Criston Cole

Born in 82 AC at Blackhaven, Criston Cole was the common-born son of the steward to the Lord of Blackhaven, a minor house of the Dornish Marches. His youth was marked by adventure; he fought for a year as a footsoldier in border conflicts with Dorne, taking part in the razing of two watchtowers along the Boneway before being knighted by Ser Arlan Dondarrion. With coal black hair and pale green eyes, he was considered charming by many ladies, but his station never allowed a formal betrothal. His exceptional skill with a morningstar and longsword, along with his service as a sworn shield, brought him to the attention of Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen, who chose him for the Kingsguard. [edit]

Criston Cole is a man of contradictions: outwardly honorable and dutiful, but inwardly prideful, resentful, and prone to bitterness. His devotion to the notion of honor often masks a deep-seated insecurity about his low birth, which fuels his ambition and his volatile reactions to perceived slights. After his romantic rejection by Rhaenyra, he becomes a scorned ex who lets his heartache fester into a vendetta, hiding behind a façade of loyalty while manipulating those around him. His actions are driven by a twisted sense of righteousness, making him one of the most complex and morally ambiguous figures in the Dance of the Dragons. [edit]

Criston's journey begins as a celebrated knight who wins the Maidenpool Tournament in 104 AC by disarming Prince Daemon Targaryen, a feat that earns him a place in the Kingsguard. His relationship with Rhaenyra, initially one of mutual respect, turns sour when she rejects his proposal to elope. This rejection transforms him into a bitter antagonist, leading him to align with Alicent Hightower and the Greens. He plays a pivotal role in crowning Aegon II, earning the nickname "Kingmaker," and rises to Lord Commander of the Kingsguard and Hand of the King. His military campaigns culminate in the taking of Harrenhal, but his story ends at the Battle of the Butcher's Ball in 130 AC, where he is killed by Alysanne Blackwood's arrows, carrying a reminder of Alicent until his final moment.[edit]

Criston Cole has become one of the most divisive characters in the House of the Dragon fandom. Critics have labeled him a 'master manipulator, a hypocrite, and a bitter ex,' while fans often use modern terms like 'incel' and 'fuckboy' to describe him. The Ringer published a 'Hater's Guide to Ser Criston Cole,' celebrating Frankel's ability to make the character 'the most pathetic, annoying, tiny little man who ever lived in Westeros.' Despite the hatred, Frankel's performance has been praised for adding depth, making Criston a compelling study of pride, resentment, and regret.[edit]