For much of House of the Dragon, Criston Cole’s story has been defined by two women: Rhaenyra Targaryen and Alicent Hightower. Fans have long debated which relationship had the greater impact on the King’s Hand, especially in his final episodes. According to Fabien Frankel, the answer is surprisingly clear. While both women occupied space in Criston’s mind, the actor believes Alicent was the person he was truly thinking about near the end.
Quick read:
- Fabien Frankel discussed Criston’s final mindset.
- Alicent mattered more than Rhaenyra.
- Winning the war remained his mission.
Frankel sees Rhaenyra as an afterthought
Speaking to Variety about Criston’s emotional state, Frankel explained that his character approached feelings the same way many men throughout history often have: by burying them beneath duty and responsibility.
“Haven’t men always done that in history? Just march on, and go to work, ‘I’m not going to deal with anything that I’m really feeling, I’m just going to go on and get on and do something, and that thing is going to supersede whatever I’m feeling!’”
Even so, Frankel doesn’t believe Criston had completely forgotten either of the women who shaped his life.
“But it’s inevitable that Rhaenyra and Alicent are both on his mind all the time.”
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That said, one relationship clearly carried more weight than the other.
HBO
Alicent became Criston’s driving motivation
Frankel revealed that when he thought about Criston’s final journey, Alicent remained at the center of it.
“I think Alicent much more than Rhaenyra. Certainly for me, Rhaenyra has become a sort of afterthought.”
It’s a notable interpretation given how pivotal Criston’s relationship with Rhaenyra was during the first season. Over time, however, his loyalty and emotional investment became tied far more closely to Alicent and the Green cause.
Frankel concluded by explaining what ultimately motivated Criston as the war intensified.
“And actually, it’s just the idea of winning the war for Alicent.”
For fans, the comments reinforce something that became increasingly clear as the series progressed. While Criston’s heartbreak over Rhaenyra may have shaped his path, his devotion to Alicent ultimately defined it.
Read next: “Alicent is the only true thing he’s loved”: Fabien Frankel talks about Criston Cole’s final moments
