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House of the Dragon – Season 2, Episode 1 A Son for a Son

Play trailer House of the Dragon – Season 2, Episode 1 A Son for a Son Aired Jun 16, 2024 Drama Fantasy Play Trailer Watchlist
Watchlist Tomatometer Popcornmeter
97% Tomatometer 34 Reviews
While Rhaenyra struggles to come to terms with her son's murder in King's Landing, Alicent grows concerned that Aegon's Small Council may lead them to an all-out war; Larys suggests Aegon needs a new Hand and Rhaenyra arrives at a fateful decision.
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House of the Dragon — Season 2, Episode 1

House of the Dragon — Season 2, Episode 1

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Critics Consensus

"A Son for a Son" carefully sets the pieces for the oncoming civil war before shockingly flipping the whole board, getting this season off to an unpredictable start.

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Cast & Crew

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Ryan Condal

Creator

Matt Smith

Prince Daemon Targaryen

Emma D'Arcy

Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen

Rhys Ifans

Otto Hightower

Steve Toussaint

Lord Corlys Velaryon ("The Sea Snake")

Eve Best

Princess Rhaenys Targaryen
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House of the Dragon — Season 2, Episode 1

House of the Dragon House of the Dragon House of the Dragon House of the Dragon View more photos

Critics Reviews

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Glen Weldon NPR Aug 5, 2024
Really thought the Blood and Cheese stuff would play out last season, but I have to admit it’s a hell of a way to kick off season 2. Go to Full Review Melanie McFarland Salon.com Aug 5, 2024
This world has more dragons to show off, but less of the natural magic that made Game of Thrones a satisfying weekly destination. I'm not talking about the sorcery in Essos, but the extensive dives into the humanity and foibles of each character. Go to Full Review Alison Herman Variety Aug 5, 2024
In Season 2, House of the Dragon feels like it's finally the show it was always meant to be. Go to Full Review Hannah Cowton-Barnes Tech Advisor Jul 31, 2026
4.5/5
While I can’t fully judge a season by its opening, House of the Dragon pulls no punches with these first two episodes, exploring grief, egos and the horrors of revenge. Go to Full Review Anthony Whyte The Movie Blog Sep 1, 2025
House of the Dragon’s season 2 premiere is a solid return to Westeros. While the episode might be a slow burn for some, it’s definitely worth watching for fans of the show and newcomers alike. Go to Full Review CK Anderson Loud and Clear Reviews Aug 13, 2024
“A Son for a Son” is a solid foundation-laying premiere that decides to be patient with its descent into all-out bloodshed rather than diving into spectacle. Go to Full Review Read all reviews

Episode Info

Synopsis While Rhaenyra struggles to come to terms with her son's murder in King's Landing, Alicent grows concerned that Aegon's Small Council may lead them to an all-out war; Larys suggests Aegon needs a new Hand and Rhaenyra arrives at a fateful decision.
Director
Alan Taylor
Creator
Ryan Condal
Executive Producer
George R.R. Martin, Ryan Condal, Sara Hess, Alan Taylor, Melissa Bernstein, Kevin De La Noy, Loni Peristere, Vince Gerardis
Screenwriter
Ryan Condal
Network
HBO
Rating
TV-MA
Genre
Drama, Fantasy
Original Language
English
Release Date
Jun 16, 2024
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