The A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms cast is drawing strong attention across the United States as HBO’s newest Westeros series continues its first season. Since premiering on January 18, 2026, on HBO and Max, the show has introduced viewers to a fresh lineup of actors portraying beloved characters from George R.R. Martin’s Dunk and Egg novellas. With the season unfolding weekly, audiences are closely following the performances that shape this earlier chapter of Targaryen history.
Set roughly a century before the events of Game of Thrones, the series shifts focus from sprawling war campaigns to intimate character-driven storytelling. The casting choices reflect that shift. Each role centers on personality, honor, rivalry, and political tension rather than spectacle alone.
Below is a complete and current look at the confirmed ensemble as of February 16, 2026.
The Central Duo: Dunk and Egg
At the heart of the story stands an unlikely partnership between a towering hedge knight and a sharp-minded royal boy hiding his identity.
Peter Claffey as Ser Duncan “Dunk” the Tall
Peter Claffey leads the series as Ser Duncan the Tall. Dunk begins as a hedge knight of modest origins who inherits his title after the death of his mentor, Ser Arlan of Pennytree. Claffey portrays him with quiet strength and visible vulnerability.
Dunk’s physical stature contrasts with his uncertainty about court politics. His sense of honor drives many of the early conflicts in the season. Tournament scenes highlight his fighting ability, but his moral choices define the character more than his sword skills.
American viewers have responded strongly to Claffey’s grounded performance. He presents Dunk as relatable and principled rather than larger-than-life.
Dexter Sol Ansell as Prince Aegon “Egg” Targaryen
Dexter Sol Ansell plays Aegon Targaryen, known simply as Egg. Though he appears to be a humble squire, Egg is secretly a Targaryen prince traveling incognito.
Ansell brings intelligence and subtle wit to the role. Egg questions social hierarchy and often challenges Dunk’s assumptions. Their dialogue provides humor and emotional warmth amid political tension.
The chemistry between Claffey and Ansell anchors the entire series. Their mentor-student dynamic gives the show its heart and distinguishes it from previous Westeros stories.
The Targaryen Dynasty in Focus
Unlike House of the Dragon, which centered on large-scale succession wars, this series zooms in on personal rivalries within the royal family. Several key Targaryen figures shape the political environment.
Finn Bennett as Prince Aerion “Brightflame” Targaryen
Finn Bennett portrays Aerion, one of the most volatile members of the royal household. Known for his arrogance and cruelty, Aerion quickly becomes a major antagonist in the season’s early episodes.
Bennett’s performance leans into unpredictability. His confrontations with Dunk establish immediate stakes and test the hedge knight’s sense of justice.
Bertie Carvel as Prince Baelor Targaryen
Bertie Carvel plays Prince Baelor, a respected and honorable royal figure. Baelor stands in contrast to Aerion’s recklessness.
Carvel’s portrayal emphasizes calm authority. His character’s decisions carry significant weight during tournament events and family disputes. Baelor’s presence reinforces the idea that not all Targaryens embrace chaos.
Sam Spruell as Prince Maekar Targaryen
Sam Spruell takes on the role of Prince Maekar, father to Aerion and Egg. Maekar appears stern and disciplined, with a strong belief in duty.
Spruell delivers a performance marked by restraint and intensity. His scenes underscore the tension between royal expectations and individual identity.
Henry Ashton as Daeron Targaryen
Henry Ashton portrays Daeron, another member of the Targaryen family whose personality adds emotional complexity. Daeron’s storyline offers moments of vulnerability within the otherwise rigid royal structure.
His presence deepens the family dynamic and contributes to the broader exploration of loyalty and legacy.
Knights of the Realm and Noble Houses
Tournaments and chivalric rivalries shape much of the early action. Several knights and noble figures support the central narrative.
Daniel Ings as Ser Lyonel “The Laughing Storm” Baratheon
Daniel Ings plays Lyonel Baratheon, a formidable competitor in tournament combat. His confident demeanor and imposing style make him a standout in group scenes.
