At the CCXP Mexico, House of the Dragon star Olivia Cooke offered a raw and insightful take on Alicent Hightower’s complicated feelings towards Rhaenyra Targaryen. Cooke acknowledged that a deep love once existed between the two women, but years of war, loss, and political pressure changed everything.
“And I think there was a great love there once. I don’t know anymore what place she [Rhaenyra] holds in Alicent’s heart. I think survival is something that leaves her… that leaves her somewhat blind, besides trying to save Helaena. But I think that connection, that frustration, that attraction [magnetism] will always be there.”
Quick read:
- Olivia expresses Alicent’s complicated feelings towards Rhaenyra
- She explained how she is more driven by survival rather than personal relationships
- All her feelings towards Rhaenyra are definitely not dead
Young Rhaenyra and Alicent (Image: HBO)
Survival making Alicent “blind”
Cooke went further, explaining that Alicent’s fierce drive to protect her family has left her somewhat unable to see Rhaenyra clearly. According to Cooke, Alicent is so focused on keeping her children alive and maintaining power in a deadly game that it clouds her judgment and emotions toward her former friend. This “blindness” isn’t just hatred but is a survival mechanism that blocks out the lingering love, frustration, and attraction that still exists between them.
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This honest admission from Cooke adds new depth to Alicent’s character heading into season 3. As the Dance of the Dragons intensifies, Alicent’s internal conflict and her complicated bond with Rhaenyra remain at the heart of the story.
