Westeros Withdrawals? Watch These Shows Until ‘House of the Dragon’ Returns
In the Game of Thrones prequel, House of the Dragon, the Targaryens rule and fire and blood reigns. Season two has left us on the edge of fire and blood literally raining down in Westeros. So until we get hit with that monsoon, here’s ten similar shows you can watch.
Game of Thrones
For those longing to return to the world of Westeros, Game of Thrones is the ultimate choice. Duh. As the predecessor to House of the Dragon, this iconic series is one of the greatest of all time. And it certainly set the standard for dark fantasy on television. (We don’t need to mention those last few seasons, okay).
It is set 172 years after the Dance of the Dragons, in a world where the Targaryens have had a mighty fall from grace and the other noble families of Westeros vie for the Iron Throne. This series is filled with plenty of politicking, complex characters, and more of the rich lore of Westeros. And it has some epic battle scenes for those who crave action (and dragons, of course).
Game of Thrones is quite literally a game of thrones. Power is ruthlessly pursued, alliances are fragile, and the stakes are life and death. Spanning eight seasons, the series offers a deep dive into the rise and fall of noble houses. The fight for the Iron Throne rages on. And then there’s the ever-present threat from beyond The Wall. Winter is coming, after all.
Whether you’re new to Westeros or looking to relive the epic saga, Game of Thrones is a perfect way to fill the void while you wait for the next chapter in the Targaryen dynasty.
The Witcher
The Witcher is an excellent choice for fans of House of the Dragon craving more dark fantasy.
Set in a grim world with monsters, magic, and moral grayness, this series feels like an even more magical cousin to House of the Dragon.
The show features Geralt of Rivia, a brooding monster hunter who goes on a harrowing journey. The intense sword fights, peculiar characters, and gritty, medieval backdrop give serious Westeros vibes.
As Geralt navigates through this world, facing both supernatural creatures and the darkest corners of humanity, viewers can expect to be drawn into a story that balances epic moments with deep moral dilemmas.
If you’re a fan of the storytelling and multiple plotlines in House of the Dragon, The Witcher, is a must-watch while you wait.
The Last Kingdom
The Last Kingdom is great for those who are drawn to tales of power, conquest, and the clash of cultures. Or anyone who had a borderline unhealthy obsession with Vikings as a child (not speaking from experience or anything 👀).
Set during the Viking invasions of England, this historical drama follows Uhtred of Bebbanburg. Torn between his Saxon birthright and the Viking people who raised him, he must find who he is for the sake of his people.
The series has true history blended with intense fictional storytelling. There’s battles, politics, more battles, and a protagonist who is constantly at odds with his place in the world.
It offers thrilling action and a thoughtful exploration of identity. Uhtred’s internal conflicts mirror the larger societal upheavals of his time. Similar to how Queen Rhaenyra’s personal and political conflicts are impacted by the society around her. (Self-actualization for the win).
This show is a good pick if you love history. If you want a world that has the same type of power struggles and brutal realities of Westeros, this is for you.
Want to see some familiar faces from House of the Dragon? Phia Saban (Helaena Targaryen), Ewan Mitchell (Aemond Targaryen), and Tom Taylor (Cregan Stark) also star in this series.
Vikings
Based around the mystical world of Norse mythology, Vikings follows the legendary Ragnar Lothbrok and his descendants. Detailing their rise from farmers to rulers, exploring new lands, and battling for power. (Again, another great pick for those obsessed with Vikings).
The Vikings are a group driven by ambition, destiny, and a thirst for power. (Very Targaryen of them). Needless to say, this leads to epic battles and intense rivalries.
The series takes a deep dive into the cultural and spiritual beliefs of the Norsemen. Capturing the thrill of their battles and offering a unique perspective on their ideas of fate, honor, and the gods. Mythology nerds unite, this is screaming your name.
Ragnar Lothbrok’s journey from a humble farmer to a legendary king also mirrors the rise and fall of great houses in Westeros. Every victory and loss shapes the future of his people. So if you enjoy the “anything could happen” aspect of House of the Dragon, prepare to be put on the edge of your seat with this series.
His Dark Materials
For the sci-fi enthusiasts out there, His Dark Materials is an exciting choice for fans who love House of the Dragon.
Set in a tangled multiverse, the series follows young Lyra Belacqua as she follows her destiny to uncover dark secrets about the fabric of her reality. (Anyone getting Aegon’s Dream vibes here?)
It details the fight against the Magisterium, an authoritarian church that sanctions people’s ability to contact their magic, so if you like conspiracy and fighting back against authority, this should be right up your alley.
Lyra’s journey features parallel worlds, mystical creatures known as dæmons, and a mysterious substance called Dust. Sounds interesting right? It’s a perfect appetizer while you wait for the next course of House of the Dragon.
The Wheel of Time
In The Wheel of Time, viewers are taken to a world where the fate of humanity hinges on the actions of a few.
