Who is Otto Hightower in House of the Dragon?

Quick Details

Who was Otto Hightower?

Credits: HBO

Otto Hightower was a knight of House Hightower from Oldtown. He served as Hand of the King to three different kings. Two of the kings removed him from office during their reigns. His family included his brother, Lord Hobert Hightower, and his children, Alicent Hightower and Gwayne Hightower. Alicent became the second queen to King Viserys I Targaryen. In the books, Gwayne served as second in command of the gold cloaks. Otto was also the uncle of Lord Ormund Hightower.

In his service as Hand of the King, Otto was cautious, methodical, and ambitious. He was proud and domineering, traits that earned him resentment and envy. Despite being respected for his learning, his bluntness and haughty nature made him unpopular with many. His greatest rival was Prince Daemon Targaryen, who he saw as a threat to the realm.

Otto later served as Hand to Aegon II Targaryen during the Dance of the Dragons. He was one of the key leaders of the Greens, the faction supporting Aegon’s claim to the Iron Throne. Otto’s character is portrayed as a mix of intelligence and arrogance. In the television adaptation House of the Dragon, Otto is portrayed by Rhys Ifans.

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Quick Facts

Show

• Otto served as Hand of the King to Viserys I and Aegon II.
• He opposed Prince Daemon, viewing him as a threat to the realm.
• He supported Alicent and her children, particularly Aegon’s claim to the throne.
• Otto’s political maneuvers were central to the rise of the Greens.
• He advised Alicent to align with Viserys after Queen Aemma’s death.
• He was removed as Hand for pressuring Viserys to replace Rhaenyra as heir.
• Rhys Ifans portrayed Otto in the show House of the Dragon.

Books

• Otto was appointed Hand of the King by Jaehaerys I after Prince Baelon’s death.
• He served as Hand during the reigns of Jaehaerys I, Viserys I, and Aegon II.
• Otto opposed Daemon Targaryen, fearing he would be a tyrant like Maegor the Cruel.
• He supported Rhaenyra’s claim initially but later shifted allegiance to Aegon II.
• Otto played a key role in the green council and Aegon’s coronation.
• He was dismissed as Hand during Aegon II’s reign for his cautious diplomacy.
• Otto was executed as a traitor after Rhaenyra captured King’s Landing.

In the Show

Credits: HBO

Otto Hightower’s Role in the Small Council

Otto Hightower was introduced nine years into King Viserys’ reign, where he attended a Small Council meeting. Lord Corlys Velaryon warned about the Triarchy threatening Westerosi ports. Otto dismissed Corlys’ concerns and changed the subject to the upcoming Heir’s Tournament. Later, he witnessed Grand Maester Mellos treating the king’s infected wound and ordered the affliction be kept secret.

That night, Prince Daemon led the City Watch in a brutal crackdown on criminals. Otto condemned Daemon’s methods as excessive at the next council meeting and demanded an explanation. Daemon justified his actions as protecting the realm during the tournament. Otto mocked Daemon’s neglect of his wife, prompting an argument that Viserys defused.

At the Heir’s Tournament, Otto sat with the king in the royal box. He grew angry when Daemon defeated his son, Ser Gwayne Hightower, and received his daughter Alicent’s favor. During the tournament, Otto informed Viserys of Queen Aemma’s difficult labor. He returned later to report both the queen’s death and Prince Baelon’s birth.

Otto attended the funeral of Queen Aemma and Prince Baelon. At a Small Council meeting, he urged Viserys to name a new heir, opposing Daemon’s claim. Otto described Daemon as dangerous and overly ambitious, insisting he could not be trusted. He suggested naming Rhaenyra instead, but the council did not reach a consensus.

In private, Otto advised Alicent to comfort Viserys, suggesting she wear her mother’s dress. Later, he reported Daemon’s behavior at a pleasure house, claiming he mocked Baelon’s death. Viserys was angered by Otto’s accusations but took no immediate action. Otto later attended Rhaenyra’s ceremony as Princess of Dragonstone and heir to the throne.

Conflicts with Daemon Targaryen

When Daemon stole a dragon egg, Otto volunteered to retrieve it. He led a delegation to Dragonstone and demanded the egg’s return. Otto accused Daemon of treason and insulted his union with Mysaria. The confrontation escalated until Rhaenyra arrived on Syrax and prevented violence.

