The Dance of the Dragons continues this weekend as HBO’s “House of the Dragon” season 3, episode 3 airs today, Sunday, July 5, at 9 p.m. Eastern.

Following a season-opening Battle of the Gullet and the dramatic fall of King’s Landing in episode 2, we’re eager to see what comes next for Queen Rhaenyra Targaryen as she strives to solidify her claim to the Iron Throne.

If you don’t want to miss tonight’s episode when it premieres, I’ve pulled together the safest legitimate ways to watch it live and on-demand, including one streaming service currently offering a free trial.

Read on for everything you need to know about how to watch “House of the Dragon” season 3, episode 3 for free, along with episode details, streaming options compared and my predictions for the next chapter of HBO’s hit series.

How to watch ‘House of the Dragon’ season 3, episode 3 for free

The newest episode premieres on HBO and HBO Max (Max). Those with a cable contract can watch live through HBO or stream the episode through HBO Max.

While Max itself is not currently offering a free trial, viewers can still watch without paying upfront through live-TV providers that include HBO access.

Best free option: DIRECTV

For most viewers, DIRECTV remains the simplest free-trial option.

DIRECTV features

• Free trial available for new subscribers
• HBO channels available through qualifying packages
• Access to HBO live broadcasts
• Ability to authenticate into Max on supported plans
• Watch live at 9 p.m. or stream later on demand

Fans who sign up during the trial period can watch episode 3 without paying immediately, making it one of the best ways to catch the newest installment for free.

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More ways to stream ‘House of the Dragon’

Philo Bundle+

For viewers looking for a lower-cost entertainment bundle, Philo Bundle+ includes Max with ads alongside live television channels and on-demand content.

Bundle highlights

• 70+ live channels
• Max included
• Large on-demand library
• Entertainment-focused lineup

Sling TV + Max

Sling TV offers one of the most flexible streaming options.

Highlights include

• Orange and Blue plan choices
• HBO/Max add-ons available
• HBO live channels included with add-on packages
• Access to Max using Sling login credentials

Disney+, Hulu and Max Bundle

The Disney bundle remains a strong value for viewers wanting to combine streaming platforms.

This option won’t provide a free trial but offers significant savings compared to purchasing each service separately.

What about Disney’s class-action settlement?

Fans looking to stream “House of the Dragon” through DIRECTV should know that a current $50 million class-action settlement involving The Walt Disney Company does not affect HBO, Max, or the availability of “House of the Dragon.”

The lawsuit alleges that Disney’s channel-bundling practices increased costs for certain live-TV streaming services, including DIRECTV, and covers eligible subscribers who paid DIRECTV (including DirecTV Now and AT&T TV Now) between April 1, 2019, and March 31, 2026.

Disney denies wrongdoing but agreed to the proposed settlement, which may provide cash payments to qualifying customers who submit valid claims and the settlement clears a judicial review set for Jan. 14, 2027.

What happened in episode 2? (Spoiler alert)

Episode 2 dramatically altered the balance of power in Westeros. If you are behind on the show, skip past this section.

After mourning the devastating death of Jacaerys Velaryon during the Battle of the Gullet, Rhaenyra seized an opportunity created by the Greens’ weakened position. With assistance from Daemon and her dragon riders, she successfully captured King’s Landing and reclaimed the Iron Throne. The episode ended with Alicent and Helaena effectively becoming prisoners while Rhaenyra finally sat upon the seat her father intended for her.

The shocking execution of Otto Hightower further signaled that Rhaenyra’s reign may take a darker turn as the civil war intensifies.

‘House of the Dragon’ season 3, episode 3 predictions unleashed

Episode 3 shifts focus from conquest to governance. Now that Rhaenyra has achieved her long-sought victory in King’s Landing, the challenge becomes keeping power rather than taking it.

The HBO’s YouTube preview opens with Rhaenyra acknowledging that “all eyes” are now on her and emphasizing her desire to honor King Viserys’ vision for the realm. However, advisors quickly remind her that the dangers facing her new administration remain considerable.

One of the biggest moments teased in the trailer involves Daemon warning Rhaenyra that Daeron Targaryen remains a threat to her claim. Daemon bluntly suggests that eliminating rival claimants may become necessary if she hopes to secure lasting control of Westeros.

You should also expect:

• Growing tension inside Rhaenyra’s council
• Political complications surrounding Alicent’s captivity
• Questions about Aemond’s next move
• The continued rise of Daeron Targaryen
• Increased pressure on Rhaenyra’s morality and leadership style

Based on both the episode preview and events from the first two episodes, episode 3 appears poised to examine whether Rhaenyra can remain true to herself while ruling during wartime.