Actor Benjamin Evan Ainsworth Unites 'House of the Dragon' and 'Zelda' in Surprising Connection

Benjamin Evan Ainsworth's portrayal of Daeron Targaryen in House of the Dragon Season 3 was a remarkably well-kept secret, adding a layer of intrigue to the show's narrative. The season initially presented a clever bait-and-switch, with Ormund Hightower (James Norton) introducing a lowborn boy disguised as Alicent's (Olivia Cooke) prodigal son. However, the dowager queen quickly exposed the imposter, confirming Ormund's strategic maneuver to position the real Daeron as a formidable rival to Rhaenyra's (Emma D'Arcy) claim to the throne. In a recent interview, Ainsworth delved into the pivotal moments of his character, offering insights into Daeron's complex relationships and personal journey.

A significant aspect of Daeron's character development revolves around the stark differences in his relationships with Ormund Hightower and Gwayne (Freddie Fox). Ainsworth explained that while both relationships contain a degree of love, one is undeniably more twisted. Ormund serves as a domineering, almost parental figure, embodying the powerful tug towards the Hightower side and positioning Daeron "between a rock and a hard place" amidst the brewing Targaryen-Hightower conflict. In contrast, Gwayne represents a more brotherly and parental presence, someone Daeron can engage with on an equal footing. Gwayne offers Daeron a crucial opportunity to express his true self, shedding the layers of protection he has built up in Ormund's presence. Ainsworth expressed his admiration for Freddie Fox, mirroring Daeron's perception of Gwayne as an honorable and balanced individual who provides a much-needed point of refuge.

Daeron's past, particularly his being sent away to ward in Oldtown at a young age, has profoundly shaped his emotional landscape, leading to a sense of isolation. This separation from King's Landing shielded him from the immediate political turmoil but also created a significant distance from his mother, Alicent. Ainsworth revealed that Daeron harbors a deep longing for connection and love, which largely drives his compliance with Ormund's demands. Gwayne becomes the closest point of contact Daeron has to Alicent, offering a lifeline to his missing mother. In moments alone with Gwayne, Daeron drops his act, confirming the genuine closeness between them and his yearning for information about Alicent, signaling a desire for a maternal connection he was denied.

The assassination attempt orchestrated by Rhaenyra's forces proved to be a critical turning point, starkly revealing Ormund's vulnerabilities and Gwayne's protective capabilities. During the chaotic scene, Ormund's extreme distaste for odors becomes debilitating, causing him to recoil and miss crucial details that Gwayne readily observes. It is Gwayne who steps in to protect Daeron, highlighting Ormund's significant weakness under pressure. Ainsworth described this as a moment of revelation for Daeron, forcing him to reevaluate the stakes and realize that Gwayne, with his clearheadedness, might be better equipped to ensure his safety than the easily incapacitated Ormund. This harrowing experience, which Ainsworth humorously dubbed his "most Game of Thrones day ever" due to the blood, dead bodies, swords, and "sick," underscored the severe danger Daeron faces now that Ormund has positioned him as a rival king.

Beyond the intense drama, the interview also touched upon Ainsworth's preparation for action sequences. Daeron's sword sparring in the courtyard, seen towards the episode's end, serves a dual purpose: a form of avoidance from the surrounding chaos and a means to prove his ability to protect himself, particularly under Ormund's watchful eye. This training on House of the Dragon had an unexpected benefit for Ainsworth's next major role. He disclosed that the stunt training, which involved sessions with the show's "wonderful stunt team" for sword work, provided invaluable preparation for playing Link in the upcoming Legend of Zelda movie. Ainsworth noted the insightful practice he gained with swords and even shared a fun continuity detail: a stunt guy from House of the Dragon also joined The Legend of Zelda movie production, bridging his experiences on both high-profile projects.