Fans awaiting the live-action Legend of Zelda movie received an unexpected preview of the actor portraying Link in a recent episode of HBO's House of the Dragon. Benjamin Evan Ainsworth, who has been cast as the iconic video game character, appeared as Daeron Targaryen, the youngest son of Queen Alicent and King Viserys, in the latest installment of the Game of Thrones prequel series.
Ainsworth's character, Daeron, was sent away from the royal court to be raised by his mother's family, the Hightowers. This upbringing aimed to shield him from the political intrigue and corruption of King's Landing, potentially shaping him into a more honorable individual than his older brothers. The character's debut showcased him as a thoughtful boy, devoted to his dragon, yet still subtly influenced by the court's pervasive atmosphere.
This appearance serves as an early showcase for Ainsworth's fantasy acting prowess, following his work on Netflix's The Haunting of Bly Manor. His role in a major fantasy franchise like House of the Dragon provides a relevant demonstration of his abilities before he steps into the shoes of Link, a character from one of gaming's most enduring fantasy series.
Ainsworth's portrayal of Daeron has been noted for its effectiveness in conveying emotion through subtle performance, aligning with the traditionally silent nature of Link. The actor demonstrated a range of expressions, from wariness to affection and horror, suggesting he possesses the talent to embody Link's characteristic muteness. Should the Zelda movie incorporate spoken dialogue for Link, the notes suggest that Ainsworth's ability to perform with minimal lines could be integral to capturing the character's essence.