Excitement is brewing among Game of Thrones fans as a potential release date for the much-anticipated third season of House of the Dragon has seemingly been revealed—albeit by accident. Matt Smith, who portrays the enigmatic Daemon Targaryen, may have let slip that the new season could arrive in August 2026 during a recent appearance on the British show This Morning.
The buzz surrounding the upcoming season has intensified in recent weeks, especially with the imminent launch of a new spin-off titled “A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms,” set to premiere on January 18, 2026. This new addition has fans eagerly discussing the possibilities for future adventures in Westeros, particularly for those longing for more Targaryen intrigue.
During his television appearance, Smith casually mentioned, “I think it comes out next August,” leaving fans buzzing with anticipation. His comment aligns with previous indications from HBO executives, including Casey Bloys, who suggested that the next season would air shortly after the conclusion of the Emmy Awards eligibility period, which wraps up at the end of May. This timeline hints at a potential June release; however, Smith’s insight brings August into play as a strong candidate as well.
While fans relish the thought of a summer premiere, caution is advised. Smith’s use of “I think” suggests that while there’s optimism, the information has not been officially confirmed by HBO. Thus, fans are encouraged to temper their expectations and continue honing their patience until official announcements are made.
With 2026 shaping up to be a thrilling year for followers of the franchise, the upcoming release of “A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms” and the highly-anticipated return of House of the Dragon promise to keep viewers entertained. To ensure a successful binge-watching experience, fans should prepare themselves and stay informed, as HBO’s schedule is likely to be packed with dragons and drama.
In the meantime, fans are advised to keep their excitement in check and enjoy the journey as updates will continue to roll in. As always, the world of Game of Thrones remains filled with surprises, and there’s no denying the anticipation that surrounds the upcoming releases. So, gear up for what’s to come and perhaps practice your “Dracarys!”—you might just need it when the dragons return to the screen.