The wait for the next season of House of the Dragon might have just gotten clearer. While HBO has not yet set an official return date, Matt Smith, the actor behind Prince Daemon Targaryen, has offered the most specific update yet. During a recent interview on the UK morning show This Morning, Smith gave a strong hint about the show’s return window.
The Latest Release Date Update
In his interview, Matt Smith provided a clear timeline for fans eagerly waiting for the next chapter of the Targaryen civil war. When discussing the upcoming season, he stated, “That comes out in…I think in August next year”. This points directly to August 2026 as the potential premiere month.
It is important to note that HBO has not formally announced this date. However, Smith’s comment is the most tangible information to come from anyone involved with the production. This timeline aligns with the pattern set by the show’s previous seasons. The first season debuted in August 2022, and the second season followed almost exactly two years later in August 2024. A return in August 2026 would maintain this two-year production cycle.
Production Status and What to Expect
The show’s creators need this extended time between seasons. House of the Dragon is a massive production involving complex visual effects for its dragons and large-scale battle sequences. Filming for the third season was a lengthy process, taking place from March to October 2025. The post-production phase, where most visual effects are added, is now underway.
The upcoming season will dive deeper into the war known as the Dance of the Dragons. This is the full-blown Targaryen civil war that was brewing throughout the second season. The story is based on events from author George R. R. Martin’s book Fire & Blood. Viewers can expect to see major battles from the book’s history finally play out on screen.
New Faces and Key Storylines
Season 3 will see the return of the main cast, including Emma D’Arcy as Rhaenyra Targaryen, Olivia Cooke as Alicent Hightower, and Tom Glynn-Carney as King Aegon II. Ewan Mitchell will also be back as the formidable Aemond Targaryen, whose role is set to expand significantly.
New images released by HBO show Aemond sitting on the Iron Throne, reflecting his rise to power as Prince Regent while his brother, King Aegon, recovers from injuries.
The season will also introduce important new characters. James Norton has joined the cast as Lord Ormund Hightower, a key military leader for the Greens. Other new additions include Tommy Flanagan as Lord Roderick Dustin and Dan Fogler as Ser Torrhen Manderly. Their arrival signals the widening scope of the war, drawing more of Westeros into the conflict.
A Glimpse from the First Teaser
Fans recently got their first brief look at the new season. HBO released a preview sizzle reel for its 2026 programming, which included quick clips from House of the Dragon Season 3. The footage, though short, offered several intriguing glimpses:
- A first look at James Norton as Ormund Hightower in full armor.
- Clips of both Alicent and Rhaenyra.
- A mysterious shot of a flaming skull in a fireplace, hinting at dark magic or visions linked to locations like Harrenhal.
This teaser confirms that production is moving forward and that the war for the Iron Throne will continue to be a central focus. The series has already been renewed for a fourth season, assuring fans that the story will continue beyond 2026.
For audiences around the world, the show will be available to stream on HBO Max in the United States. International viewers can watch it on services like Crave in Canada, Sky Atlantic and Now in the UK and parts of Europe, and Binge in Australia.