Much like the Targaryens’ battles for power, this story centers on a group of characters with destinies that intertwine as they become tangled in conflict.
The series weaves together magic, politics, and the repetition of history, creating a narrative that is both expansive and intimate. The show features a dynamic cast of characters, each grappling with their roles in the tapestry of destiny. And did I mention there’s also ancient prophecies? (another point on the board for Aegon’s Dream, yessir).
For those interested in power, deep lore, and a unique take on time, The Wheel of Time offers a riveting experience while awaiting the return of the Targaryens.
Rome
This could be your Roman Empire–literally. A semi-oldie, but goodie, Rome is a historical drama that will feel like home for fans of House of the Dragon who appreciate complex characters, court politics, and the rise and fall of powerful families.
Set during the last days of the Roman Republic, the series tells about the rise of the Roman Empire. Much like the Targaryens, the characters in Rome are driven by ambition, loyalty, and the pursuit of power, resulting in rivalries, betrayals, and shifting alliances. (All the good stuff, amiright?).
The series brings the ancient city to life. It’s opulent, it’s brutal, it’s on the brink of massive change. (Sounds very House of the Dragon-y). The characters, from Julius Caesar and Mark Antony to Cleopatra, face the same struggles of power, loyalty, and betrayal that drive the Targaryens in Westeros.
You know what they say: when in Rome….you watch this damn show to distract from the current lack of dragons in your life.
Shadow and Bone
Set in the war-torn world of Ravka, Shadow and Bone follows Alina Starkov, a young soldier who discovers she possesses a rare and powerful ability that could change the fate of her nation. A young woman who is suddenly on the path to becoming immensely powerful? Spectacular, give me fourteen of them right now.
Alina’s ascent to being a key figure in a battle between light and darkness mirrors the epic rise of characters like Rhaenyra Targaryen. Both grappling with the weight of their newfound power and expectations.
The show also features a cast of morally gray characters, such as General Kirigan, whose motives are as shadowy as the forces he commands. As well as, The Crows, a ragtag gang of criminals who find themselves in the strangest situations.
With its stunning visuals, diverse cast, and a world literally split down the middle by dark forces, Shadow and Bone offers an epic story similar to House of the Dragon, making it a perfect addition to the watch roster.
Though you should proceed with caution if you choose to take a trip to the Grishaverse. Netflix canceled the show after just two seasons, so if you’re expecting more–just don’t (Netflix, count your days).
The Lord of The Rings: The Rings of Power
The Rings of Power is one of the top shows to ease the absence of House of the Dragon, especially if you’re also a fan of The Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Set in the Second Age of Middle-Earth, thousands of years before the events of The Lord of the Rings, the series explores the rise of Sauron, the forging of the Rings of Power, and the formation of iconic realms like Númenor.
The series weaves together the origin stories of iconic characters, like Galadriel and Elrond. It also introduces new characters whose destinies are tied to the fate of Middle-Earth. All must navigate a world where ancient legacies and looming threats shape every unpredictable moment. (Again, if you love never feeling safe while watching, this is for you).
Much like the tricky political struggles in Westeros, The Rings of Power delves into the power dynamics of different races and kingdoms, giving it a touch of reality.
The show is also on par with the scale of House of the Dragon when it comes to things like set design, effects, and cinematography, making it a visually appealing way to take your mind off of Westeros.
The Rings of Power returns for its second season on August 29th on Amazon Prime Video.
Medici
Medici is set in Renaissance Italy and chronicles the rise of the Medici family, who are motivated by a desire to maintain and expand their power. (Does this sound like a certain white-haired, inbred family?)
The show unpacks the political and personal tensions of Renaissance Florence, where art, religion, and politics intersect — and the Medicis are at the top.
The show’s portrayal of Lorenzo de’ Medici, known as “The Magnificent,” shows a leader who must balance personal ambition with the weight of his family’s legacy. He’s very similar to the likes of Daemon or Rhaenyra Targaryen (though less incest-y).
This show builds a stunning world. Grand palaces. The Vatican. The busy streets of Florence. It has everything to create a perfect blend of history and dramatic flair.
Medici offers something that fans of House of the Dragon will find both fresh and familiar. A focus on the complexities of power. The moral dilemmas of leadership. A dangerous game of influence. And Richard Madden and Sean Bean. Both of whom star in Game of Thrones as Robb and Ned Stark, if you’d like to see some more familiar faces from Westeros.
What’s Next For House of the Dragon?
In season three of House of the Dragon, we can expect the dragons to really start dancing. It’s going to be epic and I personally can’t wait for some of my least favorite characters to GO. (If you know what I mean). It seems like it will be forever, the space between seasons honestly feels like a battle in and of itself. But until the Targaryens fly back around next season, join me in watching these shows just to feel something.
Stay strong soldiers.
