Warning: This article contains spoilers for ‘House of the Dragon’ Season 3, Episode 2.Emma D’Arcy earned widespread praise for her powerful performance in ‘House of the Dragon’ Season 3, Episode 2. Shortly after the episode aired online, fans took to social media to praise the actor’s portrayal of Rhaenyra Targaryen, mourning the death of her eldest son, Prince Jacaerys “Jace” Velaryon.
Rhaenyra mourns Jace
The second episode of the new season opens in the aftermath of the devastating Battle of the Gullet, as Baela returns Jace’s body to Dragonstone. The emotional sequence sees Rhaenyra overcome with grief as she struggles to come to terms with the loss of her firstborn son and heir to the throne.
How Jace met his end
Jace, played by Harry Collett, was killed during the Season 3 premiere after he and his dragon, Vermax, were taken down by enemy arrows. As the dragon was dragged into the depths of the sea, Jace briefly resurfaced before being hit by arrows.Following its premiere on HBO, viewers flooded social media with praise for D’Arcy’s performance, particularly the opening sequence depicting Rhaenyra grieving Jace’s death. “Watching rhaenyra go through the stages of grief in just 3 minutes was heartbreaking.
Fans reacted to Emma’s performance
Another praised the actor’s performance, writing, “Emma D’Arcy’s performance is flawless. IMPECCABLE!”Others were equally moved by the emotional scenes, with one viewer posting, “rhaenyra calling a lifeless jace was gut-wrenching.”“That opening scene destroyed me. Rhaenyra you are so missing,” another fan wrote. Another said, “JACE. JACE? WHAT DID YOU DO? RHAENYRA’S REACTION TO JACE’S LOSS BROKEN MY HEART.”
Fans are rooting for Emma D’Arcy’s Emmy nomination
The show also sparked the first awards season conversation, with many fans calling for D’Arcy to receive an Emmy nomination — and even a win — for the episode. “Rhaenyra cried as she held Jace her first born and I cried for her Emma D’Arcy Emmy is yours!” One viewer posted while another added, “Ooh, Rhaenyra! Emma D’Arcy deserves an Emmy nomination.”Meanwhile Emma’s performance was widely celebrated and earned her Golden Globes nominations for Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series (Drama) for Season 1 and Season 2 and Saturn Award nominations. However, they have yet to receive a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for their work on the show.“House of the Dragon” premiered on June 22. The eight-part series will debut new episodes every Monday (IST).
