Who Was the Mad King?
Aerys II Targaryen begins his reign as a promising, even progressive king — but years on the throne, compounded by paranoia, court betrayals, and the psychological toll of repeated Targaryen intermarriage, gradually transform him into one of Westeros’s most infamous rulers. By his final years, he is violent, erratic, and dangerously unpredictable — hence the nickname that defines his legacy.
Family
His marriage to his own sister, Rhaella, produces three children: Rhaegar (Jon Snow’s biological father), Viserys, and Daenerys — though Daenerys is born only after both her father and older brother are already dead, meaning she never knew either of them.
The Fall of a Dynasty
Aerys’s erratic rule — including violent acts against his own court and the deaths of key noble figures — helps trigger Robert’s Rebellion, the war that ultimately ends nearly 300 years of Targaryen rule. During the rebellion’s climax, Aerys orders the destruction of King’s Landing with hidden caches of wildfire rather than surrender the city.
Death
Aerys is killed by Jaime Lannister, a member of his own Kingsguard sworn to protect him — an act that earns Jaime the lasting nickname “Kingslayer” and ends the Mad King’s reign in the sack of King’s Landing.
FAQ
Why is Aerys II called “the Mad King”?
For his descent into paranoia and violent, erratic behavior during the later years of his reign, culminating in his attempt to burn King’s Landing rather than surrender it.
Who killed the Mad King?
Jaime Lannister, a member of his own Kingsguard.
Was Aerys II Daenerys Targaryen’s father?
Yes — along with Rhaegar and Viserys, Daenerys is one of his three children with Queen Rhaella.