Olivia Cooke, who plays Alicent Hightower in House of the Dragon, shared insights into her character’s journey and challenges in an interview with Time magazine. She discussed how the introduction of her youngest son, Daeron, affects her views on her other sons, Aegon and Aemond.
Daeron was raised in Oldtown alongside Alicent’s family, the Hightowers. According to Gwayne Hightower, he is kind and very different from Aegon and Aemond. Olivia Cooke talked about how Daeron’s influence makes Alicent reexamine her parenting choices.
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Olivia Cooke talks about how Daeron will make Alicent rethink her parenting choices
Photograph by Theo Whiteman/HBO
In an interview with Time magazine, Olivia Cooke discussed Alicent’s retreat to the woods. She explained that she needed space to plan for her family’s future away from the pressures of King’s Landing. Alicent struggles within the patriarchal structure of House of the Dragon. Even though she is a queen, her gender limits her influence. Cooke notes that Alicent naively believed she could avoid this because of her position but now realizes her gender still defines her. Her removal from the Small Council made her realise her situation.
Daeron, Alicent’s younger son, is introduced this season, and Cooke spoke about his significance in the story. She suggests that Daeron’s kind nature contrasts with his brothers, which makes Alicent reconsider her parenting and the environment of the Red Keep. Speaking about Daeron, Cooke said:
“It’s not a flippant mention. He’s mentioned for a reason in this season, for sure. I think that’s all I can say, really. I found that scene really beautiful to film, because it’s another moment for Alicent to reflect on what is the cause of her children’s behavior. Is it the court, their mother, or nature? It’s all the more reason why she does want to protect her daughter Helaena from the poison that does seem to be the Red Keep.”
As the season finale approaches, Cooke teases a significant shift for Alicent. She hints that viewers will see a different, more humbled version of Alicent. The finale will focus on Alicent’s priorities, including protecting Helaena and navigating the ongoing conflict. Cooke suggests that the audience will be surprised by Alicent’s actions and the implications for her story’s future.
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07/31/2024 07:57 pm GMT
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