House of the Dragon Episode 5 marks the halfway point of the Game of Thrones spin-off. It will also serve as the last time we'll see several actors from the show who've made quite an impact on us viewers.
Don't worry, there's no drama going on behind the scenes. This was all intentional. Episode 6 of House of the Dragon will take place years into the future. Thus, HBO will replace, at the very least, four major characters and a handful of other minor characters with older actors to reflect this.
The two biggest and most prominent changes are with Rhaenyra Targaryen and Alicent High Tower. Milly Alcock and Emily Carey did a wonderful job portraying teenage versions of Rhaenyra and Alicent, respectively. However, for Episode 6 and onwards, Emma D'Arcy and Olivia Cooke will take over. Given Viserys' failing health and Rhaenyra's role as the heir to the throne, D'Arcy will find herself in the spotlight almost immediately. Of course, Emily won't be too far behind as Queen of the Seven Kingdoms.
Speaking of taking over, Laena and Laenor Velaryon will see each character's final actors take their place. John Macmillian will take over as Laenor with Nanna Blondell playing the almost-queen, Laena Velaryon.