Rhaenys Targaryen

Passed over for the throne by tradition, she became a fierce defender of the rightful heir.

Rhaenys Targaryen, known throughout Westeros as 'The Queen Who Never Was,' is a formidable dragonrider and a central figure in the events leading to the Dance of the Dragons. She is Viserys I and Daemon Targaryen's first cousin and the wife of Corlys Velaryon. As the only child of Aemon Targaryen, the late heir apparent and oldest son of King Jaehaerys I, she was once a candidate to succeed her grandfather as ruler. However, she was passed over in favor of her younger cousin Viserys due to her gender. This pivotal moment defined her political stance as she navigated the complex succession crisis that would tear the realm apart.

Quick Facts

Character role: Dragonrider
First appearance: Seasons 1–2 of House of the Dragon
Dragon: Meleys (the 'Red Queen')
Spouse: Corlys Velaryon

Lore & Background

Rhaenys's life is marked by the injustice of being bypassed for the Iron Throne. Her father, Aemon Targaryen, was King Jaehaerys I's oldest son and heir apparent, and her mother was Jocelyn Baratheon, Jaehaerys's half-sister. As Aemon's only child, Rhaenys held a strong claim to succeed her grandfather, yet the council chose Viserys, her younger male cousin, instead. This decision established the precedent that would later fuel the conflict between the 'Blacks' and the 'Greens.' Despite this personal slight, she remained loyal to House Targaryen. She is married to Corlys Velaryon, known as 'the Sea Snake,' the Lord of Driftmark and head of one of the wealthiest families in the Seven Kingdoms. Together, they form a powerful alliance within the court.

Reader's Guide

Fans should recognize Rhaenys Targaryen for her unique position in the lineage: daughter of the former heir, cousin to the king, and wife to a naval legend. Her dragon, Meleys, distinguishes her from other female characters like Rhaenyra (Syrax) or Alicent's allies. She was passed over due to her gender, a fact that shapes her character's motivation. She is portrayed by Eve Best in seasons 1 and 2. Unlike some relatives who switched allegiances, her loyalty to the Targaryen cause remains consistent as a supporter of Rhaenyra. Her connection to House Velaryon through marriage strengthens the 'Black' faction's naval power.

Did You Know?

Rhaenys is married to Corlys Velaryon, the most famous seafarer in Westerosi history known as 'the Sea Snake'.
She is bonded to the dragon Meleys, also referred to as the 'Red Queen'.

Frequently Asked Questions

What dragon does Rhaenys Targaryen ride?

She is bonded with Meleys, a massive red dragon known in Westeros as "The Red Queen."

Who is Rhaenys Targaryen married to?

She is the wife of Ser Corlys Velaryon, a wealthy and influential lord known as "The Sea Snake." Their union joins two powerful bloodlines, granting them significant political leverage within the realm.

What role does she play in the Dance of the Dragons?

Rhaenys and her husband Corlys pledge their support to Rhaenyra's claim to the Iron Throne against Alicent Hightower's faction. She is sent on Meleys to relieve the besieged Rook's Rest, where she and her dragon are killed by Prince Aemond on Vhagar.