Alicent Hightower is Actually Hilarious - House of the Dragon - Game of Thrones

[@theaudjob3267]

I think in a weird way Criston and Alicent are both not over Rhaenyra

[@alesksander]

yeah i think Alicent had something sexual towards Rhaenyra. But thats mine theory.

[@RS-bn1ty]

@@alesksanderthat may be because Emma and Olivia have amazing chemistry off screen as well lol

[@JustAsteria58]

they literally had sex in Rhaenyra's old room

[@prolastmedia6171]

That's exactly what's going on. Criston is still calling Rhaenyra childish names every time she gets mentioned, clearly because he still feels extremely hurt and shamed by her rejection. Similarly, romantic or not, it's obvious Alicent has a deep emotional affection for Rhaenyra while also having extreme jealousy against Rhaenyra for being bold enough to demand her own physical gratification as well as having a Father who loved her more than he loved the game of thrones, unlike Otto who pimps his daughter out just for a chance to move his chess pieces. I think the entire basis for Alicents personality is a strange, obsessive complex over Rhaenyra for the reasons above as well as a deep seeded fear of abandonment after her mother's death

[@alesksander]

@@prolastmedia6171 HMM i wish there would some phycologist debate about that I m not too good about that . For sure complexion is quite rich there. Romantically or just platonically connected or not Alicent indeed seemly stills clings over pseudo rejection by Rhaneyra.

[@Jaduprune77]

Its funny how both Rhaenyra and Alicent got sexually involved with : -a Crispin Cole -a Strong -a Targaryen 🫢

[@umitencho]

At least the choices Rhae chose were all good looking. Larys could larrp as Richard III & Visy 1 was rotting while alive.

[@rodneykelley2917]

Would Larys count? It's not reciprocated.

[@ThommyofThenn]

​@@umitenchoI don't recall how he's described as looking in the books besides his trademark way of walking. In the show, the actor is definitely playing into Larys' creepier angle but I assume people interested in men would find him comely with his chiseled features

[@ThommyofThenn]

​@@rodneykelley2917Definitely not reciprocated but he absolutely did it for sexual reasons. It's absolutely not about love. Therefore, 'sexually involved,' is accurate, it has to be said. Which makes it all the creepier and scummy of him to take advantage like that

[@alvarogabrielaguirregarin3933]

@@ThommyofThenn Poor bastard should have take everything he could from Alicent... from feet upwards.

[@Laramaria2]

Alicent said "We can't do this anymore" and what I heard was "we will be doing it again before the episode ends" 😂

[@HB-ey2dk]

"Oh and my daughter is going to see us doing it too so we're potentially screwed.. in the bad way this time" 😂

[@movieloverfan18]

Criston Cole's tone when responding by agreeing was totally, yes I've heard that before.

[@anamariapopa9431]

oh no the poor man is being sa-ed. why does lml say it's consenting when clearly the poor man doesn't want to, just like he didn't want with the teenage princess. oh the horror.

[@cecem.9921]

Honestly, after laying with King Viserys that looked like a leper zombie, I’m not judging her for wanting to get with Sir Criston… she earned it.

[@misspowers]

This is the only comment that made me nod in approval lol still nodding 🥲 Alicent said I did my time and I want out!

[@OoOMonkeyCoFreakOoO]

Wtf did she earn? She is a brat

[@stoheha]

Gonna add that while Criston did swear to celibacy, let's be real, making someone commit to no intimacy for life just makes someone a ticking time bomb.

[@greencookiegamer]

When she met and got married to viserys, he was probably quite handsome (not really too old, long white hair targaryen blood) literal king (the most powerful and influential man alive at the moment) and probably most wanted as a husband or partner of every woman in westeros. People age and get sick, and most of the time that doesn't lead to their loved ones avoiding and being discusted by them. They probably weren't even having sex because of his condition, and I would guess alicent still loved him

[@thing_under_the_stairs]

@@greencookiegamer Did you miss the sex scene where she was staring at the ceiling with that zoned out look on her face, like she wished she could be anywhere else in the world? She might have cared about Viserys, but she wasn't attracted to him

[@cnmcnm5853]

Although Cole is low-born, Aegon and Aemond seems to respect him more than anyone else. It's almost like a father-figure dynamic.

[@klarakhan]

Tbh he was the closest thing to a father they had, esp judging by their sword-lessons

[@cnmcnm5853]

@@klarakhan True...

