Why Larys Strong’s odd foot fetish in 'House of the Dragon' isn’t really about feet
Contains spoilers for 'House of the Dragon'
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: 'House of the Dragon' Season 2 is set to premiere on HBO on Sunday, June 16, 2024.
The fantasy action series offers an exhilarating blend of mind-blowing action sequences and equally intricate political scheming, making it one of the most eagerly anticipated shows of all time.
The show presents a diverse array of strong warriors and physically imposing characters, alongside others who may not possess the same physical prowess but compensate with cunning intellect and survival instincts in a brutal and unforgiving world. One such character is Lord Larys Strong (Matthew Needham).
Lord Larys Strong is the son of Lyonel Strong (Gavin Spokes) and brother of Harwin Strong (Ryan Corr). He earns the nickname 'Clubfoot' due to being born with a twisted foot.
In Season 1, he aligns himself with Alicent Hightower (Olivia Cooke) as an advisor and earns her loyalty by killing his father and brother in Harrenhall.
However, his relationship with Alicent Hightower became a major talking point in Episode 9 of Season 1 when Alicent exposed her feet to Larys, who seemed obsessed with them.
The scene stole the spotlight in the episode and stirred up quite a discussion, often seen as disturbing. However, beneath the surface, it may carry a deeper significance than commonly perceived.
Actor Matthew Needham explains the foot fetish
When Season 1 Episode 9 aired in 2022, the foot fetish scene between Larys and Alicent was mostly interpreted in its sexual connotation. However, actor Matthew Needham offers a different and deeper interpretation of the whole incident.
While speaking to People, he said, "I don't think it's a foot fetish like we understand it. I don't think he's sexually aroused by feet. It's more that he's making her show her feet. You know, this man who's had this club foot disability all his life is making this incredibly powerful person show him her feet."
He added, "It's such a power move. It's a way of reasserting control, putting someone in a box. It's a display of dominance, really making someone feel as ashamed of that part of her body as he does of his. It's associating her feet with something traumatic, which is what he does."
Viewing the interpretation through the perspective of a character primarily portrayed as an antagonist offers a fascinating angle on character justification.
Larys' character has mastered the art of survival in a merciless world that ridicules his disability, and these instincts surface repeatedly throughout the series.
Larys, as the master of whispers, stands as one of Queen Alicent's most crucial allies. She has placed unwavering trust in his counsel since her youth when she married the king.
He proved to be an invaluable asset to her, playing a pivotal role in her son's coronation as the King.
What will happen to Larys Strong in 'House of the Dragon' Season 2?
Larys Strong stands as a key figure within the Green faction in 'House of the Dragon' Season 2, working closely with Alicent to secure Aegon II Targaryen (Tom Glynn-Carney) on the throne.
According to 'Fire and Blood,' the book on which 'House of the Dragon' is based, Larys survives the Dance of the Dragons and escapes with Aegon when Rhaenyra Targaryen (Emma D'Arcy) seizes King's Landing. After Aegon kills Rhaenyra at Dragonstone, Larys returns to King's Landing with him.
He is ultimately executed by Cregan Stark (Tom Taylor), who instates Aegon III Targaryen on the throne. Larys gets the option of going to the wall but he chooses death instead.
How to stream 'House of the Dragon' Season 2
'House of the Dragon' is streaming on HBO Max on Sunday, June 16, 2024. To watch the series, you will need a Max Subscription. The streaming platform typically offers three packages that you can choose from depending on your budget.
The low-cost plan that supports advertising costs $9.99 per month or $99.99 annually.
The second package, which does not support advertising, costs $15.99 per month or $149.99 annually.
Meanwhile, the third package, titled Ultimate Ad-Free, costs $19.99 per month or $199.99 annually.
'House of the Dragon' Season 2 Trailer
'House of the Dragon' is streaming on HBO Max on Sunday, June 16, 2024.