In the world of 'House of the Dragon,' where no character is safe, we bid farewell to Prince Jacaerys 'Jace' Velaryon, played by Harry Collett. Jace's demise in the Season 3 premiere serves as a stark reminder of the show's unforgiving nature. But how does an actor feel about such a pivotal moment in the story?
The Impactful Death
Jace's death in the Battle of the Gullet is a far cry from the typical boring demise. It's a heroic sacrifice, a true leader's move to protect his mother, Rhaenyra Targaryen. The young prince, despite his youth, makes a bold decision, unaware of the wild dragon Sheepstealer's presence. As Vermax, Jace's dragon, tries to escape Sheepstealer's fire, they fall victim to enemy forces, and Jace meets his end. It's a tragic yet epic scene, set to the stunning score of Ramin Djawadi.
Harry Collett's Perspective
Collett, the actor behind Jace, expresses satisfaction with his character's fate. He believes Jace's death is impactful and heroic, a true leader's sacrifice. Interestingly, Collett knew about Jace's fate years before filming, which he finds fortunate. He appreciates the show's approach of informing actors about their character's destiny, unlike some mean tactics employed in the industry.
A Supportive Cast
The death scene brought the cast together, with Collett's on-screen mother and stepfather, Emma D'Arcy and Matt Smith, showing up to support him. This unity among the cast adds a layer of authenticity to the show's production. Collett even took home Jace's sword and a model of Vermax's head as mementos, a unique keepsake from his time on the show.
The Show Must Go On
Despite fan disappointment, 'House of the Dragon' continues its journey. With Season 3 underway, the bodies will keep falling as the series nears its end. The show's unflinching portrayal of death keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, wondering who will survive the next episode.
Conclusion
Jace's death is a powerful moment in 'House of the Dragon,' and Collett's perspective adds a human element to the story. It's a reminder that behind every character, there's an actor bringing them to life. As the show progresses, we can expect more intense moments and the continued exploration of the complex dynamics within the Targaryen family.
