June 24, 2026

Matt Smith and Emma D'Arcy Reveal Who'd Struggle Most Living Rhaenyra and Daemon's Lives

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Hello everyone, and welcome to another episode of Once and Always a Fanboy! Today is a special one because this marks my very first official HBO Max junket, and I couldn't have asked for a better way to kick things off. We're heading back to Westeros as I chat with two of the stars of House of the Dragon. We talk about Daemon and Rhaenyra's evolution over three seasons, the weight of power and identity, and even have some fun imagining what would happen if they traded places with other characters in Westeros. Fangirls and fanboys, Matt Smith and Emma D'Arcy!

00:00 Preview
00:27 Intro
00:36 Rhaenyra's Identity
01:50 Daemon's Ambition
03:14 Westeros Character Swap

#HouseOfTheDragon #MattSmith #EmmaDarcy

Matt Smith Profile Photo

Matt Smith is a British actor best known for portraying the Eleventh Doctor in the long running science fiction series Doctor Who. He later gained widespread acclaim for his role as Daemon Targaryen in HBO’s House of the Dragon. Smith has also appeared in acclaimed productions such as The Crown and numerous film projects.

Emma D'Arcy Profile Photo

Emma D'Arcy is an English actor best known for portraying Rhaenyra Targaryen in HBO’s hit fantasy series House of the Dragon. Their performance as the ambitious heir to the Iron Throne earned widespread critical acclaim and introduced them to a global audience. D'Arcy has also appeared in theater, television, and independent film projects.