The long-awaited third season of HBO's fantasy epic, House Of The Dragon, has launched, immediately plunging viewers into the heart of the Dance of the Dragons with a particularly violent and pivotal sea battle. Premiering in the UK on June 21, 2026, with episodes available on NOW and HBO Max, the series continues to explore the tumultuous events leading to the Targaryen civil war, set two centuries before the world of Game Of Thrones. Based on George R.R. Martin’s extensive historical work, Fire & Blood, this season is expected to escalate the conflict dramatically.
The opening episode of season three depicted the Battle Of The Gullet, an engagement described as the bloodiest naval confrontation in Westeros’ history. As is characteristic of the franchise, such a large-scale conflict inevitably brought about the demise of several notable figures. Among the most impactful deaths was that of Jace Velaryon (Harry Collett), son of Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen (Emma D’Arcy), who fell during the battle alongside his dragon, Vermax. This loss is anticipated to profoundly influence Rhaenyra's already fierce determination to secure the Iron Throne.
Other significant casualties during the Battle Of The Gullet included Sharako Lohar (Abigail Thorn), who was reportedly killed by Alyn Of Hull (Abubakar Salim), Lord Corlys Velaryon’s illegitimate son, during a direct confrontation. Furthermore, Sharako Lohar appeared to dispatch her former ally, Tyland Lannister (Jefferson Hall), by pushing him overboard. While Tyland's death was not explicitly confirmed on screen, the circumstances, including the weight of his armour and the treacherous waters, suggest a low probability of survival. The episode also confirmed the off-screen death of Jason Lannister (Jefferson Hall), Tyland’s twin brother, whose severed head was presented to Daemon (Matt Smith).
The fate of Lord Corlys Velaryon (Steve Toussaint) was left ambiguous at the close of the episode. He was seen falling into the sea during the battle, but his death was not depicted directly. This ambiguity aligns with Martin's source material, Fire & Blood, where Corlys Velaryon is known to survive the Battle Of The Gullet. Therefore, while his immediate survival is uncertain within the episode's context, fans of the books will likely anticipate his return.
The premiere's high body count and dramatic events set a grim tone for the rest of the season, promising a brutal escalation of the war for succession. The series has consistently garnered significant attention, building on the legacy of its predecessor, and this new season is expected to be a major talking point in UK entertainment, continuing to draw large audiences to its intricate political machinations and dragon-filled warfare.