Otto criticized Daemon’s actions in the Stepstones and opposed supporting his war. After Daemon returned victorious, Otto remained wary of his intentions. He watched as Daemon surrendered his crown and reconciled with Viserys, though Otto remained skeptical of his loyalty.

When Otto learned of Daemon and Rhaenyra visiting a pleasure house, he reported it to Viserys. He claimed it damaged Rhaenyra’s reputation. Viserys accused Otto of spying and dismissed his claims. This strained their relationship further.

Viserys eventually removed Otto as Hand of the King, citing compromised judgment. Otto defended his actions but accepted the decision. Before leaving, he warned Alicent of the dangers Rhaenyra posed to her children. He urged her to secure their position at court.

Otto later returned as Hand after Lyonel Strong’s death. He resumed his influence at court, advising Alicent on strategies to protect Aegon’s claim to the throne. Otto’s rivalry with Daemon and Rhaenyra continued to shape his actions.

The Green Council and Aegon’s Ascension

After Viserys’ death, Otto pressured Alicent to prioritize Aegon’s ascension. He reminded her of the threat Rhaenyra posed to her children. Otto argued that Rhaenyra would never allow Aegon to live peacefully and urged Alicent to act decisively.

Alicent disagreed, proposing peace terms instead. Otto argued Rhaenyra would never surrender and insisted on harsher measures. He began rounding up nobles to swear allegiance to Aegon and arrested those who refused.

Otto convened the Green Council to plan Aegon’s ascension. He informed them of Viserys’ supposed wish for Aegon to succeed. Lord Lyman Beesbury protested, leading to his death. Otto pushed for decisive action, including eliminating Rhaenyra and her family.

Otto orchestrated Aegon’s capture when he fled the Red Keep. He tasked Ser Erryk and Arryk Cargyll with finding Aegon. Otto also negotiated with Mysaria to retrieve Aegon, agreeing to shut down child-fighting pits in return.

In a private conversation, Otto confronted Alicent about her insistence on offering peace terms to Rhaenyra. He accused her of letting personal feelings cloud her judgment. Despite his objections, he complied with her decision to extend an offer of mercy, although he remained skeptical of its effectiveness.

During Aegon’s coronation, Otto’s satisfaction was short-lived. Princess Rhaenys and her dragon Meleys disrupted the event, causing chaos. Otto tried to maintain order but watched in fear as Meleys confronted the royal family. Rhaenys spared them and fled on her dragon.

Otto’s Confrontation at Dragonstone

Otto led a delegation to Dragonstone after Rhaenyra’s coronation. He carried Aegon’s terms for peace, which included allowing Rhaenyra to retain Dragonstone and ensuring her children held positions at court. Otto presented these terms, referring to Rhaenyra as “princess,” which she rejected, demanding she be addressed as “queen.”

Daemon dismissed the terms outright and mocked Otto for bringing them. Tensions escalated as Otto insisted on Aegon’s legitimacy, citing his coronation in King’s Landing and his possession of Aegon the Conqueror’s crown and sword. Otto argued that the Greens had already secured support from several key houses, diminishing Rhaenyra’s chances of victory.

Rhaenyra countered by reminding Otto of the oaths sworn to her at Viserys’ behest. Otto dismissed these as outdated, claiming Aegon’s birth changed the succession. Furious, Rhaenyra tore Otto’s badge of office from his cloak, calling him a traitor.

In an attempt to manipulate Rhaenyra, Otto presented her with a page from a book she and Alicent had read as girls. He appealed to their former friendship, urging her to accept peace. Daemon, angered by Otto’s maneuver, threatened him with execution. Rhaenyra intervened, promising a formal response later, ending the confrontation without bloodshed.

The Dance of the Dragons

Otto led a meeting of the Green Council, interrupted by King Aegon II and Prince Jaehaerys. Otto reported that Oldtown’s armies, led by his nephew Ormund, were preparing to march north. Aegon was displeased with Otto’s failure to gain support from the North and the Vale.

Aegon questioned why Rhaenyra wasn’t killed earlier, but Otto explained the opportunity had passed. He reassured Aegon by emphasizing tradition and precedent were in their favor. Otto continued to guide the council, pushing for alliances and strategizing their next moves in the conflict against Rhaenyra.

