As the events of Game of Thrones and the A Song of Ice and Fire book series unfold, House Strong fades into obscurity, surviving only through potential distant descendants within the Golden Company. However, in the inaugural season of House of the Dragon, members of House Strong take center stage, influencing the events leading to the Dance of the Dragons.
At the series' onset, House Strong's rule over the cursed Harrenhal fortress for over four decades sets the stage. Following Otto Hightower's removal as Hand of the King, Lord Lyonel Strong, the former Master of Laws, ascends to the position, elevating his family's status. Additionally, the affair between Ser Harwin Strong and Princess Rhaenyra results in three boys who bear the Velaryon name but are presumed to be of Strong lineage.
Lord Lyonel Strong
Reigning over Harrenhal & Serving as Hand of the King
- Portrayed by Gavin Spokes
- Featured in 6 episodes
Lord Lyonel Strong's unwavering loyalty and selflessness in his role on the Small Council set him apart. Rising to the position of Hand of the King, he continued his faithful service, earning the dying King Viserys' commendation on his deathbed.
Lord Lyonel exhibited capability, especially during the reign of a frail king, embodying high moral standards akin to the future Ned Stark, albeit with a hint of shrewdness. His sons, Harwin and Larys, each played distinct roles as the civil war loomed, albeit in contrasting manners.
Ser Harwin Strong, Known as Breakbones
Eldest Son & Heir of Lord Lyonel Strong, and Lord Commander of the City Watch
- Portrayed by Ryan Corr
- Appeared in 4 episodes
While Ser Harwin Strong's presence in House of the Dragon may seem understated, the repercussions of his three illegitimate sons reverberate significantly. Renowned as Breakbones for his unmatched strength, he exemplified fierce loyalty and protection towards his loved ones and the vulnerable.
Harwin, Lord Lyonel's heir, assumed the mantle of Lord Commander of the Goldcloaks in King's Landing. He also became the enduring paramour of Rhaenyra Targaryen, with the three sons she bore adopting the Velaryon surname of their legal father, yet suspicions about their true lineage lingered. Jacaerys, the eldest, stands as Rhaenyra's heir and a pivotal figure in the impending conflict.
Lord Larys Strong, Known as The Clubfoot
Second Son of Lyonel Strong & Successor to Harrenhal
- Portrayed by Matthew Needham
- Featured in 7 episodes
Despite being the younger son, Larys Strong proves to be the most intriguing member of House Strong. Termed The Clubfoot due to a physical deformity, Larys grasps the power of observation swiftly and exhibits a penchant for intrigue. However, his disregard for life, even of kin, underscores his perilous nature, surprising even his supposed ally, Queen Alicent.
In stark contrast to his honorable father, Larys pursues self-interest relentlessly, employing shadowy tactics to amass influence. Fans draw parallels between Larys Strong and Game of Thrones characters like Littlefinger and Ramsay Snow due to his manipulative and ruthless demeanor.