Matt Smith has always been surprisingly charismatic when it comes to the roles he played in prominent shows such as Doctor Who, The Crown, and most recently, House of the Dragon’s Daemon Targaryen. However, fan reactions to ‘loving’ his character on HOTD remains questionable and concerning, considering the fact he is not a man one would ideally date in real life, as pointed out by the show’s writer and executive producer, Sara Hess.
Hess’ reaction is understandable, considering that some of Daemon Targaryen’s deeds have never been things you would seek in a boyfriend: Married his niece Rhaenyra Targaryen, Committed numerous heinous acts over the years to gain Rhaenyra’s trust, Killed his first wife Lady Rhea Royce, and Executed Vaemond Velaryon in Viserys’ throne room. However, despite his brutal actions in order to gain the power he seeks, he still gained fans over the course of the series.
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, House of the Dragon writer and executive producer Sara Hess unleashes her bafflement at fans lusting after Prince Daemon Targaryen. Hess admits the actor was perfect for the role and did a splendid job, but was taken aback by how much fans have been taken in by his charm and charisma.
“He’s become Internet Boyfriend in a way that baffles me. Not that Matt isn’t incredibly charismatic and wonderful, and he’s incredible in the role. But Daemon himself is… I don’t want him to be my boyfriend! I’m a little baffled how they’re all, ‘Oh, daddy!’ And I’m just like, ‘Really?’ How — in what way — was he a good partner, father or brother — to anybody? You got me.”
This isn’t the first time the internet has claimed a problematic and controversial TV character as the ideal ‘Internet Boyfriend’, what with Evan Peters' serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer also garnering equal attention and ‘affection’ that may have been meant towards the actors delivering the said role, rather than rooting for the actual person the actors were portraying.
Needless to say, this spark from fans will definitely affect the way Daemon will be portrayed in the next upcoming seasons.
The latest episode of House of the Dragon is now available on HBO Max. House of the Dragon Episode 10: The Black Queen will premiere on Sunday, October 23, 2022, at 9:00 PM EST.
Also Read: House of the Dragon Episode 10 Preview Teases The Start of the Dance of the Dragons
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