Prequel Episode Uncovers Hidden Targaryen Heritage
The latest episode of HBO’s A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms stunned audiences with a revelation about the young squire Egg, confirming his true identity as Aegon V Targaryen. The disclosure sparked renewed interest in how this prequel connects to the original Game of Thrones saga.
The Truth Behind Egg’s Disguise
Played by Dexter Sol Ansell, Egg had concealed his royal lineage from traveling companion Ser Duncan the Tall (Peter Claffey). Despite shaving his head to hide his distinctive Targaryen features, the character’s emerging white-blonde hair signaled his noble bloodline. This deception stemmed from Egg’s fear of inheriting the madness that plagued his ancestors through generations of inbreeding.
Egg’s Relationship to the Mad King
Contrary to fan speculation, Aegon V Targaryen did not become the Mad King featured in Game of Thrones. Historical records show Egg served as ruler of Westeros before passing the Iron Throne to his son Jaehaerys II. The notorious Mad King Aerys II Targaryen (portrayed by David Rintoul in the original series) was Egg’s grandson, whose catastrophic reign ultimately ended Targaryen rule.
A Dynasty Plagued by Instability
Multiple Targaryens displayed signs of mental instability throughout Westerosi history. Beyond Aerys II, notable examples include King Baelor I, Prince Rhaegel, and Viserys Targaryen. The prequel also introduces Prince Aerion (Finn Bennett), nicknamed ‘Aerion the Monstrous,’ who already exhibits violent tendencies.
The final season of Game of Thrones suggested Daenerys Targaryen (Emilia Clarke) succumbed to hereditary madness when she destroyed King’s Landing following Missandei’s execution. This pattern of deterioration appears to validate Egg’s fears about his family’s genetic legacy.
Director Explains Prequel’s Reveal
Series director Sarah Adina Smith addressed the pivotal identity disclosure during HBO’s behind-the-scenes feature: “For longtime fans of the source material, this reveal was anticipated. For new viewers, we aimed to make it a surprising yet earned moment through careful visual storytelling.”
The production team reportedly included numerous clues about Egg’s heritage throughout earlier episodes, rewarding attentive viewers who noticed subtle foreshadowing.
A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms continues its weekly broadcast schedule on HBO platforms in the United States and Sky Atlantic in the United Kingdom.
