The latest episode of HBO's "House of the Dragon" delivered one of the series' most crushing blows, and its stars are now opening up about the emotional fallout from a pivotal moment that reshapes the Targaryen civil war .

The episode opens with Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen receiving the devastating news that her son and heir, Jacaerys Velaryon, has been killed during the Battle of the Gullet . Actor Harry Collett, who portrayed Jace, described his character's death as a heroic end that is both "impactful" and reminiscent of "Game of Thrones" infamous Red Wedding in its significance .

Emma D'Arcy, who plays Rhaenyra, described filming the scene as emotionally grueling, explaining that the loss is "an insurmountable reality" for their character . D'Arcy noted that Rhaenyra's first instinct is "utter denial" as she tries to push back against the terrible truth, calling it "a hard day at work" . They also praised Harry Collett for providing quiet support before filming and checking in afterward to ensure they were coping .

The episode concludes with Rhaenyra and Daemon Targaryen seizing control of the Red Keep following Otto Hightower's execution . Yet even in victory, D'Arcy revealed that Rhaenyra still craves Alicent Hightower's approval, perceiving her as "her judge and jury" .

Matt Smith, who plays Daemon, described returning to the Red Keep set as "a bit like returning home" after spending much of the previous season away from the iconic location . With the war intensifying and alliances shifting, the loss of Jace promises to have profound consequences for Rhaenyra's campaign and the future of House Targaryen .