George R. R. Martin says Phia Saban’s Halaena is a more fascinating character than what he created

George R. R. Martin was recently raining praises on all the cast and crew members of House of the Dragon. The second season of the HBO prequel is currently going on and the author of the source material could not have been happier with the outcome. However, there’s one character that stood out for Martin and he gushed about them all the same.

Also Read: Phia Saban originally auditioned for the role of young Rhaenyra in House of the Dragon

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George R. R. Martin calls Phia Saban’s performance powerful

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Phia Saban plays the daughter of Alicent and Viserys, Halaena, in House of the Dragon. Even though we didn’t see much of her in season 1, House of the Dragon season 2 is bridging the gap and giving her the attention she deserves. Hers is a complex and layered character as she has no interest in the power dynamics of Westeros. She is happy in her own company and takes life as it comes.

One aspect that Martin clearly outlined in his latest Not A Blog is how the showrunners of the HBO prequel gave new life to Halaena’s character. Commenting on Saban’s performance and the character, Martin mentioned,

“Phia Saban gave a wrenching, powerful, heart-breaking performance as Helaena Targaryen, Aegon’s doomed, haunted queen, and mother to his children.

Saban’s performance is especially noteworthy; very little of what she brings to the part was in my source material.”

We can’t wait to see more of Saban’s acting and character in the upcoming episodes.

Also Read: Fans think that Helaena is pregnant with Maelor in House of the Dragon Season 2 Episode 1

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