“Knight of the Seven Kingdoms S1 Review: Westeros Captivates Again”

HBO is bringing fans back to Westeros with its upcoming series, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms. This new show is set 90 years before the events of Game of Thrones. It is based on George R.R. Martin’s prequel novellas, particularly the first one titled The Hedge Knight.

A New Adventure in Westeros

The series follows the journey of Ser Duncan the Tall, known as Dunk, played by Peter Claffey. After the death of his mentor, Ser Arlan of Pennytree, Dunk decides to enter a tournament to honor him. Along the way, he acquires a young squire named Egg, portrayed by Dexter Sol Ansell. Their partnership becomes central to the narrative, filled with humor, violence, and themes of honor.

Character Highlights

• Dunk (Peter Claffey): A likable, comedic hero with a strong presence.
• Egg (Dexter Sol Ansell): A clever and sensitive young squire who enriches the story.
• Prince Baelor Targaryen (Bertie Carvel): The honorable heir to the Iron Throne.
• Prince Maekar Targaryen (Sam Spurell): Baelor’s tough and gritty brother.
• Prince Aerion Targaryen (Finn Bennett): A sadistic villain adding tension to the plot.
• Ser Lyonel Baratheon (Daniel Ings): The boisterous reveller at the tournament.
• Raymun Fossoway (Shaun Thomas): A loyal yet opinionated character.

Comedy and Conflict

The series combines medieval themes with a buddy comedy approach. While the humor begins with amusing sequences, such as Dunk’s toilet humor, it quickly evolves into a clever and engaging dynamic between Dunk and Egg. Their interactions provide both comedic moments and emotional depth, reminiscent of classic pairings from Game of Thrones.

Faithful Adaptation

remains largely faithful to Martin’s source material. The show’s creators have added depth to characters while respecting the original storyline. This commitment to loyalty could indicate a brighter future for the series, especially as it moves toward potential future seasons.

Premiere Details

The first season of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms consists of six episodes and premieres on January 19, 2026, on Sky Atlantic and NOW. In the United States, it will air on HBO.

Fans of the franchise can also catch up on Game of Thrones seasons 1-8 and House of the Dragon seasons 1 and 2, available to stream on Sky and NOW. This show promises to bring a fresh yet familiar flavor to the beloved world of Westeros, drawing viewers back into its intricate politics and captivating stories. For more insights and entertainment recommendations, explore the dedicated Fantasy hub on El-Balad.