House of the Dragon expertly blends high fantasy, political intrigue, and familial drama — and the combination of all those things makes it difficult to find similar TV shows. The Game of Thrones spinoff has yet to reach the heights of its predecessor, but it boasts many of the same strengths as the original HBO series. Its balance of personal and political stakes is impressive over the course of its first two seasons, and things promise to get even more tense between the members of House Targaryen in House of the Dragon season 3.
Unfortunately, it could be a while before the next season of House of the Dragon premieres, especially if the show repeats the two-year gap between seasons 1 and 2. This may leave viewers wondering what to watch in the meantime. While there aren’t many shows exactly like House of the Dragon, there are some great series that feature similar elements and themes. From fellow fantasy shows to more realistic family dramas, there’s something to capture every one of HOTD‘s strengths.
10 Succession (2018-2023)
For Those Who Enjoy House Of The Dragon’s Power Struggles & Family Drama
Succession is a Black Comedy and Satire television show created by Jesse Armstrong. It stars Hiam Abbass, Nicholas Braun, Brian Cox, and Kieran Culkin and follows the story of an aging conglomerate owner as he deals with his declining health and the sudden realization that one of his children will soon inherit his position and run his company.
- Cast
- Hiam Abbass , Alan Ruck , Sarah Snook , Kieran Culkin , Natalie Gold , Nicholas Braun , J. Smith-Cameron , Matthew Macfadyen , Peter Friedman , Brian Cox , Arian Moayed , Jeremy Strong , Rob Yang , Dagmara Dominczyk
- Release Date
- June 3, 2018
- Seasons
- 4
- Network
- HBO Max
- Writers
- Jesse Armstrong
- Directors
- Mark Mylod
- Showrunner
- Jesse Armstrong
Succession doesn’t fall into the fantasy genre like House of the Dragon, but it’s similar tonally to the Game of Thrones prequel. Like House of the Dragon, Succession follows a family that’s fighting for power — though the Roys are vying to become CEO of Waystar Royco instead of the king of the Seven Kingdoms. Despite the different titles and vastly different settings, the ruthless power struggles in both series feel very much alike.
Needless to say, those watching House of the Dragon for the intense family drama will appreciate Succession. The characters in Succession are all pretty unlikable, but they feel incredibly realistic — another thing the show has in common with House of the Dragon and Game of Thrones. The series also has many slow but tense moments that will grip viewers despite their lack of action, giving it a similar feel to HBO’s shows. Succession has more humor than House of the Dragon, but it remains a decent follow-up. The only thing missing is the dragons.
9 The Crown (2016-2023)
For Those Who Want More Of House Of The Dragon’s Court Intrigue
The Crown is a Netflix Historical Drama created by Peter Morgan and starring Claire Foy, Olivia Colman, and Imelda Staunton. The series follows the life of ruler Queen Elizabeth II, outlining different points in her life.
- Cast
- Claire Foy , Olivia Colman , Imelda Staunton , Matt Smith , Tobias Menzies , Jonathan Pryce , Vanessa Kirby , Helena Bonham Carter , Lesley Manville , Victoria Hamilton , Marion Bailey , Marcia Warren
- Release Date
- November 4, 2016
- Seasons
- 5
- Writers
- Peter Morgan
Another series set in the real world but boasting similar themes to House of the Dragon is The Crown. The Netflix show features the court politics and family drama that House of the Dragon is known for. However, it tackles these themes by fictionalizing the history of Britain’s royal family. The Crown is set during Queen Elizabeth II’s reign, and it explores real-world events of this time by dramatizing them. The writers take creative liberties with everything that unfolds, and their interpretations of certain narratives mirror those of House of the Dragon.
Related
10 Best TV Shows Like The Crown To Watch After The Final Season
Even though the final season of The Crown has concluded, many other great TV shows have similar themes and stories as the beloved series.
At their cores, both House of the Dragon and The Crown explore what it’s like to rule — and both shows go beyond the quarrels within the royal families, though those take center stage. The Crown and House of the Dragon also dig into the optics of ruling, examining how public sentiment affects a person’s reign. The two series send surprisingly similar messages, even though one is more grounded in reality than the other.
