It feels like Game of Thrones mad king has really been getting out of hand lately! Anyone who grew up with the series or has read George R. R. Martin’s books knows just how wild things can get in Westeros. The series began back in 1991 with the books, and then HBO turned it into a massive hit that everyone had seen by 2019. Now fans are absolutely thrilled because there’s a new way to experience the story. People are scrambling for tickets to a new play that showcases the terrifying “Mad King.”
A New Look at the “ Game Of Thrones Mad King”
Finally, there’s a new photo showing King Aerys II Targaryen, also known as the “Mad King.” He is seated on the Iron Throne in the new play titled Game of Thrones: The Mad King. It looks quite different from what we know from the TV series. This version of the throne actually matches the description George R. R. Martin provided in his books. It has steps and looks like a jagged, chaotic, and terrifying pile of metal. It’s definitely a nightmare come to life.
The play is directed by Dominic Cooke and written by Duncan Macmillan. It’s also a long play. You’ll be in the theater for 3 hours and 40 minutes, including a 20-minute intermission. The performances take place at the Royal Shakespeare Theater. You can see the play from July 28 through September 5. The story sounds exciting, just as we’d expect from this series.
the mad king review
The story takes place at Harrenhal. Winter is drawing to a close, and spring is just around the corner. Everyone is preparing for a grand celebration ahead of a jousting tournament. People are eagerly discussing who might win. But disaster is brewing in secret. The Mad King is committing some truly horrific, bloody acts, and some people close to him are beginning to plot a secret rebellion against him. In addition, the sound of battles can be heard in the distance. It’s all about family secrets, ancient prophecies, and the question of who will rule next. A quote from the series goes: “Wars are not won by those with the best reasons, but by those whose story is best told.”
The cast list is quite extensive. Michael Shaeffer plays King Aerys II Targaryen. Then we have Michael Abubakar as Eddard Stark, Elizabeth Ayodele as Princess Elia Martell, and Maxim Ays as Ser Jaime Lannister. Also featured are Miles Barrow as Benjen Stark, Islam Bouakkaz as Howland Reed, and Luke Brady as Brandon Stark. Marty Breen plays Catelyn Stark, and Daisy Franks plays Cersei Lannister. Also appearing are Richard Hansell as Grand Maester Pycelle and Daniel Hawksford as Ser Barristan Selmy, along with many other actors.
Most reviews of the play were excellent. The start was a bit rocky at first, but the previews were met with standing ovations. Currently, the play can only be seen at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre during its limited run. We don’t yet know if it will be performed at other venues later on, but fans are certainly hoping so.
how to watch the Mad King
This is primarily a purely theatrical endeavor. To create a profound experience, the Royal Shakespeare Company is completely transforming the space of the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon. The season begins with previews on July 20, 2026, with the official premiere on August 8, and performances run only until September 5.
Currently, tickets are the only way to attend. While sales begin on April 14, no plans for live streaming .