Later, Otto attended petitions at the Iron Throne with Aegon. Otto insisted on tithes for a Crownlands shepherds to feed dragons, opposing Aegon’s attempt to return a flock. When a blacksmith named Hugh demanded payment for armaments, Otto argued, but Aegon overruled him, insisting the crown must support its cause.

Returning to his chambers, Otto discussed their goals with Alicent. She defined victory as Rhaenyra bending the knee and Aegon ruling peacefully. Otto agreed but expressed frustration with her decisions. He admitted Lucerys’ death complicated their plans but warned that violence would now be necessary for victory.

Otto later visited Aemond and reprimanded him for discussing strategy outside the council. He urged Aemond to remain patient and act wisely, ensuring their goals remained achievable without impulsive decisions.

The Murder of Prince Jaehaerys

Following the murder of Prince Jaehaerys, Otto consoled Alicent, assuring her some good could come from the tragedy. At a Green Council meeting, Otto ordered an interrogation of a detained assassin, countering Aegon’s wish to execute him immediately. Otto suggested blaming Rhaenyra for the murder to rally support for the greens.

Otto proposed a public funeral procession for Jaehaerys to gain sympathy and weaken Rhaenyra’s position. Aegon opposed the idea but relented after Alicent’s support and Otto’s assurances it would benefit their cause. Otto emphasized the importance of public perception in strengthening their position during the war.

Despite early success with the procession, Aegon’s rash decision to execute the Red Keep’s ratcatchers undermined Otto’s efforts. Otto criticized Aegon for destroying the goodwill they gained and for reinforcing support for Rhaenyra among her allies.

Otto confronted Aegon after learning of a plot to assassinate Rhaenyra. He berated Aegon and Ser Criston Cole for their reckless actions. Otto compared Aegon unfavorably to Viserys, lamenting the lack of forbearance and dignity in his grandson. Aegon dismissed the criticism, showing little concern for Otto’s warnings.

In their final confrontation, Aegon dismissed Otto as Hand, appointing Criston Cole in his place. Otto warned Aegon he would regret the decision and left the council, disillusioned with the direction of the greens’ strategy.

Otto’s Departure and Legacy

After his dismissal, Otto privately confided in Alicent. He expressed frustration with Aegon and Criston, accusing them of prioritizing vengeance over the realm’s stability. Otto announced his intent to return to Oldtown to guide Prince Daeron or visit Highgarden to secure House Tyrell’s support.

Alicent encouraged Otto to pursue diplomacy, promising to work toward his return to court. Otto assured her that following their plans would bring peace and victory for the Greens. He silenced Alicent’s attempt to confess her sins, instead focusing on their shared goals.

Sometime after leaving the Red Keep, Otto was captured and imprisoned. His ultimate fate remains unresolved.

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In the Books

Credits: Naomi Buttelo

Otto’s Early Service

In 101 AC, King Jaehaerys I Targaryen appointed Ser Otto Hightower as Hand of the King after Prince Baelon Targaryen’s death. Otto moved his family to King’s Landing, including his daughter Alicent. As Jaehaerys’ health declined, Otto effectively ruled the realm during the last two years of the king’s reign.

When Viserys I Targaryen ascended the throne in 103 AC, Otto continued as Hand of the King. Over time, he became more arrogant, earning the resentment of many lords. Otto grew hostile toward Prince Daemon Targaryen, viewing him as a threat. He successfully convinced Viserys to remove Daemon from positions of power, though Daemon thrived as commander of the City Watch.

Otto feared Daemon would become a tyrant if he inherited the throne. He supported Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen as Viserys’ heir, despite objections to a woman’s succession. The tension between Otto and Daemon persisted, with Viserys attempting but failing to mediate.

After Queen Aemma’s death in 106 AC, Viserys named Rhaenyra as his heir. Otto’s daughter Alicent married the king shortly after, giving birth to Prince Aegon in 107 AC. Otto pressed Viserys to name Aegon as heir, leading to his removal as Hand in 109 AC. He returned to Oldtown but remained involved through allies supporting Alicent and her children.

In 120 AC, Otto returned as Hand following Lord Lyonel Strong’s death. At court, tensions grew between the greens, led by Alicent, and the Blacks, Rhaenyra’s supporters. Otto continued consolidating power in the small council, ensuring that key positions were held by his allies by 129 AC.

