HBO Drops First Official Trailer for ‘Game of Thrones’ Prequel ‘House of the Dragon’

HBO has shared the first official trailer for House of the Dragon, the platform’s upcoming Game of Thrones prequel series based on George R.R. Martin‘s novel Fire and Blood.

The show, which takes place 200 years prior to the events of the original Game of Thrones series, follows the tumultuous decline of the House of Targaryen and the start of the Targaryen civil war. Specifically, the battle ensues between siblings Aegon II and Rhaenyra, who fought for the throne following their father’s passing, and heightened tensions pit Westeros’ houses against each other.

House of the Dragon stars Paddy Considine as King Viserys I Targaryen, Matt Smith as Prince Daemon Targaryen,  Rhys Ifans as Otto Hightower, Olivia Cooke as Alicent Hightower, Emma D’Arcy as Princess Rhaenyra and Eve Best as Princess Rhaenys Velaryon, among others. Martin executive produced the series with Vince Gerardis, alongside showrunners Miguel Sapochnik and Ryan Condal.

Earlier this year, Martin shared his excitement for the series in a blog post, writing, “Exciting news out of London — I am informed that shooting has WRAPPED for the first season of HOUSE OF THE DRAGON.” He later disclosed that he had seen rough cuts of the series and confirmed that he is “loving” it.

House of the Dragon will premiere on HBO Max on August 21. Watch the official trailer above