Matthew Needham says Larys Strong’s pursuit of influence comes down to “power and control.” In a June 12, 2024 interview with Cheryl Eddy for Gizmodo, the House of the Dragon actor described a character who wants Queen Alicent working for him—and whose careful plans are increasingly disrupted by the rush toward war in season two.
What motivates Larys Strong?
Needham describes power and control as the center of Larys’s behavior, including his dealings with Alicent. In the interview, he characterizes Larys as wanting the queen to work for him. The point is not simply that Larys seeks a higher position: his influence depends on shaping what other people do while he operates from the shadows.
By season two, the interview describes Larys as holding a more elevated place in Aegon II’s regime and as becoming more adept at influencing events. Needham’s account frames that position as a means of extending control, rather than as an end in itself.
How does season two challenge his usual strategy?
Larys is associated with patience and long-game planning, but Needham says the season’s fast movement toward war makes that approach harder to sustain. “He’s caught off guard a lot this season, and his plans don’t work out,” he said. When events do not follow his design, Larys has to pivot, adapt, and improvise.
#1 Best Overall
- Includes 2in Mini Figure, 4.5in Character Bust, Coin, House Family Tree, Collector Card with Certificate of Authenticity and bookmark with House Crest
- Based on HBO series Game of Thrones House of the Dragon
- Immerse yourself in the aura of nobility as you break the seal and reveal the treasures within. Sealed Box Packaging adds an unparalleled touch of grandeur to every moment.
- Collect all House of the Dragon and Game of Thrones collector boxes
That contrast gives Needham’s description of the season its central tension: Larys still wants to get ahead by anticipating other people, but a rapidly escalating crisis leaves less time to prepare. According to Needham, he has to work harder when the long game breaks down.
What does Needham emphasize about Larys’s boundaries?
Needham describes Larys as having no boundaries at this point in the story and calls him “a pretty wild guy!” The remark underscores the gap between Larys’s controlled manner and the lengths he may be willing to go to pursue influence. It is Needham’s characterization of the role, not a general summary of every action in the season.
Rank #2
- IDEAL COLLECTIBLE SIZE - At approximately 3.75 inches (9.5 cm) tall, this vinyl mini figurine complements other collectable merchandise and fits perfectly in your display case or on your desk.
- PREMIUM VINYL MATERIAL - Made from high-quality, durable vinyl, this collectible is built to last and withstand daily wear, ensuring long-lasting enjoyment for fans and collectors alike.
- PERFECT GIFT FOR HOUSE OF THE DRAGON FANS - Ideal for holidays, birthdays, or special occasions and as a present this figurine is a must-have addition to any House of the Dragon merchandise collection
- EXPAND YOUR COLLECTION - Add this unique Rhaenyra Targaryen vinyl display piece to your growing assortment of Funko Pop! figures, and seek out other rare and exclusive collectible items for a complete set
- LEADING POP CULTURE BRAND - Trust in the expertise of Funko, the premier creator of pop culture merchandise that includes vinyl figures, action toys, plush, apparel, board games, and more.
How does Needham use physicality to play Larys?
Larys walks with a cane because of a misshapen foot, and the interview notes that he has learned to use the way others underestimate him to his advantage. Needham says he deliberately shapes his own physical presence around that impression: “I just try to make myself as small as possible.” He also aims to stay below the other person’s eyeline.
Needham connected that choice to reading about clinical psychologists. As he explained it, he understood a lower eyeline could make someone feel less threatened and more willing to open up. That is his account of how he researched and built the performance, not clinical advice or a universal psychological rule.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Rank #3
- Includes 2in Mini Figure, 4.5in Character Bust, Coin, House Family Tree, Collector Card with Certificate of Authenticity and bookmark with House Crest
- Based on the hit HBO series House of the Dragon
- Immerse yourself in the aura of nobility as you break the seal and reveal the treasures within. Sealed Box Packaging adds an unparalleled touch of grandeur to every moment.
- Collect all House of the Dragon and Game of Thrones collector boxes
When did season two return?
Eddy’s June 12, 2024 Gizmodo interview said season two was set to return to HBO and Max on June 16, 2024. That is a historical release announcement; it does not establish where the series can be streamed today or whether it is available in a particular country.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Rule holiday festivities with this Daemon Targaryen Hallmark Keepsake Christmas ornament. Features the "House of the Dragon" character guarding a dragon egg with his iconic sword, Dark Sister.
- Approx. Size in Inches: 2.2 x 4.37 x 4.71
- Great Christmas gift idea for fans of the HBO original series "House of the Dragon."
- Additional Details: Artist-crafted by Jake Angell. Plastic Christmas ornament features hanger attachment.
- Includes: One Keepsake Ornament in 2024 gift box for easy gift giving, preservation and storage.
Rank #4
- Includes 2in Mini Figure, 4.5in Character Bust, Coin, House Family Tree, Collector Card with Certificate of Authenticity and bookmark with House Crest
- Based on HBO series Game of Thrones House of the Dragon
- Immerse yourself in the aura of nobility as you break the seal and reveal the treasures within. Sealed Box Packaging adds an unparalleled touch of grandeur to every moment.
- Collect all House of the Dragon and Game of Thrones collector boxes
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