[@Jesussaves7811]

If Aegon and Aemond finds out Cole was banging their mother while baby Jehaerys was killed, that respect will go out the window.

[@achohelelwhy]

For sure. He's known them and protected them their whole lives, and took an invested interest in their training. He was more hands on than Viserys.

[@jonathan0225]

@@achohelelwhy and now he's the hand. but before that, has his hands on their mother so. LOL

[@rachi5359]

Oh Larys 100% knows. He’s playing the long game, making Alicent over think and become paranoid.

[@DavidLightbringer]

yeah he can't be in the dark can he

[@rachi5359]

@@DavidLightbringerhe’s planting seeds just like Varys 🌱

[@samf.s.7731]

Good one! I agree, I think that makes sense.

[@rachi5359]

I just don’t trust him whatsoever. I love the actor’s portrayal as it’s Varys-like but adds his own flavor of creepy to Larys. I feel like he is very conscious about what information he wants to reveal and when. I smell a rat (literally lol)

[@jessjess23brooks89]

​@@rachi5359We never got Varys driving Cersei insane in the Red Keep, so they are feeding us with this one.

[@jacobsquare4812]

As soon as she said they couldn't do it anymore, I rolled my eyes. "Sure, Jan." Lmao

[@fangal12]

Yeah, you know she says that after every time 😅

[@alvarogabrielaguirregarin3933]

She is a regretter, I have had a couple of those. Much fun.

[@thatwitchychick2717]

I want Daeron to show up looking Dornish more than I've ever wanted anything in my life. 😂😂

[@DavidLightbringer]

hehehehe

[@joly457]

Same!!😂

[@Dani_1012]

Half the fandom would be furious but godamnit if it wouldn't be hilarious 😂😂

[@SachinKahandal-t4p]

Why darnish?

[@joly457]

@@SachinKahandal-t4p because thats what Crispy Cream is.

[@jazwhoaskedforthis]

A director actually cutting an unnecessary sex scene in the ASOIAF universe? Can you imagine

[@JessP-ut9gl]

I think they made it a point in this series to be way more purposeful with it lol.

[@rhonwenbaker2448]

@@JessP-ut9gl background imagery to a crucial biographical monologue is purposeful, too...

[@JessP-ut9gl]

@@rhonwenbaker2448 I agree, I think people felt that the sex scenes in GOT became gratuitous over time for the sake of shock value. That's what i was referring to.

[@rhonwenbaker2448]

@@JessP-ut9gl fair

[@elsafowl]

Yeah, and that's what I love about HoD, too. Contrary to GoT, each scene is thoughtfully written and has a clear purpose, so if we have a sex scene or a very violent scene, it will be earned and logical. Alicent and Criston's sex scenes are very short and unmoving, unemotional because Alicent is using him to feel in control, and he is using her probably for some personal gain I don't care to think about as well. It's not a profound romance at all. Actually, the very few sex scenes we have in HoD aren't comfortable or loving because they always are the results of toxic dynamics and power imbalance between the two participants (Daemon grooming Rhaenyra, Viserys forcing himself on Alicent, etc). The closest sex scene we can have is Rhaenyra and Criston sleeping together because they both consent, I guess, and even then, the power imbalance between the princess and a simple Knight is felt.

[@tyrionlannister521]

The way Cole STILL talks about the “cunning spider” and all that after so many years, says to me that he’s still not over Rhaenrya. He was just mad about being the “side piece.” He just strikes me as a whiny b*tch.

[@RS-bn1ty]

Hahaha the username is funny because I could see Tyrion saying this to him if he were alive during that time 😂

[@jeebanjeeban87]

he was also mad cause someone replaced him fast. rhaenyra offered him the "side piece job", rejects it, and then easily found someone else.

[@JB-xl2jc]

And the irony is now he's a secret side piece to Alicent who can never publicly or even "open secret"-ly acknowledge him, lol

[@MatthewTheWanderer]

Yes! "Whiny bitch" describes him very well and is the main reason I don't like him.

[@kenjinpiniteu]

@@JB-xl2jc LOL this. Criston Cole (TV show at least) was your typical 'niceguy' - the moment Rhaenyra rejected him, he did a 180 and wanted her and her entire faction dead all the while hiding behind his so called 'honor' and 'righteousness'...while tonguing Alicent's kitty, failing to protect Aegon's children and forcing a loyal kingsguard to kill his own brother (kinslaying) for his own misplaced guilt.

