Lore

Who is Gwayne Hightower? Everything you need to know about this House of the Dragon character

From arrogant nobleman to battle-hardened warrior.

Published

2 months ago

October 1, 2024

Ved Prabhudesai

Credit: HBO

House of the Dragon Season 2 has brought the Dance of the Dragons to life, introducing audiences to key players in the conflict. Among these is Ser Gwayne Hightower, brother to Queen Alicent and son of Otto Hightower. Gwayne’s character, briefly seen in Season 1, has now taken center stage in the unfolding civil war.This article explores Ser Gwayne Hightower’s role in the TV series and George R.R. Martin’s Fire and Blood, examining how his character has been adapted and expanded for the screen.

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Contents

4 Minutes Read

Who is Ser Gwayne Hightower?

Credits: Max

Ser Gwayne Hightower is a knight of House Hightower and brother to Queen Alicent. Raised in Oldtown, Gwayne was separated from his family at a young age when they moved to King’s Landing. His character in the show is portrayed as arrogant and outspoken, with a deep loyalty to his family and house.

Quick Facts

Son of Otto Hightower and brother of Queen Alicent
Knight of House Hightower
Participated in the Heir’s Tournament in Season 1
Plays a significant role in the Green faction’s military campaigns
Portrayed by Freddie Fox in “House of the Dragon”
The character undergoes significant development throughout Season 2

Gwayne Hightower in House of the Dragon

Credit: Ollie Upton/HBO

Season 1

Gwayne first appeared in the Heir’s Tournament, where he faced Prince Daemon Targaryen in a joust. Despite initial success, he was ultimately unseated by Daemon’s underhanded tactics.

Season 2

Season 2 has seen Gwayne take on a much more prominent role:

Arrives in King’s Landing at Alicent’s request
Joins Ser Criston Cole’s military campaign, initially showing disdain for Cole’s leadership
Survives a close encounter with Baela Targaryen’s dragon, Moondancer
Participates in battles at Duskendale and Rook’s Rest
Shows growth from an arrogant nobleman to a more empathetic and battle-hardened warrior

Key Moments

Gwayne’s initial arrogance gives way to a more nuanced portrayal as he faces the realities of war. Gwayne’s expanded role has added depth to the Green faction, providing a perspective that bridges the gap between the political machinations in King’s Landing and the brutal realities of the battlefield. His character development has been praised for humanizing the Hightower family and adding complexity to the conflict. Particularly impactful scenes include:

His confrontation with Ser Criston Cole about Cole’s relationship with Alicent
His reaction to the devastating battle at Rook’s Rest
Conversations with Alicent revealing his care for family and concern for his nephew Daeron

Read More: Everything we know about Ulf White

Gwayne Hightower in Fire and Blood

Credit: worshipanimation

Book Portrayal

In Fire and Blood, Gwayne’s role is less prominent. He is mentioned as participating in tournaments and later serving as second-in-command of the City Watch during the Dance of the Dragons.

Key Differences from the Show

The TV series has significantly expanded Gwayne’s character, giving him a more active role in military campaigns and exploring his relationships with other key characters, particularly Alicent and Criston Cole.

Final Fate in the Books

In “Fire and Blood,” Gwayne meets a tragic end during the fall of King’s Landing to the Blacks, killed by Ser Luthor Largent when attempting to raise the alarm.

Quotes

“Otto Hightower is ever-resourceful. He will send news when there is news to send. You get on with it, don’t you? When there isn’t any choice.”

Quick Answers

Who is Gwayne Hightower?

Gwayne Hightower is Queen Alicent’s brother and a knight of House Hightower. In “House of the Dragon,” he becomes a key military figure for the Green faction during the Dance of the Dragons.

What is Gwayne’s role in Season 2 of “House of the Dragon”?

Gwayne plays a significant role in the Green faction’s military campaigns, participating in key battles and experiencing character growth from an arrogant nobleman to a more empathetic warrior.

How does Gwayne’s portrayal in the show differ from the books?

The show greatly expands Gwayne’s role, giving him more screen time, character development, and involvement in major plot points than his limited mentions in “Fire and Blood.”

Who plays Gwayne Hightower in “House of the Dragon”?

Freddie Fox portrays Gwayne Hightower in “House of the Dragon.”

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