"Built something like three-quarters of it": House of the Dragon star talks about this 'most complex sequence' from upcoming Season 3

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HBO's "House Of The Dragon" Season 2 Premiere - Source: Getty

House of the Dragon Season 3 is looking to be more than a continuation of the Targaryen story—we can expect new and exciting ground to be broken for television! From dragons to betrayals, to struggles for power, this next season aims to take it all to an entirely new level.

As reported by Winteriscoming.net, actor Steve Toussaint, who portrays Lord Corlys Velaryon, talked about this 'most complex sequence' from the upcoming House of the Dragon Season 3. Toussaint did not provide many other details, other than mentioning that they had constructed a whole set for Corlys Velaryon's vessel, the Sea Snake (officially now retitled as The Queen Who Never Was in remembrance of Corlys' deceased spouse Rhaenys).

He said,

"That thing that you see being polished and cleaned in all of Season 2, they built something like three-quarters of it."

This isn't any ordinary battle—it's the much-anticipated Battle of the Gullet, a grand naval battle that was initially supposed to happen in Season 2 but has now been rescheduled to Season 3. And based on all the reports, the wait was worth it.


Battle of the Gullet postponed until House of the Dragon Season 3

One of the most violent and decisive battles in George R.R. Martin's Fire & Blood, the Battle of the Gullet, was originally scheduled for Season 2. The showrunner, Ryan Condal, and HBO officials, however, confirmed that the magnitude and intricacy of the battle were more time-consuming, expensive, and technically demanding than originally expected.

Rather than hurrying, they decided to make the jump to Season 3, which they dubbed

"Probably the most complex sequence that's ever been done for television."

This was a calculated move in order to give justice to the sheer magnitude of the event, which entails an enormous fleet, dragon riders, and catastrophic consequences.


Scale and set construction of House of the Dragon Season 3: A warship like no other

Steve Toussaint said that the production did everything in their power to recreate Corlys Velaryon's warship. About 75% of the ship was built in real life, so that the cast and crew could film in a completely immersive environment. You can walk through the cabins, Toussaint said, something that is all but unheard of in television production.

This sort of practical set-building indicates that the show remains committed to realism. Instead of using CGI throughout, the crew emphasized bringing tangible, gritty action to the screens, something more akin to reflecting the chaos and majesty of naval warfare within Westeros.


Battle details of House of the Dragon Season 3: Why the Gullet matters

In Westeros' history, the Battle of the Gullet is no insignificant battle—it's a bloody battle between the Velaryon navy, Targaryen dragonriders, and the Triarchy. Known for its heavy loss of life and political stakes, it's a turning point during the Targaryen civil war known as the Dance of the Dragons.

As per Comicbook, SlashFilm, Game Rant, and cast hints, this fight will most probably initiate Season 3 with a dramatic and explosive start. The inclusion of dragons provides a level of unpredictability and spectacle that is in high demand from the fans.


Real locations add to the drama

To add even more realism to House of the Dragon Season 3, production is underway in real historical locations, such as Snowdonia National Park in Wales. The mountainous landscape and foggy conditions are an apt setting for the brutal realities of war.

Castles are also being utilized for some scenes to add authenticity and minimize the use of digital set extensions. These choices not only benefit the story but also add greatly to the production value.


What else to expect in House of the Dragon Season 3?

While the Battle of the Gullet is poised to be the show’s centerpiece, Season 3 will also delve deeper into the fallout of war, shifting alliances, crumbling dynasties, and more dragon-fueled devastation. Several major events from Fire & Blood are expected to be adapted, though specific plotlines remain under wraps for now.

The showrunners have officially confirmed that this part of the story will be darker, more turbulent, and emotionally charged. With so many players fighting for dominance, betrayals and reversals are bound to happen.


Release timeline of House of the Dragon Season 3

Production on Season 3 is ongoing and expected to go on till 2025. Considering the post-production requirements of a battle as massive and complex as the Gullet, a 2026 premiere is the most realistic prediction.

This longer production timeline shows the degree of detail and effort being invested in the season. High-end visual effects, choreographed dragon fight scenes, and big naval battles don't make themselves.


The commitment to pushing the Battle of the Gullet back to Season 3 wasn't a matter of scheduling—it was a matter of vision. From giant warships constructed for realism to real-world locations filmed on location, House of the Dragon is hoping to produce something television has never produced before.

And as if you wanted evidence of scale? Just recall what Toussaint said—they "Built something like three-quarters of it".


Also read: “It’s going to be better than ever”: HBO executive teases House Of The Dragon Season 3 will begin with an epic battle

Edited by IRMA