In the treacherous realm of Westeros, where loyalty is fleeting and betrayal often leads to one’s downfall, Fabien Frankel has carved out a notable place for himself. Known for his portrayal of Ser Criston Cole in HBO’s “House of the Dragon,” Frankel has become a symbol of infamy and controversy. Despite the backlash, he’s managed to find a glimmer of appreciation from his loyal fans. Here’s a closer look at Frankel’s unexpected journey through the storm of public opinion.
From Hero to Villain: The Rise and Fall of Ser Criston Cole
When “House of the Dragon” first introduced Ser Criston Cole, fans were intrigued by the character’s noble demeanor and undeniable charm. Frankel’s portrayal of Cole initially won hearts, but as the series progressed, Cole’s dark side began to overshadow his earlier virtues. His dramatic shift from a valiant knight to a figure of contempt is a testament to the intricate storytelling of the show.
As the relationship between Cole and Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen unraveled, so did Cole’s moral compass. His rejection by Rhaenyra, following his proposal to elope to Essos, marked a pivotal moment. Consumed by anger and disillusionment, Cole’s decision to murder Ser Joffrey Lonmouth and support Aegon II’s claim to the throne transformed him from a beloved character to the most reviled man in Westeros.
Facing the Fury: Fabien Frankel’s Online Struggles
While Frankel’s performance as Cole has been lauded for its depth and authenticity, the actor himself has faced significant online vitriol.
“I’m glad they’re out there, man,”
Frankel remarked, expressing his relief that amidst the sea of hate comments, there are still fans who appreciate his work beyond the character he portrays.
In an exclusive interview with Esquire, Frankel opened up about the personal toll of being associated with such a loathed character. His social media, once a platform for engagement and connection, became a battleground of negativity. Comments like
“I hate Criston Cole. This dude’s a murderous f—ker. I hope he dies”
became a regular part of his online experience, pushing Frankel to limit interactions on his Instagram account.
The Thin Line Between Actor and Character
The intense reaction to Frankel’s role as Cole underscores a broader issue in fan culture—the difficulty of separating an actor from their character. Frankel’s portrayal of Ser Criston Cole, while masterful, has unfortunately led to personal attacks rather than recognition for his craft. As highlighted by fans on social media,
“Please remember to separate the character from the actor. Fabien has done a wonderful job portraying Ser Criston Cole and he deserves praise for it.”
The controversy surrounding Frankel serves as a reminder of the importance of distinguishing between fiction and reality. The actor’s performance in “House of the Dragon” has undeniably added layers of complexity to the series, and while Ser Criston Cole may be a figure of hate, Frankel’s commitment to his role deserves acknowledgment and respect.
As “House of the Dragon” continues to captivate audiences with its dramatic twists and turns, Fabien Frankel’s journey through the realm of Westeros reflects the challenges and triumphs of portraying complex characters. Despite the online harassment, Frankel remains a testament to the power of nuanced acting and the resilience of those who bring fictional worlds to life.
For fans and critics alike, the narrative of Ser Criston Cole is a reminder of the intricate interplay between actor and character, and the need for empathy in recognizing the difference. As the series progresses, and Frankel’s career evolves, his ability to embrace the positive amidst the storm of negativity is a testament to his professionalism and dedication to his craft.
“House of the Dragon” is currently available on HBO, offering viewers the chance to witness the rich tapestry of Westeros, including the unforgettable, and at times, divisive character of Ser Criston Cole.
