Why Ser Duncan the Tall Is Central to A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms

Production is officially underway on HBO’s next major “Game of Thrones” series. “A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: The Hedge Knight” has started filming in the United Kingdom. The show is set to explore a previously unseen era of Westerosi history. According to HBO, the series is expected to premiere in late 2025.

The project was officially greenlit by HBO in April 2023. It is based on George R.R. Martin’s “Dunk and Egg” novellas. The story is set about a century after “House of the Dragon” and nearly a century before the events of “Game of Thrones.” This timeline positions it perfectly within the expanding live-action universe.

A New Hero Rises in Westeros

The series will focus on the adventures of Ser Duncan the Tall and his young squire, Egg. Dunk is a humble, wandering knight not born into nobility. His squire, Egg, is secretly Aegon V Targaryen, a future king of Westeros. Their journey together forms the heart of the story.

This new show promises a different tone from its predecessors. It is described as a character-driven road trip through Westeros. The narrative will be smaller in scale than the epic wars for the Iron Throne. This allows for a deeper exploration of the common people and everyday life in the Seven Kingdoms.

Expanding the Game of Thrones Universe

The success of “House of the Dragon” proved the enduring demand for stories from this world. “A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms” represents a strategic expansion for HBO. It moves beyond the Targaryen civil war narrative to explore a different genre within the same setting. This approach helps prevent audience fatigue.

Fans of the main series will discover crucial connections. Characters and events in this prequel have direct influences on the “Game of Thrones” storyline. The series will show the formation of legends that characters like Ned Stark grew up hearing. It adds rich historical context to the world viewers already know.

The production of “A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms” marks a significant commitment to the future of the franchise. This new series will offer a fresh perspective on the world of Westeros. It solidifies HBO’s strategy for a long-term “Game of Thrones” universe.

Info at your fingertips

What is “A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms” about?

It follows the adventures of Ser Duncan the Tall, a knight, and his squire Egg. Their story is based on George R.R. Martin’s “Dunk and Egg” novellas. The tone is more of a wandering adventure across Westeros.

When will the series be released?

HBO has confirmed a 2025 release window. An exact premiere date has not yet been announced. Filming began in the first half of 2024.

Who are the main characters?

Peter Claffey plays Ser Duncan the Tall, the main knight. Dexter Sol Ansell plays his squire, Egg, who is secretly Aegon V Targaryen. Their relationship is the core of the series.

How is this show connected to Game of Thrones?

It is set nearly 100 years before the events of “Game of Thrones.” The actions of Dunk and Egg directly influence the history and families seen in the original series. It provides deep background lore for the world.

Is this a replacement for “House of the Dragon”?

No, it is a separate series that will run alongside “House of the Dragon.” The two shows are set in different time periods. They offer distinct stories within the same universe.