🔥 Trending Who is Criston Cole? Exploring the Character from House of the Dragon

Ser Criston Cole is a prominent and often controversial character in George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" universe, particularly known for his role in the HBO series House of the Dragon. He is a knight from House Cole who rose to become the Lord Commander of the Kingsguard for King Viserys I Targaryen ¹³.

Early Life and Rise to Prominence

Criston Cole's background is notable because he is a common-born knight, meaning he achieved his status through talent and skill rather than noble birth ³. His exceptional combat abilities allowed him to earn a place in the Kingsguard, an elite order of sworn shields to the Targaryen monarchs ³.

Relationship with Rhaenyra Targaryen

Initially, Criston Cole shared a close, albeit complex, relationship with Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen, King Viserys's daughter and heir ¹. However, this relationship eventually turned adversarial ¹. Many analyses suggest that a significant turning point was Rhaenyra's rejection of his romantic advances and his subsequent perception that she disregarded his feelings and the difficult position she put him in ². This rejection is often cited as a key factor in his growing resentment towards her ².

Shifting Loyalties and the Dance of the Dragons

Following his estrangement from Rhaenyra, Criston Cole's loyalties shifted dramatically. He became a staunch supporter of Queen Alicent Hightower and her children, particularly Prince Aegon, in the succession dispute that would eventually lead to the civil war known as the Dance of the Dragons ⁷. He ends the first season of House of the Dragon as Lord Commander of the Kingsguard, a position of immense power and influence ³.

Character Portrayal and Future Developments

In House of the Dragon, Ser Criston Cole is portrayed by actor Fabien Frankel ⁵. Frankel has discussed the character's motivations, noting that by the events of House of the Dragon season 2, Cole is depicted as having a "death wish" ⁴⁷. This desire to die honorably in battle stems from his heartbreak over the collapse of his dream of a life with Alicent Hightower and his perceived lack of purpose ⁷. Insights from HBO's official podcast suggest that his love for Alicent and the loss of his personal aspirations have left him broken, with battle being his only remaining path to glory ⁷.

There are also hints from Frankel that crucial information about Ser Criston Cole's backstory will be revealed in House of the Dragon season 3, potentially offering further insight into his complex character ⁶. The series has also subtly foreshadowed his eventual death, with emotional scenes and monologues referencing the book's narrative ⁸.