The Baratheon name carries weight in Westeros history. Ings portrays Lyonel with energy that commands attention.
Edward Ashley as Ser Steffon Fossoway
Edward Ashley brings depth to Ser Steffon Fossoway. Loyalty, ambition, and honor intersect in his storyline.
Steffon’s alliances and decisions influence tournament politics and noble tensions. Ashley delivers a performance grounded in subtle internal conflict.
Shaun Thomas as Raymun Fossoway
Shaun Thomas plays Raymun Fossoway, further developing the internal dynamics within House Fossoway. Raymun’s choices help illustrate how honor can clash with ambition.
Daniel Monks as Ser Manfred Dondarrion
Daniel Monks portrays Manfred Dondarrion, another skilled knight who participates in tournament battles. His presence reinforces the competitive environment surrounding Dunk.
Ross Anderson as Ser Humfrey Hardyng
Ross Anderson’s Humfrey Hardyng represents traditional knightly values. Hardyng’s interactions with Dunk emphasize differing interpretations of honor.
Steve Wall as Lord Leo Tyrell
Steve Wall appears as Lord Leo Tyrell. As a member of one of Westeros’ most influential houses, Leo’s involvement highlights the broader political landscape beyond the tournament grounds.
Danny Webb as Ser Arlan of Pennytree
Danny Webb portrays Ser Arlan, Dunk’s former mentor. Although Arlan’s time on screen is limited, his influence shapes Dunk’s moral compass throughout the series.
Youssef Kerkour as Steely Pate
Youssef Kerkour plays Steely Pate, a character who adds realism and texture to the world beyond noble courts.
Tom Vaughan-Lawlor as Plummer
Tom Vaughan-Lawlor appears as Plummer, a figure whose presence ties into unfolding political developments. His performance brings subtle tension to key scenes.
How the Casting Shapes the Series Tone
The A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms cast reflects a deliberate tonal shift within the franchise. The show focuses on character relationships rather than dragon warfare.
Short, dialogue-driven scenes dominate many episodes. That format allows actors to explore nuance. Viewers see the emotional cost of pride, honor, and ambition up close.
American audiences familiar with epic-scale battles now experience Westeros through tournaments, personal rivalries, and intimate political exchanges. The performances support that grounded approach.
Season One Structure and Release Schedule
Season 1 consists of six episodes airing weekly on Sunday nights. The rollout has encouraged steady online discussion among U.S. viewers.
Each episode builds on tournament events and escalating royal tensions. The pacing remains tight, and character development remains central.
HBO has confirmed that a second season is in development. The continuation will further adapt George R.R. Martin’s Dunk and Egg stories.
No cast departures or recasting announcements have been made as of mid-February 2026. The ensemble remains intact.
Audience Reception in the United States
Viewers across the U.S. have responded positively to the series’ focus on honor and moral dilemmas. Social media conversations highlight the strong chemistry between Claffey and Ansell.
Many fans appreciate the return to smaller-scale storytelling. The absence of large armies and constant spectacle allows actors to command attention through dialogue and expression.
The cast’s performances continue to generate momentum as the season progresses. Engagement remains high heading into the final episodes of the debut season.
What Makes This Ensemble Stand Out
Several factors set this group apart:
- Strong chemistry between the two leads
- Balanced mix of established and emerging actors
- Clear character motivations
- Emphasis on moral conflict rather than spectacle
- Faithful adaptation of beloved source material
Each cast member contributes to a cohesive narrative tone. The show avoids overcrowding the screen with excessive subplots. Instead, it lets performances carry emotional weight.
The A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms cast has firmly established itself as a compelling new chapter in HBO’s Westeros universe. With its blend of honor, rivalry, and political tension, the ensemble continues to shape a story that feels both intimate and epic.
Which actor has delivered your favorite performance so far? Join the conversation and stay tuned as the season moves toward its finale.