'House of the Dragon' star Ewan Mitchell reveals unexpected fan reactions

Ewan Mitchell said his portrayal of the ruthless Aemond Targaryen in House of the Dragon has had an unexpected effect off-screen, revealing that some fans seem genuinely intimidated when they see him in public.

The 29-year-old actor shared the amusing experience during a recent interview with People, explaining that his villainous role has earned him some unusual reactions from viewers.

"I've had people move out of the way for me," Mitchell said.

Recalling one memorable encounter, the actor said it happened at an airport while the show's second season was airing.

"I had to get from one side of the airport to another a couple of years back. I think it was season 2, episode 4, just as that episode had dropped," he explained.

Mitchell admitted he was worried about making his connection in time, but quickly realized fans were unknowingly helping him.

"I remember stressing, 'Oh my God, I've got to get from this side of the airport to the other side in less than five minutes,'" he recalled.

Instead of slowing him down, people simply stopped and stared as he ran past.

"Because people would stop and stare as I was running past them," Mitchell said.

Joking about the unexpected benefit of playing one of the series' most feared characters, he added, "When in doubt, when I've got to get somewhere fast, I'll put Aemond's wig on."

Mitchell has portrayed the volatile Targaryen prince since joining HBO's fantasy drama, with the character becoming one of the show's most formidable and feared figures.

The next episode of House of the Dragon is scheduled to premiere on Sunday.