliott and Luke Tittensor, were killed off in the second episode of the previous season. Jaehaerys Targaryen, portrayed by Jude Rock, also died in the season 2 premiere.
Simon Russell Beale, who joined as Ser Simon Strong in season 2, has been omitted from the official cast list for season 3, suggesting he will not return. Similarly, Tom Taylor, who played Lord Cregan Stark, has not been listed for the upcoming season.
New Additions to the Cast
Pearl Clark joins the series, replacing Lulu Barker as Princess Jaehaera Targaryen. Due to a time jump, Jaehaera was a toddler in season 2 but will be 10 years old in season 3. Annie Shapero has been cast as Alysanne Blackwood. Other new cast members include Barry Sloane as Ser Adrian Redfort, Joplin Sibtain as Ser 'Bold' Jon Roxton, Tommy Flanagan as Ser Roderick Dustin, Dan Fogler as Ser Torrhen Manderly, and James Norton as Ormund Hightower.
Release Date and Where to Watch
'House of the Dragon' season 3 premieres internationally on June 21, 2026, on HBO and Max. For fans in India, the season will also be available for streaming on JioHotstar.
This article is based on information from the TOI Entertainment Desk.