8 The Rings of Power (2022-)
For Those Looking For Another Fleshed Out Fantasy World
Set in the Second Age of Middle-earth, The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power explores the forging of the iconic rings, the rise of the Dark Lord Sauron, and the epic events leading up to the stories in J.R.R. Tolkien’s classic novels. The series chronicles the creation of legendary characters and the historic alliances and rivalries that shape the fate of Middle-earth.
- Cast
- Morfydd Clark , Charlie Vickers , Charles Edwards , Markella Kavenagh , Daniel Weyman , Ismael Cruz Cordova , Megan Richards , Robert Aramayo , Robert Strange , Cynthia Addai-Robinson , Lloyd Owen , Owain Arthur , Tyroe Muhafidin , Alex Tarrant , Benjamin Walker , Trystan Gravelle , Maxim Baldry , Sophia Nomvete , Ema Horvath , Nazanin Boniadi , Geoff Morrell , Peter Mullan , Sara Zwangobani , Lenny Henry , Leon Wadham , Dylan Smith , Thusitha Jayasundera , Maxine Cunliffe , Anthony Crum , Beau Cassidy , Joseph Mawle , Peter Tait , Sam Hazeldine , Bridie Sisson , Jed Brophy , Ciarán Hinds , Amelia Kenworthy , Kevin Eldon
- Character(s)
- Galadriel , Halbrand , Lord Celebrimbor , Nori Brandyfoot , The Stranger , Arondir , Poppy Proudfellow , Elrond , Glûg , Queen Regent Míriel , Captain Elendil , Prince Durin IV , Theo , Valandil , High King Gil-galad , Pharazôn , Isildur , Princess Disa , Eärien , Bronwyn , Waldreg , King Durin III , Marigold Brandyfoot , Sadoc Burrows , Kemen , Largo Brandyfoot , Malva , Vilma , Ontamo , Dilly Brandyfoot , Adar , Tredwill , The Dweller , Vrath , Dark Wizard , Mirdania , Narvi
- Release Date
- September 1, 2022
- Seasons
- 3
- Network
- Amazon Prime Video
- Writers
- Patrick McKay , John D. Payne , J.R.R. Tolkien , Justin Doble , Jason Cahill , Gennifer Hutchison , Stephany Folsom , Nicholas Adams
- Directors
- J.A. Bayona , Sanaa Hamri
- Showrunner
- John D. Payne , Patrick McKay , Louise Hooper , Charlotte Brändström , Wayne Yip
Those looking for shows set in complex fantasy worlds like Westeros should visit Middle-earth through The Rings of Power. The Amazon series is arguably House of the Dragon‘s biggest competitor, with both shows debuting within a month of one another back in 2022. The Rings of Power takes place in a much different world than House of the Dragon, as J.R.R. Tolkien’s stories tend to be more hopeful than George R.R. Martin’s. However, with The Rings of Power chronicling Sauron’s first rise to power, things get dark enough to win GOT and HOTD fans over.
The Rings of Power
offers complex characters and builds out Tolkien’s world, making it a must-watch for fantasy lovers — and a great follow-up to
House of the Dragon.
Sauron’s scheming leads to more political intrigue than there is in The Lord of the Rings, and his quest for power could appeal to those interested in the fight for the Iron Throne — even if most of his opponents are more well-meaning than House of the Dragon’s major players. Even so, The Rings of Power offers complex characters and builds out Tolkien’s world, making it a must-watch for fantasy lovers — and a great follow-up to House of the Dragon.
7 The Wheel Of Time (2021-)
For Those Who Want Complex Fantasy Worlds With More Magic & Morals
Brandon Sanderson and Robert Jordan’s expansive fantasy series is brought to life in The Wheel of Time, a fantasy tv series created for Amazon Prime Video. The series follows a woman named Moiraine, a member of the all-female Aes Sedai group who can utilize a great power. Following an attack on a local village, Moiraine heads there to find a villager that may be the reincarnation of an all-powerful dragon that will either save or destroy the world.
