Milly Alcock: 'High-Up' Advised Acting Coach on 'House of the Dragon' Set

Milly Alcock, the Australian actress who brought to life the young Rhaenyra Targaryen in the acclaimed series "House of the Dragon," faced a challenging start to her role. Just two days into filming, someone in a high-ranking position suggested she should take acting coaching, a moment she described as mortifying during her appearance on "The Tonight Show."

"On my second day on House of the Dragon, one of the, I’m not gonna say who, but someone very high up, pulled me aside and was like, 'Um, we’re gonna get you an acting coach,'" Alcock recounted, adding that the experience was incredibly humbling. In a light-hearted tone, she remarked, "It just confirmed everything that I’ve kind of known to be true, [which] is that I’m not very good at my job," joking about her initial doubts and the overwhelming feeling that she might not be up to the task.

Despite these early challenges, Alcock's portrayal of King Viserys I Targaryen's daughter and heir in "House of the Dragon" has been well-received. She starred as a series regular in Season 1 and made a guest appearance in Season 2, which chronicles the decline of House Targaryen. Emma D’Arcy takes over the role of the adult Rhaenyra, who eventually ascends to the throne.

Milly Alcock's performance as Rhaenyra Targaryen has contributed to the success of "House of the Dragon," which premiered in August 2022, shortly after the final episode of the original "Game of Thrones" series. The spinoff was swiftly renewed for a second season just days after its debut and secured a Season 3 renewal in June 2024, even before the start of Season 2. The series also clinched the Golden Globe for Best Television Series — Drama.

Looking ahead, Alcock is set to take on the role of Kara Zor-El / Supergirl in the upcoming "Superman" movie this summer and the "Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow" film next year. While "House of the Dragon" is confirmed for a third season, an official release date has yet to be announced.