Criston Cole Actor Fabien Frankel on George R.R. Martin's Surprise

The path to playing one of Westeros' most morally ambiguous knights wasn't paved with conventional auditions for Fabien Frankel. As Ser Criston Cole in HBO's House of the Dragon, Frankel found himself cast in a role that even George R.R. Martin seemed to have a specific vision for. The acclaimed author, who co-created the series with Ryan Condal, revealed that he had Frankel in mind for the Kingsguard knight, a detail the actor found surprising and validating.

Frankel recently spoke about the unique casting process, noting that Martin's prior consideration added a layer of destiny to his involvement. "George had actually seen me in something, and I guess he had me in mind for the role," Frankel shared. This personal endorsement from the architect of the A Song of Ice and Fire universe undoubtedly shaped his approach to the character. Criston Cole's arc is one of the most dramatic and controversial in the first season, transforming from a noble warrior to a bitter, vengeful figure. Frankel’s nuanced performance has been crucial in navigating these complex shifts, making Cole a character fans love to hate, or perhaps, simply hate.

The Weight of Playing Criston Cole

Playing a character as polarizing as Ser Criston Cole comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. Frankel has openly discussed the difficulty of embodying Cole's descent, particularly his actions towards Rhaenyra Targaryen. The actor understands that Cole’s decisions are often infuriating to viewers, but he emphasizes the importance of understanding the character’s internal motivations, even when they lead to destructive outcomes. His performance is a masterclass in portraying internal conflict, ensuring that Cole remains a compelling figure rather than a caricature. The dynamic between Cole and Daemon Targaryen, portrayed by Matt Smith, is particularly fraught, providing some of the season’s most intense confrontations and showcasing the show’s commitment to complex character relationships.

Fan Reactions and Season 2 Stakes

Fans have been intensely debating Criston Cole’s actions and motivations since House of the Dragon first aired. His pivotal role in the events leading up to the Dance of the Dragons makes him a key figure in the unfolding civil war. The actor’s reflections offer fans a deeper appreciation for the character’s journey and the creative forces behind it. As viewers eagerly anticipate the next installment, Frankel’s insight into playing such a pivotal, often villainous, character adds significant weight to the upcoming narrative. The anticipation for Season 2 is palpable, with many eager to see how Cole’s story will continue to intertwine with the Targaryen dynasty's fate, and whether he will find any semblance of redemption or further embrace his darker impulses.

What's Next

Filming for House of the Dragon Season 2 is well underway, with the show expected to return to HBO in the summer of 2024. Fans can anticipate further exploration of the escalating conflict between the Greens and the Blacks, with Ser Criston Cole poised to play an even more significant role in the unfolding tragedy.