Smith played againstClaire Foyin early iterations of the characters.
And due to the similarities between Philip and Daemon, casting became a no-brainer.
Hes playing second fiddle, in that case, to his wife.
Image via HBO
In bothThe CrownandHouse of the Dragon, Smiths characters are tertiary leaders.
They have lines to the throne but ultimately have to become supportive figures for their wives.
They both chafe at the desire for power while they have none for themselves.
An internal succession war within House Targaryen at the height of its power, 172 years before the birth of Daenerys Targaryen.
But that is why the casting of Smith in these roles is so brilliant.
TheDoctor Whoactor has always found humanity in some parts that could be regarded as cold.
At many turns, Daemon appears to support his wifes claim to the throne.
He punishes those who dare speak against her and accepts her children as his own.
Interesting characters are never absolutely one thing or another.
