The Lord of the Tides

"The Lord of the Tides" is the eighth episode of the first season of the fantasy drama television series House of the Dragon, a prequel to Game of Thrones. The episode was written by Eileen Shim and directed by Geeta Vasant Patel. It first aired on HBO and HBO Max on October 9, 2022.

The episode features a six-year time jump after the previous episode and depicts the discussion in King's Landing regarding Lord Corlys Velaryon's successor as "the Lord of the Tides", initiated by his brother Ser Vaemond Velaryon's disapproval of the previously-approved successor, Corlys' grandson, Lucerys; King Viserys' deteriorating health leading to his death; and the announcement of the betrothals of Jacaerys Velaryon and Baela Targaryen as well as Lucerys Velaryon and Rhaena Targaryen.

In the United States, the episode gained a viewership of 1.7 million during its premiere night on linear television alone. It garnered highly positive reviews from critics, particularly for its direction, writing, pacing, and performances of the cast, especially Paddy Considine, who was considered the highlight of the episode. It received two Emmy Award nominations for its cinematography and prosthetic makeup. Several publications named it as one of the best episodes of the series and among the best television episodes of 2022.

"The Lord of the Tides" introduced several new cast members, including Tom Glynn-Carney, Phia Saban, Ewan Mitchell, Harry Collett, Bethany Antonia and Phoebe Campbell as the adult versions of Aegon, Helaena, Aemond, Jacaerys, Baela and Rhaena, respectively. It marks the final appearance of Wil Johnson as Ser Vaemond Velaryon.