Exciting New Game of Thrones Projects Set for 2026
Upcoming Game of Thrones Productions
In 2026, fans of the iconic series Game of Thrones can look forward to three exciting projects. The inaugural season of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms concluded in February, while the third season of House of the Dragon is set to premiere in June 2026. Additionally, those visiting the UK or residing in England during the summer will have the chance to experience a new play titled Game of Thrones: The Mad King, which will debut at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon on July 20, 2026, and run until September 5, 2026. Here’s what you need to know about this prequel play and ticket purchasing details.
The Mad King to Premiere at Royal Shakespeare Theatre
The Mad King to Premiere at Royal Shakespeare Theatre in July 2026
The Royal Shakespeare Theatre teased on social media that Harrenhal is warming up as spring approaches. The play will be performed on a unique cross-shaped stage, allowing the audience to be immersed in the action. The narrative will revisit the houses of Targaryen, Stark, Lannister, Baratheon, and Martell, drawing inspiration from George RR Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series. Directed by Dominic Cooke and written by Duncan Macmillan, the story will explore the tumultuous final years of King Aerys II Targaryen, famously known as the Mad King, whose reign sparked Robert's Rebellion and the eventual downfall of House Targaryen. The cast for The Mad King has not yet been revealed.
How to Purchase Tickets for The Mad King
How to Buy Tickets for The Mad King
Tickets for the play can be acquired through the Royal Shakespeare Theatre's official website. Priority booking will commence on April 14, with general sales starting on April 22. Due to anticipated high demand, ticket purchases will be limited to four per person.
Understanding The Mad King
Who is The Mad King?
King Aerys II Targaryen, portrayed by David Rintoul, is the father of Queen Daenerys Targaryen (Emilia Clarke) and her siblings, Crown Prince Rhaegar Targaryen (Wilf Scolding) and Prince Viserys Targaryen (Harry Lloyd). Once a beloved monarch, Aerys descended into madness in his later years. He was imprisoned during the Defiance of Duskendale but was rescued by his loyal Kingsguard knight, Ser Barristan Selmy (Ian McElhinney), leading him to seek vengeance against those who wronged him.
His actions resulted in a rift with his Hand of the King, Lord Tywin Lannister (Charles Dance), particularly concerning his son Jaime Lannister (Nikolaj Coster-Waldau) and Rhaegar's abduction of Lady Lyanna Stark (Aisling Franciosi). This turmoil incited rebellion from House Stark, House Baratheon, and House Arryn against Aerys. Ultimately, it was Ser Jaime who ended Aerys' reign during the Sack of King’s Landing, earning the infamous title of Kingslayer.