A new prequel series to Game of Thrones, titled A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, is in production. Based on George R.R. Martin's "Tales of Dunk and Egg" novellas, the series is set approximately a century before the events of Game of Thrones and focuses on the adventures of Ser Duncan the Tall and his young squire, Egg.
Series Overview
A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms is the second prequel series set in the Game of Thrones universe, following House of the Dragon. Co-created by George R.R. Martin and Ira Parker, the series adopts a comparatively smaller scale and character-driven narrative. The first season is planned for six episodes.
Plot and Characters
The central characters are Ser Duncan "Dunk" the Tall, portrayed by Peter Claffey, and his young traveling companion, Egg, played by Dexter Sol Ansell. Dunk is depicted as a physically imposing hedge knight from the King's Landing slums, known for his adherence to a code of honor. He is also described as clumsy and soft-spoken. Flashbacks will explore Dunk's past experiences as a teenage squire. Egg, who seeks to become Dunk's squire, is presented as an observant young boy.
The narrative primarily follows Dunk's ambition to gain recognition by competing in a jousting tournament, where he intends to face members of the Targaryen family and various great houses. He encounters initial rejections due to his lack of noble status. The series is stated to offer a perspective from the "smallfolk," highlighting their daily lives and motivations, which contrasts with the high-stakes political conflicts and power struggles typically associated with the nobility in the franchise.
Tone and Thematic Elements
The series is described as possessing a distinct tone, initially lighthearted and jovial, incorporating bawdy humor. Showrunner Ira Parker has emphasized the dynamic interactions between Dunk and Egg as a core element of the show. While maintaining a lighter tone in its initial phases, the narrative is reported to evolve, eventually incorporating elements of palace intrigue and battles characteristic of the broader Game of Thrones universe. The first season is structured to conclude with a self-contained arc, reflecting the format of its source material. The series also explores themes such as maintaining personal integrity amidst systemic challenges, with betrayal identified as a recurring element.
Production and Cast
George R.R. Martin and Ira Parker are credited as creators. The cast includes:
- Peter Claffey as Ser Duncan "Dunk" the Tall
- Dexter Sol Ansell as Egg
- Finn Bennett
- Tanzyn Crawford
- Sam Spruell
- Edward Ashley
- Henry Ashton
- Youssef Kerkour
- Shaun Thomas
- Danny Webb as Ser Arlan of Pennytree
- Bertie Carvel as Prince Baelor Targaryen
- Daniel Ings as Ser Lyonel Baratheon
The series has been renewed for a second season.
Release Information
A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms was reported to be scheduled for premiere in January. One source indicated a premiere date of January 19 on HBO Max, while another stated January 18.