Baela Targaryen

[FP1997]

Baela Targaryen (left) in House of the Dragon

• Status: Lady Baela Targaryen  

• Traits: Wild and fearless, tomboy like figure, quick to anger.   

• Famous Quote:  "I am a dragonrider, like my mother, my father, and you. The Greens reach to usurp our queen's throne and they must be answered with fire and blood." 

• Family: Daughter of Prince Daemon Targaryen and Lady Laena Velaryon; sister to twin Rhaena Targaryen and half-brothers Aegon and Viserys.  

Baela’s lineage is a blend of the two most powerful houses in Westerous: the Targaryens and the Velaryons. As the eldest daughter of Prince Daemon Targaryen and Lady Leana Velaryon, this heritage not only gives her a strong claim to the throne, but also presents her with a profound sense of identity and duty. Raised at Driftmark with her twin sister, Rhaena Targayren sat in the ancestral seat of House Velaryon, and later at Dragonstone. 

Relationships  

From a young age, Baela was introduced to the world of dragons. Her bond with her own dragon,  Moondancer, portrays the fearless rider she will become. Moondancer, a slender and swift dragon, mirrors Baela’s own qualities. This bond not only establishes her status as true Targaryen, but also foreshadows her future role in the Dance of the Dragons.  

Both Baela and Rhaena share the grief of their mother, Laena, after she dies a dragonriders death. They both attend their mother’s funeral at High Tide, where they are welcomed by their grandparents, Lord Corlys Velaryon and Princess Rhaenys.  

Dance of the Dragons  

With the advocation of King Viserys, Baela is betrothed to Prince Jacaerys Targaryen, her stepmother, Rhaenyra Targaryen’s eldest son. The alliance was agreed to strengthen the Velaryon and Targaryen bond positioning Baela closer to the politics and family drama.  

Baela is marked by a blend of resilience and empathy. The loss of her mother, Laena Velaryon, evidently impacts her, yet she channels her grief into strength. A trait in which she shares with her father, Daemon Targaryen. Daemons influence is evident, with a want and willingness to challenge the norms displayed to her. 

Who plays Baela Targaryen?  

• Young Baela is played by Shani Smethurst; with her debuting role being in the House of Dragon. Shani has also featured in both Twelfth Night and Casualty.  

• Adult Baela is portrayed by Bethany Antonia; a British actress known for her Netflix appearances in both Stay Close and Get Even. Bethany’s background in young theatre informed her role as Baela.