HBO’s latest Game of Thrones prequel, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, takes a refreshingly compact approach to storytelling. Unlike the sprawling epics we’ve come to expect from Westeros, this six-episode season features tighter, more focused chapters that range from just 31 to 42 minutes each.
Set 90 years before the events of Game of Thrones, the series follows the adventures of Ser Duncan the Tall and his squire, Prince Aegon Targaryen, based on George R.R. Martin’s beloved Tales of Dunk and Egg novellas.
A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: Episode Runtime & Release Schedule
Here’s your complete guide to when and how long each episode will be:
| Episode | Title | Release Date | Runtime |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Hedge Knight | January 18, 2026 | 42 minutes |
| 2 | Hard Salt Beef | January 25, 2026 | 33 minutes |
| 3 | The Squire | February 1, 2026 | 31 minutes |
| 4 | Seven | February 8, 2026 | 34 minutes |
| 5 | TBA | February 15, 2026 | 37 minutes |
| 6 | TBA | February 22, 2026 | 31 minutes |
The premiere episode clocks in at 42 minutes, giving HBO ample time to introduce viewers to Dunk and Egg’s world at the Ashford tourney. Meanwhile, episodes 3 and 6 are the shortest at 31 minutes, suggesting highly focused storytelling around specific events.
Why Shorter Episodes Work for This Series
This deliberate choice to keep episodes under 45 minutes marks a significant departure from the feature-length installments that defined later seasons of Game of Thrones. The streamlined format suits the intimate, character-driven nature of the Dunk and Egg stories perfectly.
Unlike the multiple plotlines and sprawling locations of its predecessor, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms follows two central characters on a singular adventure. The tighter runtime keeps the narrative momentum strong while avoiding unnecessary padding.
For fans seeking similar fantasy content, check out our coverage of upcoming fantasy series and HBO’s 2026 lineup.
What to Expect from Season 1
Based on Martin’s The Hedge Knight novella, the first season chronicles Dunk’s transformation from a lowborn hedge knight to a true defender of the realm. Starring Peter Claffey as Dunk and Dexter Sol Ansell as Egg, the series has already been renewed for a second season slated for 2027.
The supporting cast includes Daniel Ings, Bertie Carvel, and Sam Spruell, bringing to life the noble houses and colorful characters that populate this corner of Westeros. With weekly releases running through February 22, fans have just over a month to immerse themselves in this new chapter of the saga.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes are in A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms Season 1?
Where can I watch A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms?
The series streams exclusively on HBO Max with new episodes releasing every Saturday through February 22, 2026.
