Fans of the *Game of Thrones* universe are eagerly anticipating the release of HBO’s upcoming prequel series, *Aegon’s Conquest*. Set to explore the origins of the Iron Throne, the show aims to delve into the legendary campaign of Aegon I Targaryen, the first king of a unified Westeros. While it has not yet received an official greenlight, industry insights suggest a potential release window of late 2027 or 2028.
As of mid-2025, script development is actively underway, with Mattson Tomlin, known for his work on *The Batman*, leading the writing team. HBO is strategically managing its release schedule to avoid overwhelming audiences, particularly with *House of the Dragon* Season 3 expected to debut in 2026. This careful planning indicates that production for *Aegon’s Conquest* might not commence until early 2027, pushing its premiere further into the decade.
Storyline and Themes
*Aegon’s Conquest* will chronicle the exploits of Aegon I Targaryen, who, alongside his sister-wives Visenya and Rhaenys, launched a dragon-backed invasion nearly 300 years before the events of *Game of Thrones*. This campaign not only reshaped the political landscape of Westeros but also led to the creation of the infamous Iron Throne.
The series is set to explore the multifaceted nature of empire-building, addressing both the battles and the moral implications of conquest. Tomlin has indicated that the narrative will draw inspiration from real-world historical events, such as the Romanian Revolution, providing a poignant reflection on the consequences of power and ambition. Collaborating closely with George R.R. Martin, the series aims to maintain authenticity while injecting fresh emotional depth into the storyline.
Creative Development and Casting Speculation
Confirmed in early 2024, *Aegon’s Conquest* is currently in the scripting phase. Although HBO has not officially greenlit the project, the involvement of Tomlin and Martin suggests strong momentum. Fan enthusiasm for Targaryen history further fuels anticipation, positioning *Aegon’s Conquest* as one of the most awaited additions to the *Thrones* franchise.
While no casting announcements have been made, speculation is rife regarding potential actors. Henry Cavill is a favored choice for the role of Aegon I, thanks to his commanding presence and prior experience in fantasy genres. The casting of Visenya and Rhaenys Targaryen will be critical, as these characters are essential to the storyline. Additionally, Aegon’s sons, Aenys and Maegor the Cruel, are expected to have significant roles, especially if the series extends beyond the initial conquest narrative.
As the show is expected to connect with themes introduced in *House of the Dragon*, viewers can anticipate links to the Targaryen obsession with prophetic visions. For example, King Viserys I mentions a dream about the necessity of a united Westeros, a theme likely to resonate with Aegon’s motivations during his conquest.
The potential of *Aegon’s Conquest* to vividly portray one of Westeros’ most transformative eras is considerable. With Tomlin’s writing and Martin’s creative involvement, the series is poised to become a significant entry in HBO’s lineup of fantasy programming. Although the wait for a late 2027 or 2028 release may seem lengthy, the prospect of witnessing the rise of dragons and the birth of an empire promises to be an enticing journey for fans.
