Milly Alcock, who rose to fame as young Rhaenyra Targaryen in HBO’s House of the Dragon, reveals the harsh criticism she faced early on the show — including being told she needed an acting coach after just two days on set. Yet, despite the doubts, Alcock has become a fan favorite and is now preparing for her next big role in Netflix’s Sirens.
Early doubts on a majestic set
Milly Alcock’s breakthrough role came with HBO’s House of the Dragon, the Game of Thrones prequel chronicling the turbulent reign of the Targaryen dynasty. But fame and success didn’t come without its hurdles. On the May 19 episode of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, the 25-year-old actress shared an unexpected and humbling moment early in her journey portraying young Rhaenyra Targaryen.
“On my second day on House of the Dragon, someone very high up pulled me aside and said, ‘We’re gonna get you an acting coach,’” Alcock recalled. The host’s shocked reaction underscored the gravity of the moment, and Alcock didn’t shy away from admitting how it hit her. “It just confirmed everything that I’ve kind of known to be true — that I’m not very good at my job,” she admitted, a raw and vulnerable moment that earned sympathy from the audience.
This admission revealed the insecurities many actors face behind the scenes, even when their work resonates powerfully with audiences. Alcock confessed she felt overwhelmed and doubted herself, thinking, “I can’t do this. This is terrible. This is a big mistake.”
Jimmy Fallon defends a rising star
Despite the candid self-doubt Alcock expressed, host Jimmy Fallon made it clear that he and the House of the Dragon audience didn’t share the same sentiment. He stood up in defense of the actress, reminding viewers that she had been a fan favorite since the very first episode.
“You are unbelievable,” Fallon praised. He even addressed the unnamed critic directly: “Look at her! You’re totally wrong, buddy.” Fallon’s support resonated with many fans who have come to admire Alcock’s nuanced portrayal of Rhaenyra, a character layered with complexity and emotion. Alcock’s humble recount of being told she needed an acting coach highlighted the tough environment on major productions and the pressure young actors often face, especially stepping into a beloved franchise with a passionate fan base.
The journey of young Rhaenyra Targaryen
Alcock’s role as young Rhaenyra was pivotal in introducing audiences to the early days of the Targaryen dynasty, set nearly 200 years before the events of Game of Thrones. The character is a key figure in the power struggles, dynastic intrigues, and dragon-filled battles that have made House of the Dragon a critical and commercial success.
The series was co-created by Ryan Condal and George R.R. Martin, the latter known worldwide for his epic fantasy novels that inspired Game of Thrones. Season 1 laid the foundation by exploring Rhaenyra’s early life and the political tensions surrounding her claim to the Iron Throne. Season 2 ramped up the action, delivering breathtaking dragon battles and deeper conflicts.
In an “Inside the Episode” special following the season 2 finale, Condal teased that season 3 would focus on “total war,” promising even higher stakes and more intense drama. As the show prepares for its next chapter, Alcock’s performance continues to be celebrated as a critical element in bringing the complex Targaryen saga to life.
From House of the Dragon to Sirens: What’s next for Milly Alcock?
As House of the Dragon enjoys its continued success — with season 2 premiering in June 2024 and season 3 already confirmed — Milly Alcock is gearing up for another major project. On May 22, she will star in the Netflix drama Sirens, acting alongside a stellar cast including Julianne Moore, Meghann Fahy, Kevin Bacon, Glenn Howerton, Bill Camp, and Felix Solis.
This new role marks a different chapter in Alcock’s career, one that will showcase her range and ability to take on complex, dramatic characters beyond the fantasy genre. Fans eagerly await seeing her talent unfold in this new series, following the intense and beloved character she portrayed on HBO.
Overcoming adversity in Hollywood
Milly Alcock’s story is a reminder of the challenges actors face, especially young talents navigating high-pressure environments. Being told early on that she wasn’t good enough might have crushed her spirit, but instead, it fueled her determination to succeed.
Her vulnerability in sharing this experience publicly also sheds light on the need for support and encouragement in creative industries, where self-doubt can easily take hold. Through resilience and hard work, Alcock has won the hearts of viewers worldwide and continues to build a promising career.
Milly Alcock’s journey from a doubtful newcomer to a beloved star of House of the Dragon is a testament to perseverance and passion. Despite hearing harsh criticism early on, she proved that talent combined with dedication can overcome even the toughest obstacles. With new roles on the horizon and fans rallying behind her, Alcock’s star is only rising higher — and this time, no acting coach is needed.
