Ewan Mitchell has become a recognisable face in the realm of television since stepping into the role of Aemond Targaryen in HBO’s acclaimed series, ‘House of the Dragon’. First appearing in 2022, the 29-year-old actor has taken on one of the show’s most complex and menacing characters, which has had a significant impact on how fans perceive him in daily life.
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In a recent interview, Mitchell shared with PEOPLE the unexpected reactions he encounters from fans while out and about. The striking nature of Aemond’s character, notorious for his fierce temperament, has not only made for gripping viewing but has also influenced how others interact with Mitchell when he is off-screen. “I’ve had people move out of the way for me,” he mentioned, reflecting on his experiences since portraying the character.
One particularly memorable incident occurred a few years ago, during the airing of the show’s second season. Mitchell found himself navigating a crowded airport, racing against the clock to get to his gate. “I remember stressing, ‘Oh my God, I’ve got to get from this side of the airport to the other side in less than five minutes,'” he recounted. “And I had so little resistance. Because people would stop and stare as I was running past them.” This humorous incident highlights how Aemond’s fearsome persona has seeped into the public’s perception of Mitchell.
Mitchell also joked about his tactics for navigating crowds more efficiently. “When in doubt, when I’ve got to get somewhere fast, [I’ll put Aemond’s wig on],” he quipped, using humour to diffuse the intensity surrounding the character’s reputation.
As the show’s third season premiered on June 22, audiences can expect the same level of intensity that has characterised Aemond’s story arc. The first episode of the new season features a particularly shocking moment where Aemond shares a kiss with his mother, Alicent, played by Olivia Cooke. Describing the scene as “quite a difficult pill to swallow”, Mitchell reflected on the unsettling nature of the moment. “It’s kind of makes you want to throw up in your mouth a little bit,” he added, indicating the complex familial dynamics at play in this mythical world.
Mitchell elaborated on Aemond’s character development, explaining how a lack of maternal affection shaped his perception of love. “Aemond, growing up, he never felt like he was loved enough by his mum and his family around him,” he explained. “A kid needs that unconditional love to develop a balanced view of themselves. Because he never had that, he’s got a very skewed perception and a very strange way of showing love.” According to Mitchell, this dysfunction is exemplified in the audacious scene from the season premiere.
Olivia Cooke shared her own thoughts about the kiss, describing it as “quite odd for both of us.” As Alicent, she navigates the delicate balance of her son’s dangerous disposition. Given Aemond’s volatile nature, Cooke reflected on the risks associated with their characters’ interaction: “She knows that one wrong facial expression, one perceived rejection, will cost her her life. So she’s trying to tread very, very carefully.” Her commentary highlights the tension and complexity inherent in their relationships, adding depth to the characters they portray.
As audiences eagerly await the next episodes of ‘House of the Dragon’, which air Sundays at 9 p.m. ET on HBO and HBO Max, the intricate dynamics within the Targaryen family promise to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. While the world of Westeros may be filled with dragons and political intrigue, Mitchell’s portrayal of Aemond reminds fans of the profound human emotions that underlie these fantastical narratives.
Ewan Mitchell’s journey as Aemond Targaryen not only captivates audiences but also affects how he is perceived in public. The actor’s ability to evoke such strong reactions testifies to his talent and the compelling nature of the character, ensuring that ‘House of the Dragon’ remains a significant part of contemporary television discussion. With each new episode, the series invites viewers to delve deeper into the complexities of loyalty, love, and the consequences of power.