Why Corlys Calls Rhaenyra’s Sons Bastards

SPOILER ALERT: This article contains spoilers for Season 3, Episode 3 of “House of the Dragon,” now streaming on HBO Max.

In the latest episode of “House of the Dragon,” Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen faced a shocking betrayal from her hand of the queen, Corlys Velaryon. During a heated moment in the halls of the Red Keep, Corlys publicly denounced Rhaenyra’s sons, accusing them of being bastards and challenging her to prove otherwise.

Corlys, played by Steve Toussaint, had always stood by Rhaenyra and her three oldest boys, despite rumors of their true parentage. However, when he asked Rhaenyra to acknowledge his own bastards, Addam and Alyn, as legitimate Velaryons, she refused. This rejection led to Corlys’s outburst, putting his life and position at risk.

Toussaint reflects on the scene, explaining that Corlys’s defiance stems from a place of resignation and acceptance of his fate. He recalls a scrapped scene from the first season, where Corlys faced death in battle but was ultimately saved. This experience has shaped Corlys’s mindset, making him unafraid of death and focused on securing the Velaryon lineage.

As the episode unfolds, viewers are left wondering about Corlys’s fate and how Rhaenyra will respond to the accusations against her sons. The tension between the two characters reaches a climax, highlighting the complex dynamics at play in the world of Westeros.

In an interview with Toussaint, he delves into the motivations behind Corlys’s actions. He believes that Corlys’s decision to challenge Rhaenyra stems from a desire to honor his late wife’s wishes and make amends for past mistakes. Despite his love for Rhaenyra’s sons, the pressure and guilt surrounding their true parentage push Corlys to a breaking point.

Overall, the latest episode of “House of the Dragon” adds layers to the characters of Corlys and Rhaenyra, setting the stage for further drama and conflict in the series. The intricate relationships and power struggles within the Targaryen family continue to drive the narrative forward, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.

As the story unfolds, the fate of Corlys Velaryon hangs in the balance, and only time will tell how his bold actions will impact the future of House Velaryon. Stay tuned for more twists and turns in the epic saga of “House of the Dragon.”