Laenor Velaryon

[FP1997]

Laenor Velaryon in House of the Dragon

• Status: Slain by his former lover, Ser Qarl Correy

• Traits: Immensely loyal, loving and considered by most to be a truly good man

• Famous quote: “Was it terribly painful? I took a lance through the shoulder once.”

• Family: Husband to Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen; brother to Laena Velaryon; father to Jacaerys, Lucerys, and Joffrey Targaryen

Laenor Velaryon, the only son of Lord Corlys Velaryon and Princess Rhaenys Targaryen, was a figure of great promise and tragic fate in the history of Westeros. As the heir to Driftmark and the first husband of his second cousin, Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen, Laenor's life was marked by both privilege and controversy. Known for his dragonriding prowess, Laenor's dragon, Seasmoke, was his pride and passion. However, his personal life and the circumstances surrounding his death remain shrouded in rumor and intrigue.

Life and betrothal

Laenor was born into one of the most powerful and influential families in Westeros. His father, Lord Corlys, was a legendary seafarer known as the Sea Snake, and his mother, Princess Rhaenys, was a Targaryen with a strong claim to the Iron Throne. From an early age, Laenor was groomed to be the next lord of Driftmark.

During the Great Council at Harrenhal, Laenor's parents campaigned vigorously for his claim to the throne. Despite being only seven years old, Laenor's potential claim was considered alongside that of Viserys Targaryen. Ultimately, the council favored Viserys, primarily due to his age and the principle of proximity in the male line. This decision, however, did not diminish Laenor's standing within the noble circles.

With the blessing of King Viserys I Targaryen, Laenor was betrothed to his cousin, Princess Rhaenyra. This union was intended to strengthen the bond between House Targaryen and House Velaryon. Despite whispers about Laenor's lack of interest in women, the marriage proceeded, underscored by political necessity rather than personal affection.

While Laenor preferred the company of handsome young men his own age, Rhaenyra was rumored to have taken a lover, Ser Harwin Strong. Despite these personal inclinations, Rhaenyra gave birth to three sons: Jacaerys, Lucerys, and Joffrey. The legitimacy of these children was frequently questioned, as they bore little resemblance to Laenor.

Despite their personal differences, Laenor fulfilled his duties as a husband and a father. He attended court for significant events, and he was present for the birth of his children. However, the strain of maintaining appearances in a politically charged environment took its toll on the couple. Rhaenyra eventually returned to Dragonstone, taking Ser Harwin with her, while Laenor remained largely at court or traveled.

Mysterious death

On the run up to the civil war, Laenor met a tragic and untimely end. He was slain by his friend, Ser Qarl Correy, during a fair at Spicetown. Witnesses reported that the two had been quarreling before their confrontation turned deadly. Septon Eustace claimed that Qarl killed Laenor out of jealousy, believing Laenor had taken a new favorite. Mushroom, the infamous court jester, suggested a more sinister plot, alleging that Qarl acted on behalf of Prince Daemon Targaryen. Despite these rumors, no concrete evidence supported either theory.

Laenor's death sent shockwaves through Westeros. His father, Lord Corlys, offered a substantial reward for anyone who could capture Ser Qarl, but Qarl was never seen again. Laenor's funeral was a somber event held at High Tide, attended by many, including his family and Prince Aemond Targaryen. During the funeral, Aemond claimed Vhagar, the dragon left riderless after the death of Laenor's sister, Laena, leading to a violent confrontation with Rhaenyra's sons and resulting in Aemond losing an eye.

Less than six months after Laenor's death, Rhaenyra secretly married her uncle, Prince Daemon Targaryen.

Who plays Laenor Velaryon?

• Young Laenor is split by Matthew Carver and Theo Nate; British actors who have had roles in Doctor Who, The Little Mermaid and Time. 
• Adult Laenor is portrayed by John Macmillan; an actor known for his roles in King Lear, The Great and The Nevers.