'House of the Dragon' Season 2: Criston Cole's new haircut divides fans but Fabien Frankel explains why they did it
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: In 'House of the Dragon' Season 2, Episode 3, Ser Criston Cole (Fabien Frankel) debuts a fresh haircut that has sparked mixed reactions among fans.
Frankel's compelling performance has made Criston one of the most divisive characters in the series, delving into themes of toxic masculinity within Westerosi society.
This new look for Criston arrives at a pivotal moment in the story, coinciding with significant character developments and shifts in power.
Criston's controversial ascent from a sworn guard to Alicent Hightower to Lord Commander of the Kingsguard, and now Hand of the King under Aegon II, marks a dramatic shift in his role within the realm.
Despite his lack of qualifications for the position, Criston's promotion reflects Aegon II's demand for strength and decisive action.
Episode 3 sees Criston rallying the Greens' forces and beginning their march to war, marking a significant turning point in the series.
His haircut not only symbolizes a physical transformation but also mirrors his growing influence and ruthless ambition.
As fans debate the significance of Criston's new look, it's evident that his character's evolution will remain a central and contentious aspect of House of the Dragon.
Why did Criston Cole Cut his hair in 'House of the Dragon' Season 2?
In House of the Dragon Season 2, Episode 3, Ser Criston Cole's new haircut marks a significant moment in his character development, both practically and symbolically.
In an interview with Decider, Frankel said, "Well, for me, the haircut was a really big thing because it’s a military thing. You know? It’s impractical to have long hair in a battle. It just is. And short hair is practical."
This practical transformation underscores Criston's readiness for the impending battles, marking his shift from a courtly protector to a decisive military leader.
However, beyond its practicality, Criston’s haircut holds a deeper meaning. Criston is a complex character, internalizing much of his anger and shame, particularly towards Rhaenyra Targaryen and himself.
His haircut symbolizes an outward expression of these emotions. Having repeatedly broken his Kingsguard vows, his new role as Hand of the King forces him to confront his own perceived inadequacies.
Cutting his hair may symbolize an attempt to cleanse himself of recent mistakes, especially his failure during the Blood & Cheese incident and his shame from his relationship with Alicent Hightower.
As he tries to start anew, the question remains whether Criston truly possesses the qualities of a warrior and leader in the turbulent world of 'House of the Dragon.'
Fans give split reaction to Ser Criston Cole's new haircut in 'House of the Dragon' Season 2
Fans are divided over Ser Criston Cole's new haircut in 'House of the Dragon' Season 2, Episode 3.
Some appreciate the practical and symbolic layers it adds to his character development, seeing it as a representation of his readiness for battle and his attempt to reconcile with his past mistakes.
Others, however, are skeptical, viewing it as a superficial change that doesn't address Criston's deeper flaws and questionable actions.
The haircut has sparked lively debates online, with viewers eager to see how this transformation will influence his role as Hand of the King and his journey in the series.
One fan criticized Criston Cole's haircut, writing, "F**k ass haircut." Meanwhile, another fan expressed their approval, saying, "Just me cause I kinda like it. It ages him a little bit and makes him even more hateable."
Another fan expressed their dislike, saying, "I hate his new hair and why the fuck did it change mid episode."
However, another fan tried to explain the show's reasoning behind Cole's haircut, writing, "It was already pretty long. I'd imagine when you're off to war the last thing you need is your hair to be that awkward length where it gets in your eyes but also too short to pull up."
Another user commented, "New Job, new Criston, He wanted it to give "statesman" instead of "f**kboy", now that he's Hand."
As the season progresses, viewers will be keen to see how this transformation influences Criston's role as Hand of the King and whether it truly marks a turning point in his tumultuous path.
'House of the Dragon' Season 2 Trailer