Otto and the Dance of the Dragons

When Viserys died in 129 AC, Otto played a central role in crowning Aegon II as king, ignoring Viserys’ will naming Rhaenyra as heir. This action sparked the civil war known as the Dance of the Dragons. Otto argued that Rhaenyra’s husband, Prince Daemon, would use her claim to seize control and destroy the greens.

Otto organized the Green Council, swearing loyalty to Aegon II. He ordered arrests of potential Rhaenyra supporters in King’s Landing and sent ravens to secure alliances. Otto appointed his son Gwayne as second in command of the gold cloaks to maintain order in the city.

Otto’s grandson, Aemond, traveled to Storm’s End to secure Lord Borros Baratheon’s support. When Rhaenyra’s son, Lucerys Velaryon, arrived with a counterproposal, Aemond confronted him. Their conflict led to Lucerys’ death, which enraged Daemon, escalating the war further.

Daemon sent assassins, Blood and Cheese, to kill Aegon II’s son, Jaehaerys. Otto responded by ordering a purge of ratcatchers and increasing King’s Landing’s defenses. Despite his efforts, tensions worsened as both sides sought vengeance, and the conflict spread across the realm.

Otto pursued alliances with foreign powers, including the Triarchy and House Greyjoy. However, King Aegon grew frustrated with Otto’s diplomatic approach. Viewing him as ineffective, Aegon dismissed Otto as Hand and replaced him with Ser Criston Cole, who favored direct action.

Otto’s Dismissal and Death

After Otto’s dismissal, his diplomatic overtures finally succeeded. The Triarchy sent a fleet to support the greens, leading to the Battle of the Gullet. Both sides suffered heavy losses, but the Velaryon fleet maintained its blockade of Westeros’ eastern coast. Otto’s contributions remained crucial to the greens’ strategies.

In 130 AC, Rhaenyra and her supporters captured King’s Landing. Otto was among the first executed as a traitor. His earlier prediction of his fate proved accurate. His death marked the end of his political career and influence in the Targaryen civil war.

Otto’s legacy was characterized by his ambition, intelligence, and determination to secure power for his family. Despite his cunning, his actions contributed to the devastating conflict that reshaped the Targaryen dynasty and the realm. His name remains associated with the Greens and their role in the Dance of the Dragons.

In A Storm of Swords, Maester Pylos referenced Otto’s failures as Hand of the King when discussing Davos Seaworth’s insecurities in his role as Hand to Stannis Baratheon. Otto’s tenure was a cautionary tale about the dangers of ambition and overreach in the pursuit of power.

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Quotes

“The gods have yet to make a man who lacks the patience for absolute power, Your Grace.”
―Otto to Viserys I Targaryen in House of the Dragon

“You only lost one eye. How could you be so blind?”
―Otto to Aemond Targaryen in Fire and Blood

Quick Answers

Who was Otto Hightower?

Otto Hightower was a knight of House Hightower from Oldtown. He served as Hand of the King to Jaehaerys I, Viserys I, and Aegon II. In the books, he played a crucial role in the events leading to the Dance of the Dragons, opposing Princess Rhaenyra’s claim to the throne. In the show, Otto is depicted as an ambitious and politically cunning figure who seeks to secure power for his family.

What was Otto’s relationship with King Viserys I?

In both the books and the show, Otto served as Hand of the King to Viserys I. He often clashed with Viserys over matters of succession, particularly regarding Prince Daemon and Princess Rhaenyra. Otto’s insistence on naming Alicent’s son, Aegon, as heir led to his dismissal as Hand in both versions.

Why did Otto oppose Prince Daemon Targaryen?

Otto opposed Daemon in both the books and the show because he viewed him as reckless and dangerous. Otto feared Daemon’s ambition and believed he would be a tyrant if he ascended the throne. In the books, he compared Daemon to Maegor the Cruel, citing his command of the City Watch as a particular concern.

What role did Otto play in the Dance of the Dragons?

In the books, Otto was instrumental in crowning Aegon II after Viserys’ death, defying the king’s will to name Rhaenyra as heir. He led the Green Council and worked to secure alliances for the greens. In the show, his role is portrayed similarly, emphasizing his political maneuvers and his influence over Queen Alicent.

How did Otto Hightower die?

In the books, Otto was executed as a traitor after Rhaenyra captured King’s Landing. His death marked the end of his influence in the Dance of the Dragons. The show has not yet depicted his death, leaving his fate uncertain in that version.

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01/15/2025 01:27 pm GMT