‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ Star Sam Spruell Breaks Down Maekar’s Grief and Egg’s Lie After That Season Finale

Hollywood Reporter

by Brian Davids

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Sam Spruell, known for his role in *Fargo* and now playing Prince Maekar Targaryen in the Game of Thrones prequel series *A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms*, offers insight into his character’s emotional struggles and motivations. In the season one finale, Maekar grapples with guilt and self-delusion after a fatal incident involving Ser Duncan “Dunk” the Tall during a jousting tournament at Ashford Meadow. Spruell highlights how Maekar’s actions reveal his vulnerability as both a ruler and a father, emphasizing his tendency to justify his mistakes by deflecting blame onto divine will—a common trait among those in power. The episode explores Maekar’s strained relationships with his sons: Daeron, Aerion, and Aegon (Egg). His eldest sons’ behavioral issues—ranging from drunkenness to violence—exacerbate Maekar’s sense of failure as a parent. Tensions rise when Aerion challenges Dunk to a trial by combat after accusing him of kidnapping Egg. Baelor Targaryen, Maekar’s older brother and heir to the Iron Throne, intervenes on Dunk’s behalf, recognizing the injustice in his family’s actions. However, Maekar refuses to accept responsibility, even as Baelor’s unexpected death from a head wound—inflicted

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Originally published on Hollywood Reporter on 2/23/2026