The highly anticipated new series, “The Knight of the Seven Kingdoms,” a fresh spin-off from the acclaimed “Game of Thrones” universe, is set to premiere on HBO and HBO Max on Sunday, January 18, 2026. This latest installment follows the successful “House of the Dragon” and aims to broaden the rich tapestry of Westeros by exploring an earlier period.
Unlike its predecessors known for their intense drama and dark themes, the new production promises a notably lighter and more comedic approach. Actors Peter Claffey, who portrays Ser Duncan the Tall, known as Dunk, and Dexter Sol Ansell, cast as Egg, recently provided insight into the series’ unique tonal shift during their visit to Brazil.
The duo, who captivated audiences during their appearance at CCXP in São Paulo in December 2025, expressed their profound honor in leading a narrative within George R. R. Martin’s beloved world. Their conversation touched upon the challenges of maintaining secrecy surrounding their roles, the dynamic chemistry on set, and the overwhelmingly positive reception from an eager global fanbase.
Set approximately 90 years before the events depicted in “House of the Dragon,” the series delves into an earlier era of Westeros, exploring the adventurous exploits of its central duo as they navigate a continent ripe with both opportunity and peril.
A new adventure unfolds in Westeros
“The Knight of the Seven Kingdoms” chronicles the adventures of Dunk, a young man from Flea Bottom, who receives an unexpected chance to elevate his station. Leaving his meager life in King’s Landing behind, he becomes the squire to a hedge knight, embarking on a journey that will define his destiny across the realm.
During his travels, Dunk encounters Egg, a ten-year-old boy, and decides to take him on as his own squire. Together, the unlikely pair traverses Westeros, seeking work and new adventures, forming a bond that underpins the series’ narrative and introduces viewers to a unique perspective on the storied lands.
Embracing a lighter narrative
Viewers accustomed to the somber and dramatic tone of “Game of Thrones” and “House of the Dragon” may find a refreshing change in “The Knight of the Seven Kingdoms.” The series features shorter episodes and adopts a more lighthearted approach, incorporating moments of comedy while still delivering emotional depth.
Peter Claffey shared his deep respect for the franchise, stating, “I am a huge fan of ‘Game of Thrones,’ so I know how passionate the fans can be. I hope we have done justice not only to those who watch the series but also to everyone who loves the books.” This commitment underscores the cast’s dedication to honoring Martin’s original vision.
Dexter Sol Ansell expressed the surreal nature of his role, noting, “My cousins are huge ‘Game of Thrones’ fans, and when they found out I got the part, they were shocked. It was like: ‘What?! My cousin is in a prequel to ‘Game of Thrones’? And not only that, he’s the main character?’ It was crazy.” His excitement reflects the significant impact the series holds.
The weight of secrecy and fan anticipation
Securing a role in such a globally adored universe is a remarkable achievement, yet the initial period of keeping it confidential presented significant challenges for the actors. Both Claffey and Ansell navigated this period with careful discretion.
Dexter found it particularly difficult to maintain secrecy for an extended period. He managed by simply avoiding the subject entirely, as he noted, “Nobody would ever ask something like that, especially to me. Nobody would come up and say, ‘Oh, did you audition for ‘Game of Thrones’?’ So it worked out. I didn’t tell anyone until the official announcement.”
Peter also faced the demanding task of keeping his involvement under wraps, choosing to share the news only with his closest family members. He recounted, “Keeping it a secret was also difficult. I only told my closest family.”
The eventual reveal of their casting brought a mix of relief and excitement. “It was great to finally be able to share the news. It was a little scary, but in the end, the reaction was very positive, which was incredible,” Claffey added, highlighting the supportive response from fans.
On-set camaraderie and practical magic
The atmosphere on the set of “The Knight of the Seven Kingdoms” was described as exceptionally positive, fostering a strong sense of community among the cast and crew. “It was great. We always commented on how incredible the cast was,” Peter Claffey stated, emphasizing the natural chemistry that developed.
This organic connection quickly translated into genuine friendships, which proved invaluable in bringing the complex characters to life. “The chemistry emerged very naturally because we quickly became friends. That helped a lot in exploring both the emotional and comedic moments,” Claffey explained. Dexter Sol Ansell also highlighted the impact of the production design, noting, “Everything you see on set is actually there. That was kind of shocking for me because I didn’t expect it.” This dedication to practical sets made the world of Westeros feel more tangible and facilitated a more immersive acting experience for the young performer.
Brazilian welcome and global appeal
During their visit to Brazil, both actors expressed immense satisfaction with their experience, embracing the local culture and hospitality. Dexter enthusiastically shared, “The trip was very long for me, but I spent the whole day in the pool. There’s no way around it, I love the pool. The weather is great and the people are very friendly.” Peter Claffey, accompanied by his girlfriend, also enjoyed his first trip to the country, noting, “My girlfriend came with me, so we went out and had some drinks. She’s loving these little holidays in Brazil.”
The universal love for the “Game of Thrones” universe deeply resonates with the actors, who are keenly aware of the passionate fanbase. Dexter reflected on the surreal nature of his burgeoning career, stating, “It’s kind of surreal. Every night I think about everything I’ve achieved, and I still can’t believe I’m an actor. And not only that, it’s incredible that such a big story is one of my first jobs.”
Adapting Martin’s acclaimed tales
“The Knight of the Seven Kingdoms” is directly based on George R. R. Martin’s acclaimed novellas, “Tales of Dunk and Egg,” which provide a rich foundation for the new series. These stories have long been favorites among fans of the broader “A Song of Ice and Fire” saga, offering a more intimate look at the lives of ordinary people and nascent heroes within the complex political landscape of Westeros. The adaptation aims to capture the essence of these beloved literary works while bringing their unique tone to the screen.
