A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: New Poster and Image Released

A new series from the world of "Game of Thrones" awaits us in early 2026! In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, showrunner Ira Parker talked about why "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms" is so different from "Game of Thrones" and "House of the Dragon". We also get a fresh poster and a brand new image of the spin-off.

It shows actor Peter Claffey in his leading role as Dunk. He can be seen on a horse on a path somewhere in the Seven Kingdoms. Together with his squire Egg, played by Dexter Sol Ansell, he is traveling through Westeros a good century before the events of "Game of Thrones".

No intro

One change compared to the original series is the lack of a classic intro. Instead, the episodes of "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms" start with a simple fade-in of the series title. This is quite surprising: after all, the striking intro to "Game of Thrones" has burned itself deep into the memory of all fans. The iconic design combined with Ramin Djawadi's orchestral music make the intro one of the most popular opening credits in the history of television.

A different tone and focus

The decision against a classic intro goes hand in hand with the general tone of the spin-off. The aim this time is not to tell epic stories, but rather to concentrate on the two main characters. "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms" shows the world of ordinary people in Westeros. Showrunner Parker has promised Martin that he does not want to take the perspective of the nobility for his story. Magic and fantastic creatures such as dragons are also not to play a role. He describes the tone of his series as follows:

"This could basically be 14th century Britain. This is hard nose, grind it out, gritty, medieval knights, cold with a really light, hopeful touch. It's a wonderful place to be. We are ground up in this series, we are starting right at the bottom. We're not with the lords and ladies, the kings and queens."

Trailer and start date

For "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms", a story by George R.R. Martin is once again being adapted as a series. The first season adapts the short story "The Hedge Knight" and consists of a total of six episodes. The original start date was scheduled for 2025. However, the series will now be released in January 2026, so the first trailer should not be far away. Fittingly, a panel on the series is scheduled for October 9 at New York Comic Con. A poster for the series has already been released in the run-up to the event. It is quite possible that the trailer will be presented at the panel.

"House of the Dragon" fans, on the other hand, will have to wait a little longer. Filming for the third season is currently underway, but is due to come to an end soon. The season will be released in early summer 2026, possibly in June 2026.

The novellas by George R.R. Martin

George R.R. Martin, the creator of the fantasy epic "A Song of Ice and Fire", has written a collection of stories that delve into the past of Westeros with "A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms". The novella collection contains three stories: "The Hedge Knight", "The Sworn Sword" and "The Mystery Knight". It not only offers a fascinating expansion of the familiar universe, but also a more intimate, character-oriented narrative style. As such, the original also differs significantly from the main series.

Plot

At the center of the three stories is Ser Duncan, called "Dunk". The simple knight tries to hold his own in the harsh and often cynical world of Westeros. At his side is Egg – a shaven-headed boy with a secret. The novellas follow Dunk and Egg on their travels through the realm, at tournaments and in minor conflicts. Despite their seemingly modest plots, the stories repeatedly address larger themes – justice, loyalty, class distinctions and honor in a cruel world.

Tone and style

Martin tells his stories in the style of classic tales of chivalry, but with a realistic look at the ideals of knighthood. Ser Duncan is not a brilliant strategist or a born fighter – rather, he is characterized by his sincerity, his courage and his humanity. The stories are told from his perspective and allow a very personal approach to the world of Westeros. At the same time, readers also learn about the continent's past.

The short stories are a worthwhile addition for anyone who wants to delve deeper into the world of Westeros. George R.R. Martin succeeds here in telling a classic-looking yet profound tale of chivalry. With the upcoming series adaptation from HBO, interest in Dunk and Egg is likely to increase further – and quite rightly so.