If you've found yourself wondering who Annie Shapero is after watching the latest episode of House of the Dragon season three, you're not alone. The Australian actor has quickly become one of television's most exciting breakout stars thanks to her portrayal of Alysanne Blackwood – better known to fans as Black Aly – but Westeros is only the beginning. With major projects spanning prestige dramas, blockbuster franchises and independent film, Shapero is rapidly building a career worth watching.
Here's everything you need to know about the actor...
She's playing fan-favourite warrior Black Aly in House of the Dragon
Shapero joins the third season of HBO's House of the Dragon as Alysanne Blackwood, the fearless archer and warrior affectionately known as Black Aly. Long before appearing on screen, the character had become a cult favourite among readers of George R.R. Martin's Fire & Blood, making her arrival one of the season's most anticipated moments.
Speaking to Numéro Netherlands, Shapero described the role as a dream, saying she relished playing "a woman who holds such unadorned, fearless strength." She also underwent two months of horse-riding and archery training before filming to prepare for the physically demanding role.
Yes, she's Australian
Although she's now appearing in some of the world's biggest television productions, Shapero is an Aussie who began building her career at home before making the leap onto the international stage. Her growing list of credits has positioned her among a new wave of Australian actors finding success in Hollywood productions.
You may have already seen her in The Narrow Road to the Deep North
Before heading to Westeros, Shapero appeared in Justin Kurzel's acclaimed adaptation of The Narrow Road to the Deep North alongside Jacob Elordi, Thomas Weatherall, Olivia de Jonge and Odessa Young. The prestige Australian series helped to showcased her dramatic range and established her as one of the country's most promising emerging performers.
She's joining The Boys universe
Fantasy isn't the only major franchise on Shapero's résumé. She has also joined the expanding world of The Boys with a recurring role in the upcoming spin-off Vought Rising. While details surrounding her character remain under wraps, Shapero has described the project as "another epic world with insanely strong scripts" – making it an opportunity she couldn't pass up.
Her next film tackles beauty culture
Shapero also recently wrapped Saccharine, directed by Natalie Erika James. The Australian psychological horror film is an official selection of the 2026 Sundance Film Festival, and explores society's obsession with appearance and the ways beauty can become intertwined with self-worth. While she's keeping details about her role closely guarded, Shapero has hinted that her character helps set the story's unsettling events in motion.
Family keeps her grounded
As her international profile continues to rise, Shapero says staying connected to home remains her biggest priority. Asked how she stays grounded amid her growing success, she gave a simple answer: her family. "My family, specifically my mum," she told Numéro Netherlands, "Calling home is such medicine."
