Fabien Frankel says Gwayne Hightower represents “everything that Criston disdains” on House of the Dragon

Quick read

• Fabien Frankel discussed Criston Cole and Gwayne Hightower’s bond.
• He said Gwayne represents “everything Criston disdains.”
• Despite this, Criston feels genuine fondness for him.

The yin‑yang dynamic

Frankel described the dynamic as a paradox. He told Variety, “There’s a genuine fondness that Criston has for Gwayne; there’s a yin‑yang aspect to them. Weirdly, I think Gwayne represents — on the surface — everything that Criston disdains in this world. Yet underneath, Criston’s found someone who will go to battle with him, who does have a heart, who does have empathy, who is much more than he appears.”

Brotherhood forged in war

He went on to explain how their bond is built through shared combat: “So their relationship is built through this, these guys going to war with each other. You hear any soldier talk about their time in the war, in any war, and they’ll say the relationships they formed are closer than anything you can possibly imagine because you’re living through life and death with these people. You’re risking your lives for each other. As a result of that, there’s a profoundness to their relationship.”

Why it matters

Frankel’s words highlight how Criston Cole, often seen as ruthless, is capable of forming deep attachments when tested by war. Gwayne, meanwhile, emerges as more than a symbol of privilege — his empathy and loyalty cut through Criston’s disdain. Their bond adds emotional depth to the Greens’ campaign, grounding it in human connection as much as political ambition.