House of the Dragon's Most Complex & Interesting Character by Far Isn't Who We Expected

While House of the Dragon quickly became an HBO sensation thanks to its deep dive into Targaryen customs and history, season 2 will have to keep viewers enthralled with the twists and turns of a war between two branches of a family. Given all the experience the show's creators have had with Game of Thrones, that should not be difficult.

In fact, judging by the first episode, which premiered on Sunday, June 16, the second season is going to be quite a change. In the first hour, viewers got a glimpse of how the Greens' court is holding up in King's Landing, while Rhaenyra mourns the death of her second son. And even that had its surprises.

What Happened to King Aegon in House of the Dragon?

When Aegon was crowned king at the end of the first season, viewers expected the worst from him. The firstborn, who clearly lacked the love and attention of his parents, ended up being a drunkard with a deep hatred for his own family and many violent tendencies. Certainly not a king you'd want to see on the throne.

However, confident that she was fulfilling Viserys' deathbed wish, Alicent made sure he was the one to take power, and all fans were left fearing the consequences. The second season, however, took a turn for the better, leaving everyone deeply confused but eager to see more.

The premiere episode of season 2, A Son for a Son, showed King Aegon II in a completely different light. First, he was having fun with his young son, the next in line to the throne, and then he showed true compassion for the smallfolk.

While he was guided by the Hand, Otto Hightower, and not allowed to act on his own good impulses, his interest in the common workers and their struggles contrasted with everyone else's approach. Even Rhaenyra, whom many people have been rooting for since season 1, has previously disregarded the opinions of the smallfolk.

While there is no doubt that Aegon will show his violent side in the near future as he avenges his son's murder, this glimpse into his gentle way of governing has made House of the Dragon fans reevaluate their opinions of the character and given Aegon a newfound appreciation from those who rushed to judgment.

If you are interested in seeing where the show takes King Aegon II and his court, be sure to tune into House of the Dragon season 2 every Sunday on HBO.