During the preview for episode two of House of the Dragon, we saw  a glimpse of a man who fans are speculating could be Benjicot Blackwood, but who exactly is this new character and was he originally in the books?

Unsurprisingly, Benjicot Blackwood features heavily in the House of the Dragon book series, and is an important player in supporting Rhaenyra’s fight for the Iron Throne. As for why fans think the mystery man could be Benjicot, well the next episode is set in the Riverlands which is where he and his soldiers set up base.

Via HBO

Benjicot is also known as Bloody Ben and became Lord of Raventree Hall and Head of House Blackwood in the books. He took over the head role from his father when he was only 11 years old, after his father was brutally killed in the Battle of the Burning Mill. Throughout the Dance of the Dragons Benjicot sides with Rhaenyra and he continues to fight for her well into 131AC, and during one battle he defeats the Green Knights.

Benjicot’s staunch loyalty to the Blacks earns him a strong reputation and by the time he arrives in King’s Landing he is received with very positive acclaim. Whilst it’s not been confirmed the man in the preview definitely is Benjicot Blackwood, it would make sense for House of the Dragon to introduce his  character soon since he’s so important.