HBO has dropped the first teaser for season 3 of House of the Dragon, confirming that the fantasy prequel to Game of Thrones will be back in June 2026 in the United States. Based on George R. R. Martin’s book Fire & Blood, the series continues to explore the bloody Targaryen civil war, set nearly two hundred years before the events fans know from Westeros.
Season 3 and season 4: HBO doubles down on the Targaryens
Well before season 2 finished airing, HBO made it clear it was committed to this saga. The network officially ordered the third season in June 2024, just days ahead of the season 2 launch. Season 3 will once again consist of eight episodes.
Behind the scenes, Ryan Condal is now the sole showrunner steering the creative vision, while George R. R. Martin remains closely involved as co-creator and executive producer. Production on these new episodes ran from March 21 through October 2025, with key filming taking place at the Leavesden Studios in Watford.
HBO’s long-term strategy for the franchise is also clear: in November 2025, the network renewed the show for a fourth season, signaling its intention to tell the full arc of this devastating family conflict.
The first teaser hints at a house torn apart
The newly released footage focuses on a Targaryen dynasty on the verge of collapse. The civil war that erupted after the death of Prince Lucerys Velaryon is now fully underway, and the teaser underlines how deep the fractures have become between the rival factions.
On one side stand the supporters of Rhaenyra Targaryen; on the other, those rallying behind Aegon II. The teaser emphasizes this split, suggesting that the political scheming of earlier seasons is giving way to open warfare and personal vendettas.
One of the major narrative promises of season 3 is the inclusion of the Battle of the Gullet, a decisive engagement from Fire & Blood. Previously referenced in the story, this battle was pushed back when season 2’s episode count was shortened to eight. Its arrival now positions season 3 as a turning point in the conflict known as the Dance of the Dragons.
Cast: returning fan favorites and fresh faces
The core ensemble that has anchored the series so far is back for these eight new episodes. The main cast includes:
- Matt Smith as Daemon Targaryen
- Emma D’Arcy as Rhaenyra Targaryen
- Olivia Cooke as Alicent Hightower
- Ewan Mitchell as Aemond Targaryen
- Tom Glynn-Carney as Aegon II Targaryen
Season 3 also expands the world of the show with a slate of new characters and performers joining the ensemble:
- James Norton as Ormund Hightower
- Tommy Flanagan as Lord Roderick Dustin
- Dan Fogler as Ser Torrhen Manderly
- Tom Cullen as Ser Luthor Largent
- Annie Shapero as Alysanne Blackwood
Direction duties across the season are shared by Clare Kilner, Nina Lopez-Corrado, Andrij Parekh, and Loni Peristere, who will be shaping some of the show’s most pivotal confrontations to date.
How and where to watch season 3 in the United States
Season 3 is slated to premiere in June 2026 on HBO in the United States. American viewers will be able to follow the new episodes weekly as the Targaryen civil war escalates and the Dance of the Dragons enters an even deadlier phase.
With this new chapter, HBO continues to delve deeply into the mythology of the Targaryen dynasty, turning key moments from Fire & Blood—including the long-awaited Battle of the Gullet—into major television events.
The teaser now available gives audiences an early look at the clashes and betrayals that will define these eight episodes ahead of their June debut.
FAQ
When will House of the Dragon season 3 be released in the US?
Season 3 is scheduled to launch in June 2026 on HBO in the United States.
How many episodes are in season 3?
The third season is made up of eight episodes.
Who is running season 3 behind the scenes?
Ryan Condal serves as the showrunner and executive producer for season 3, with George R. R. Martin remaining involved as co-creator and executive producer.
Has the show already been renewed for season 4?
Yes. In November 2025, HBO officially ordered a fourth season, confirming that the story will continue beyond season 3.
