Top 5 Character Deaths Anticipated in House of the Dragon Season 3

This article contains spoilers for the book Fire & Blood, which serves as the foundation for HBO’s House of the Dragon.

Anticipated Character Deaths in House of the Dragon Season 3

As fans eagerly await the arrival of House of the Dragon season 3, speculation abounds regarding which characters may meet their demise. The HBO prequel draws inspiration from Fire & Blood, a lore-centric book by George R. R.Martin, though the series has taken considerable liberties with its narrative and timeline. The precise number of episodes in the upcoming season remains uncertain, complicating predictions about character arcs and crucial events.

HBO has confirmed that the series will wrap up after four total seasons. This leads many to speculate that key storylines, such as the Storming of the Dragonpit, could mark the climactic high point of season 3. Alternatively, the Battle Above the God’s Eye might serve as a pivotal moment, especially if the creators wish to keep certain characters for season 4 promotional strategies. Regardless, numerous significant deaths are anticipated as the conflict escalates.

1. Otto Hightower

Otto’s Fate Post-Rhaenyra’s Recapture of King’s Landing

Otto Hightower’s presence in season 2 was sparse following his ousting as Hand of the King by King Aegon II Targaryen, who appointed Ser Criston Cole in his stead. During this time, Otto returned to the Reach, gathering his forces in hopes of assisting his grandson. However, the conclusion of the season left Otto captured in a dungeon—an event absent from the books.

This deviation suggests a potential shift in his fate. According to the source material, Otto meets his end shortly after Rhaenyra overtakes King’s Landing, which is expected in the early episodes of the upcoming season.

2. Jacaerys Velaryon

Jacaerys’ Demise at the Battle of the Gullet

Jacaerys Velaryon in House of the Dragon

The Battle of the Gullet is set to be another major conflict within the narrative. In this chaotic naval confrontation, Rhaenyra’s faction faces off against the Triarchy, who attempt to breach Corlys Velaryon’s naval blockade. Unlike the book, where certain characters may be absent, the series will likely feature Tyland Lannister. Unfortunately for Rhaenyra, this battle will result in significant losses, including her heir, Jacaerys, and his dragon.

Ultimately, Jacaerys’ death marks a sorrowful turning point in the saga, highlighting the costly sacrifices made during the struggle for power and survival.

3. Criston Cole

Criston Cole’s Ambush by Stark and Tully Forces

Criston Cole’s demise is likely to elicit a mixed reaction from the audience, as it occurs after a strategic disagreement with Aemond. Following Daemon’s assistance in securing King’s Landing for Rhaenyra, the duo captures Harrenhal. Tensions flare when Aemond ignites chaos across the Riverlands, hoping to lure Daemon into combat. Cole, advocating for a strategic retreat to regroup with the Hightower forces, finds himself outmaneuvered.

Ultimately, Cole and his men are ambushed by the Northern forces during a brutal encounter known as the Butcher’s Ball, leading to his tragic end.

4. Helena Targaryen

Helaena’s Inevitable Tragedy

Helaena Targaryen in House of the Dragon

Throughout the series, Helaena Targaryen’s fate has been foreshadowed multiple times, particularly in the season 2 finale where she is seen near a precarious ledge. Her demise, which follows the death of her son Maelor—a character not yet introduced in the series—poses a significant emotional blow. Following Rhaenyra’s conquest of King’s Landing and the tragedy that befalls Maelor, Helaena tragically takes her own life by jumping from her room.

A beloved character portrayed beautifully by Phia Saban, her death is poised to resonate deeply with the audience.

5. Storming of the Dragonpit

A Catastrophic Event with Numerous Consequences

The Storming of the Dragonpit is set to be a catastrophic event, involving multiple minor character deaths and the demise of several dragons. In the aftermath of Rhaenyra’s seize of King’s Landing, Larys Strong foments unrest among the common folk, sparking a riot following Helaena Targaryen’s tragic death. This insurrection leads to devastating losses, including the deaths of Prince Joffrey Velaryon and numerous dragons such as Shrykos and Morghul.

While only one of these dragons has been featured prominently in the show, the emotional weight of their loss will profoundly impact the audience, particularly given the brutal circumstances surrounding these events.

In conclusion, as we gear up for the returns of battle and betrayal, it’s clear that House of the Dragon season 3 will not shy away from dramatic turns of fate. Each anticipated death will resonate with themes of loss and the relentless pursuit of power.

Source & Images