The bond between Ser Criston Cole and Ser Gwayne Hightower has been a hot topic among ‘House of the Dragon’ fans, with many speculating that their relationship is more than just friendship.
Now, actor Fabien Frankel has shared his thoughts on the popular fan theory, and revealed that he and co-star Freddie Fox have had similar conversations behind the scenes.
Fabien Frankel Reveals Freddie Fox Always Saw A Deeper Bond Between Gwayne And Cole
Frankel explained that he doesn’t know if the writers of the show had a romanticized idea of the relationship. However, both actors are ok with people seeing it that way.
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“I am not aware of it, but Freddie Fox and I are aware of our feelings about Gwayne and Cole. I don’t know that the writers feel necessarily that that’s something they want out there, but I will speak on behalf of Freddie and myself: We back that belief as far as people want to take it.”
When asked about the rise in popularity of Criston Cole and Gwayne Hightower, Frankel admitted he wasn’t as well-versed as the growing number of fans that “shipped” the two. He said he and Freddie Fox have talked a lot about their characters’ relationship and that they have a similar interpretation.
The two actors think there could be more to Gwayne’s affection for Criston than friendship or military camaraderie. “Freddie did absolutely see that. Freddie has felt that way; there’s definitely an arc that Freddie has been aware of. I don’t want to put words in his mouth, but certainly he and I have had conversations about Gwayne’s feelings for Cole.”
Gwayne’s Oldtown Invitation To Criston Sparked Even More Discussion
One of the reasons for speculation from fans is Gwayne’s offer to Criston to come with him to Oldtown. The scene had an emotional impact on many viewers, going beyond the discussion of two friends about their future. Frankel said that he had learned that Freddie Fox especially saw the moment as important.
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That is what made him believe that there was a deeper emotional story to Criston’s relationship with Gwayne. The actors would often talk about how Gwayne’s feelings might have changed over the years. That openness has only spurred more discussion within the House of the Dragon fandom.
Moreover, Frankel’s remarks illustrate how an actor can add their own emotional interpretation to a role without altering the official interpretation of the story. Frankel and Fox have not said it’s confirmed canon. The writers also haven’t confirmed if Criston Cole and Gwayne Hightower were meant to be a romance.
Yet Frankel’s candid remarks provide fans with a fascinating look behind the scenes and at the discussions that took place. At least for the actors involved, the bond between Criston and Gwayne carried emotional layers that audiences are free to interpret in their own way.
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