The Season 3 premiere of House of the Dragon delivered a devastating blow to fans with the death of Jacaerys 'Jace' Velaryon (Harry Collett). The episode depicted the Battle of the Gullet, a massive naval engagement that claimed several lives, including Jace's. However, the circumstances of his death differ from the source material, George R.R. Martin's Fire & Blood.
How Jace Dies in the TV Show
In the television adaptation, Jace's death occurs during the chaotic Battle of the Gullet. Rhaena Targaryen (Phoebe Campbell) attempts to aid the Blacks by riding the wild dragon Sheepstealer into battle. However, the dragon proves uncontrollable, nearly colliding with Baela Targaryen (Bethany Antonia) and causing chaos. This disruption forces Jace and his dragon Vermax to fly low, where they become vulnerable. Shakaro Lohar (Abigail Thorn) launches a spear tipped with an anchor that strikes Vermax, sending the dragon and Jace plummeting into the water. Vermax dies, but Jace frees himself from the saddle. As he surfaces, he is fatally shot with multiple arrows by the Triarchy.
Jace's Death in the Book Fire & Blood
In the novel, Jace's death shares the same outcome but unfolds under different circumstances. Jace goes to the Gullet not to prove himself in battle but to rescue his younger brothers, Aegon and Viserys, who are sailing to Pentos and become caught in the conflict with the Triarchy. Rhaena is not involved in his demise. During the fighting, Vermax flies too low and is struck by either a grapnel or a crossbow bolt, crashing into a wrecked ship. Jace manages to free himself but is killed by arrows, much like in the show.
Impact of Jace's Death
In both the book and the show, Jace's death hardens Rhaenyra Targaryen's (Emma D'Arcy) resolve to claim the Iron Throne. Harry Collett, who plays Jace, told Esquire: "There’s no way Jace couldn't have died. He had to for the future of the realm. It changes Rhaenyra's mindset, so it's all a great sacrifice."
House of the Dragon Season 3 is streaming on Sky Atlantic, NOW, and HBO Max in the UK & Ireland.
