The author was way more impressed with Blood and Cheese than other viewers.

Although the first season of House of the Dragon gave many fans of George R.R. Martin’s original fantasy universe back the hope they lost after the finale of Game of Thrones, the second season has not been universally well-received. While some viewers still enjoy the story, others feel that the show has gone down the same path as its predecessor.

It’s safe to say that the vast majority of viewers who have read the novel on which the Targaryen prequel is based, Fire & Blood, do not like the changes the show has made. Many would think that the author himself might feel the same way, but prepare to be surprised as Martin has come forward to defend the show.

What George R. R. Martin Thinks About House of the Dragon?

One of the most criticized moments in season 2 was Blood and Cheese: the gruesome murder of the young Prince Jaehaerys Targaryen. Hyped in the promotion, the scene failed to live up to viewers’ expectations, leaving many unimpressed. George R.R. Martin, however, found it absolutely fascinating.

The author praised the controversial episode not only for the actors’ brilliant portrayal of their characters and the way House of the Dragon handled one of the most sensitive deaths in the entire series, but also for the creative element the writers added that had nothing to do with an original novel.

“I am… ahem… not usually a fan of screenwriters adding characters to the source material when adapting a story. Especially not when the source material is mine. But that dog was brilliant. I was prepared to hate Cheese, but I hated him even more when he kicked that dog. And later, when the dog sat at his feet, gazing up… that damn near broke my heart,” he said.

While you may still have your own thoughts on the best way to show Blood and Cheese, it’s hard to argue with a writer, but the addition of a dog made many of us tense up in front of our screens. After all, not many people, let alone other creatures, get their happy endings in Westeros, so the stakes were high for the dog.

If you are enjoying House of the Dragon season 2 so far, despite all the criticism, be sure to tune in to HBO or Max every Sunday to never miss another episode.