- Release Date
- November 19, 2021
- Seasons
- 2
- Franchise(s)
- The Wheel of Time
- Writers
- Rafe Judkins , Robert Jordan , Michael Clarkson , Paul Clarkson , Celine Song
- Directors
- Sanaa Hamri , Ciaran Donnelly , Thomas Napper
- Showrunner
- Rafe Judkins
If The Rings of Power isn’t up your alley, another fantasy series to check out before House of the Dragon season 3 is Amazon’s Wheel of Time. Based on Robert Jordan’s fantasy series, The Wheel of Time introduces viewers to a world that’s just as vast and politically complex as Westeros — though its magic is more involved and intriguing. The Wheel of Time features a stellar ensemble cast, with multiple storylines converging to fuel the main narrative. This feels in line with the structure of GOT and HOTD, even if the good vs. evil plot isn’t present in the HBO shows.
Additionally, The Wheel of Time season 3 is likely to arrive before either House of the Dragon or The Rings of Power season 3 debut. As The Wheel of Time‘s sophomore season dropped in 2023, it has a head start when it comes to returning. This will give viewers plenty of great fantasy content to tide them over until the Targaryen civil war rages on (something that likely won’t happen until at least 2026).
6 My Lady Jane (2024)
For Those Looking For Powerful Women & An Exploration Of Patriarchy
My Lady Jane is a Prime Video original series created by Gemma Burgess. The story is a “what if” style story of English royal history where King Henry VIII’s son Edward, Lady Jane Grey, and her husband Guildford all survive their real-life deaths. In the retelling of history, Jane Grey takes center stage, becoming queen and immediately finding herself facing nefarious villains.
- Cast
- Emily Bader , Edward Bluemel , Jordan Peters , Anna Chancellor , Dominic Cooper , Jim Broadbent , Will Keen , Rob Brydon , Kate O’Flynn , Máiréad Tyers , Robyn Betteridge
- Release Date
- June 27, 2024
- Seasons
- 1
- Writers
- Jodi Meadows , Brodi Ashton , Cynthia Hand
- Directors
- Jamie Babbit , Stefan Schwartz
- Showrunner
- Gemma Burgess , Meredith Glynn
- Creator(s)
- Gemma Burgess
My Lady Jane is more optimistic and romantic than House of the Dragon, but Amazon’s historical fantasy series has a few noteworthy things in common with the HBO show. For one, there’s the heavy emphasis on court politics, with My Lady Jane also featuring a confrontation for a throne. That conflict also unfolds around two powerful queens, something fans of House of the Dragon‘s compelling female leads will appreciate. And My Lady Jane challenges the patriarchal values associated with power, albeit in a much more hopeful way than House of the Dragon.
If all the similarities between the series don’t convince
House of the Dragon
fans to pick up
My Lady Jane,
Martin’s positive comments should.
With all that in mind, My Lady Jane is the perfect series to binge in between seasons of HOTD. Sadly, Amazon didn’t renew My Lady Jane for season 2, so there’s not much content to tide viewers over until season 3. However, George R.R. Martin himself praised the show, writing on his Not a Blog that it “deserved more.” If all the similarities between the series don’t convince House of the Dragon fans to pick up My Lady Jane, Martin’s positive comments should.
5 Shōgun (2024-)
For Those Looking For A Balance Of Tense, Quiet Moments & Action
Shogun is an FX original mini-series set in 17th Century Japan. Shogun follows John Blackthorne, who becomes a samurai warrior but is unknowingly a pawn in Yoshii Toranaga’s plan to become Shogun. The series stars Cosmo Jarvis as John Blackthorne and Hiroyuki Sanada as Yoshii Toranaga, along with Anna Sawai, Tadanobu Asano, and Yûki Kedôin.
- Cast
- Cosmo Jarvis , Hiroyuki Sanada , Anna Sawai , Tadanobu Asano , Yûki Kedôin , Takehiro Hira , Tommy Bastow
- Release Date
- February 27, 2024
- Seasons
- 1
- Streaming Service(s)
- Hulu
- Writers
- Maegan Houang , Rachel Kondo , Justin Marks , Emily Yoshida
- Directors
- Frederick E.O. Toye , Jonathan van Tulleken
- Creator(s)
- Rachel Kondo , Justin Marks
Another prestigious TV show that will appeal to fans of the Game of Thrones franchise is FX’s Shōgun. While the historical drama has no fantasy elements to speak of, its themes, characters, and storytelling style mirror those of Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon. Set in feudal Japan, Shōgun chronicles Yoshii Toranaga’s efforts to become shogun — a journey that’s wrought with political scheming, bloodshed, and betrayal.
