Despite Fan Protests, Matt Smith’s “Weird androgynous quality” Made the Actor Perfect For ‘House of the Dragon’
The portrayal of Daemon, King Visery’s rebellious brother, in House of the Dragon, stands out as a testament to Matt Smith’s undeniable charisma and acting prowess. Initially, some fans were hesitant to embrace Smith, renowned for his role as The Eleventh Doctor in Doctor Who, in the character of Daemon.
However, Smith’s unwavering commitment to the role and one exceptional quality swiftly erased any doubts, solidifying him as the ideal choice to embody Daemon’s complex persona. From the very first episode, Smith’s performance as Daemon has captivated audiences and garnered widespread acclaim. Smith’s portrayal breathes authenticity and depth into the character, elevating Daemon to become one of the most charismatic figures within House of the Dragon‘s narrative tapestry.
Exploring Fans’ Backlash Over Matt Smith’s House of The Dragon Triumph
Matt Smith‘s transition from the iconic role of the Eleventh Doctor in Doctor Who to embodying Daemon Targaryen in House of the Dragon was met with a myriad of responses. Before House of the Dragon, Smith had earned widespread acclaim for his portrayal of the beloved Doctor in the sci-fi series. However, the reception to his casting in the Game of Thrones prequel was met with a more mixed response.
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Despite his established talent and fan base, the news of Smith taking on the role of Daemon was initially met with skepticism. This sentiment reverberated across various social media platforms. Such a divisive reaction might have deterred many actors, but Smith’s determination and commitment to the role remained steadfast. Matt Smith told (via The Independent),
“I always knew I could add something to it. It won’t be to everyone’s pace, I’m sure. But I certainly feel that I’ve made a connection with Daemon and with the other actors as well. I think we’ve got a wonderful cast.”
Instead of letting the initial negativity sway him, Smith utilized it as fuel to prove his detractors wrong. Smith’s portrayal of Daemon Targaryen showcased a depth and complexity that later resonated with audiences. Smith’s journey from facing adversity in the form of fan backlash to earning acclaim for his performance as Daemon is a testament to his resilience and commitment as an actor.
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Embracing Matt Smith’s Androgynous Charisma as Daemon Targaryen
Matt Smith’s portrayal of Daemon Targaryen in House of the Dragon managed to completely overturn the initial wave of rejection and animosity from fans. Yet, it wasn’t only Smith’s acting finesse that garnered popularity for his character; it was a distinctive quality that he possessed. As per the producer’s insights, Smith’s peculiar androgynous quality played a pivotal role in shaping Daemon Targaryen’s character, making him an impeccable fit for the role.
Moreover, Smith himself felt a profound connection with the persona of the Targaryen Prince. This personal resonance allowed Smith to infuse Daemon with depth and authenticity that resonated with audiences worldwide. Matt Smith told The Hollywood Reporter,
“I was always interested in trying to subvert it a little into something else. I think there’s a sort of strange, sensitive nature to Daemon and quite a genuine loyalty to him and humanistic qualities that you can peel away and see.”
The acclaim Smith received for his performance reverberated globally, contributing significantly to the show’s success. Smith’s portrayal of Daemon Targaryen not only elevated the character’s popularity but also played a substantial role in elevating the show’s reputation on a global scale.