Shōgun will appeal to House of the Dragon fans for those reasons, but its epic storytelling style also feels reminiscent of Game of Thrones’ prequel and its predecessor. Shōgun is full of quiet moments that build tension, which eventually culminate in grander action sequences and revelations. Those who enjoy both the slow-paced simmer of House of the Dragon‘s political storylines and the fast-paced action moments would do well to check out the FX series.
4 The Tudors (2007-2010)
For Those Looking For A Mature Drama With A Focus On Family & Politics
The Tudors is a historical drama television series that chronicles the reign of King Henry VIII of England, played by Jonathan Rhys Meyers. The show explores his tumultuous relationships, including his marriages to Catherine of Aragon and Anne Boleyn, while delving into the intrigue, politics, and drama of the Tudor court.
- Cast
- Jonathan Rhys Meyers , Henry Cavill , Sarah Bolger , Max Brown , David O’Hara
- Release Date
- April 1, 2007
- Seasons
- 4
- Creator(s)
- Michael Hirst
Perhaps it’s the extensive fictional history surrounding the Targaryen dynasty, but House of the Dragon has a lot in common with many historical dramas. This includes the 2000s series The Tudors, which is set in England during King Henry VIII’s reign. The show explores Henry’s interpersonal relationships, offering plenty of familial drama for those interested in that element of House of the Dragon. It also digs into the king’s relations with the church and his court, delivering on the political components of HBO’s fantasy series.
Related
What The Tudors’ Cast Has Done Since The Show Ended
Some of the cast of Showtime’s hit historical drama The Tudors have gone on to play characters in the DCEU, Game of Thrones, Downton Abbey, and more.
The Tudors is mature like House of the Dragon, as it doesn’t shy away from difficult themes, violence, nudity, or sexual moments. It also boasts a standout cast, including well-known fantasy stars like The Witcher alum Henry Cavill and Game of Thrones actor Natalie Dormer. Needless to say, it’s a fitting way to follow House of the Dragon season 2. The series is also completed, so viewers can power right on through it.
3 The Winter King (2023)
For Those Looking For Dark & Gritty Themes With Minimal Fantasy
Based on Bernard Cornwell’s book series, The Winter King is a historical fiction series that covers the first novel’s events. The series retreads the tale of King Arthur with a new imagining; Arthur has been exiled, with the Saxons now in control of Camelot’s throne, with Merlin nowhere to be found.
- Cast
- Iain De Caestecker , Daniel Ings , Jordan Alexandra , Stuart Campbell , Ken Nwosu , Eddie Marsan , Nathaniel Martello-White
- Release Date
- August 20, 2023
- Seasons
- 1
- Streaming Service(s)
- MGM+
- Writers
- Kate Brooke , Bernard Cornwell , Ed Whitmore
- Showrunner
- Kate Brooke , Ed Whitmore , Bernard Cornwell
Another short-lived fantasy series, The Winter King won’t be getting a season 2 — but House of the Dragon fans who can get past that disappointing reality should keep it on their radars. A historical fantasy series reimagining Arthurian legend, The Winter King is heavy on politics and drama while keeping its extraordinary elements in the background. It has this in common with shows like Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon, so viewers looking for a similar balance will find it here.
The Winter King also offers a more mature fantasy story, leaning into dark and gritty storytelling, violent action sequences, and morally dubious characters — all things HBO’s Game of Thrones franchise is known for. Unfortunately, the show won’t be able to deliver on all these things without more seasons. However, it’s still an entertaining watch, and it will keep viewers engaged until House of the Dragon season 3 comes out.
2 The Last Kingdom (2015-2022)
For Those Who Want Engaging Action
Based on the Saxon Stories novel series by Bernard Cornwell, The Last Kingdom tells the story of a man who seeks to reclaim his birthright. Set in 872, the kingdoms that makeup England have come under Dane rule, with Wessex the last one standing under King Alfred. The protagonist, Uhtred, is born of noble descent but is captured by the Danes and raised to be one. As he ages, he must choose between his ancestral home or the family that caught but raised him. Uhted will wrestle with his loyalties as he battles between his Saxon and Dane lineages.
- Cast
- Alexander Dreymon , Emily Cox , Ian Hart , Eliza Butterworth , Eva Birthistle , Mark Rowley , Cavan Clerkin , Tobias Santelmann , David Dawson
- Release Date
- October 5, 2015
- Seasons
- 5
- Writers
- Martha Hiller , Stephen Butchard
- Directors
- Alexander Dreymon
- Showrunner
- Stephen Butchard
While shows like My Lady Jane and The Winter King make for fast watches before House of the Dragon season 3, The Last Kingdom gives viewers a lengthy series to dig into. All five seasons of The Last Kingdom are available to stream on Netflix, as is the 2023 movie, Seven Kings Must Die. The Last Kingdom may not have dragons or fantasy elements like House of the Dragon, but it compensates for that with its engaging action sequences. Those who enjoy that aspect of HOTD and GOT will have fun watching this bloody series.
Related
The Last Kingdom: Every Character Based On Real Life Figures
Many fans of the medieval series wonder, “Is The Last Kingdom a true story?”, and indeed, many characters are based on real historical figures.
Of course, The Last Kingdom isn’t all action and gore. Like many other great House of the Dragon follow-ups, it also benefits from its complex relationships and the characters’ constant power moves. There’s plenty to love about the Netflix series, and it’s a testament to its quality that it lasted for five seasons on the platform. It’s well worth picking up for viewers waiting for House of the Dragon‘s return.
1 Game Of Thrones (2011-2019)
For Those Looking For More Direct Connections To House Of The Dragon
Based on George R.R. Martin’s novels, this fantasy series follows the power struggles among noble families as they vie for control of the Iron Throne in the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros. The series is known for its complex characters, political intrigue, and unexpected plot twists.
- Cast
- Kit Harington , Isaac Hempstead Wright , Iain Glen , Peter Dinklage , Nikolaj Coster-Waldau , Emilia Clarke , Maisie Williams , Sophie Turner , John Bradley , Lena Headey , Liam Cunningham , Aidan Gillen , Alfie Allen , Conleth Hill , Rory McCann , Jerome Flynn , Jacob Anderson , Kristofer Hivju , Gwendoline Christie , Nathalie Emmanuel , Carice Van Houten , Natalie Dormer , Stephen Dillane , Charles Dance , Charlotte Hope , Michelle Fairley , Jack Gleeson , Richard Madden , Hannah Murray , Sibel Kekilli , Julian Glover , Brenock O’Connor , Rose Leslie , Michael McElhatton
- Release Date
- April 17, 2011
- Seasons
- 8
- Creator(s)
- David Benioff , D.B. Weiss
- Directors
- David Nutter , Alan Taylor , D.B. Weiss , David Benioff
- Showrunner
- David Benioff , D.B. Weiss
Game of Thrones may be an obvious recommendation for House of the Dragon fans, but it really is the closest thing viewers will find to the fantasy series — and it makes for a great rewatch. Game of Thrones boasts all the political drama, world-building, and well-crafted characters of HOTD, but its conflict takes place on a grander scale. Daenerys Targaryen’s story also gives more meaning to House of the Dragon‘s central plot, and judging by season 2, it seems like the prequel is drawing connections to the White Walkers and Song of Ice and Fire prophecy as well.
It’s common to pick up on new things when rewatching
Game of Thrones,
and some of the details viewers notice might connect to
House of the Dragon.
With that in mind, rewatching Game of Thrones before House of the Dragon season 3 may not be a bad idea. While Game of Thrones spoils Rhaenyra Targaryen’s fate in the prequel series, it also adds context to her story. It’s common to pick up on new things when rewatching Game of Thrones, and some of the details viewers notice might connect to House of the Dragon.