[@laurelsilberman5705]

I think it’s kind of implied that like, the second Viserys was dead and Aegon was crowned, they jumped into bed together, but this new aspect to their relationship was only recently introduced. And both of them are so awkward and have only ever had vaguely traumatic experiences related to sex, and so the moment that Alicent gets “demoted” in the eyes of the crown to Dowager Queen, she’s kind of free to do what she wants when it comes to her bedroom activities so long as she doesn’t get caught, because like, ultimately it doesn’t really matter. And technically Criston Cole is sworn to protect Aegon and Jahaerys (WHOOPS) and now they’re both going to be extremely traumatized because they were dumb enough to leave literally everyone of importance, Aegon, Helaena, and Helaena’s children, specifically Jahaerys, Aegon’s heir, unprotected at night SO THEY COULD BONE INAPPROPRIATELY AND SHAMELESSLY, probably both of them thinking about rhaeneyra the whole time lmao. But like holy shit can you imagine what Criston is going to be like now? Hoo boy if you thought he was repressed rage and self-loathing before, he’s gonna be an absolute tornado of shame and guilt coming up😅

[@thevikingbear2343]

I think Larys now 100% knows after replacing the staff

[@HB-ey2dk]

Oh he for sure knows. I also think it's a major reason why Haelena had no nannys or handmaidens around during B&C because she must have dismissed them for the night

[@movieloverfan18]

The way he said said that Alicent was " indisposed", yep he totally knows.

[@Jesussaves7811]

From what Olivia Cooke says, Alicent is going to blame herself for Jehaerys death since she is the reason Cole wasnt at his post. Their relations is definitely going to cause some drama though, possibly damaging what little relationship she has with her children.

[@Jen7867]

Ikr? 🙂 I was saying on another channel that when Helena ran from Blood and Cheese and into her mother's room, she was reeling from witnessing her son's murder and just trying to keep her daughter and herself alive. So I understand completely that the human drive to survive takes precedent over emotionally reacting to an affair. (Who would have had any energy left, after what she had just been through? Poor woman!). Still, another part of me wondered if Helena didn't react to the affair because she already knew about it. Out of all of Alicent's children, I believe Helena would be the one who was most likely to not really care much about it either way. She has always been a gentle soul. And she tends to have her mind focused in on a completely different level than many of the people around her. Still, in this world, the stakes of promiscuity are higher for these two characters. Alicent is risking her reputation as a "respectable woman" and perhaps all of the political power and influence that she has left. While Criston is risking torture and death for breaking his kingsguard oath. Considering their dispositions, whenever Aaemond and Aegon find out about their mother and Cristons' relationship, I expect both of them to react VERY differently than Helena did!!!

[@SuperStella1111]

@@Jen7867 she didn’t react because it didn’t even register. We saw the scene from her perspective - camera rushing, bursting into a room, seeing a blurry image of someone else, collapsing on the floor…she didn’t even notice. She saw her child killed and just rescued the other.

[@Jesussaves7811]

@@Jen7867 Agreed and you worded it alot better than I did. I think they will be found out and Aemond and Aegon will lose whatever respect they had for her and she will be stripped of the dwindling power she has left. What I find strange is Akicent not trying to repair the rift between herself and Aemond. He is their biggest gun and the reason Rhaenyra hasn't taken Kings Landing after all..

[@Jen7867]

@toxicmasculinity6554 Well, thanks, that's kind of you to say! That is a very good point - having Aemond on her side would definitely be a be a boost to Alicent's power. I'm glad you mentioned it, because I hadn't thought about it.

[@davisj7973]

blame herself for a few seconds before fkn him again

[@chappy1116]

I'm a little exhausted from the critique I keep seeing of the Blood and Cheese scene. In the book, the mission was to kill one of the children in order to traumatize the adults. In the show, it was to assassinate Aemond (or, you know, whoever really). It wouldn't have made sense for B&C to suddenly be engaging in psychological warfare. Helaena just listened to the sound of her baby's head being sawed off, I'm pretty sure she's going to feel sufficiently traumatized, everyone. And now Alicent is going to feel partially responsible, which will come with its own level of trauma. It works.

[@Acroteleutium]

Alicent is leaning more "Housewives of the Dragon" and I love it.

[@DavidLightbringer]

ooooh that's good

[@MatthewTheWanderer]

@IBSSnape Or Housewives of King's Landing (since usually they mention city names in other versions in real life).

[@quannguyen1381]

Reality Show that put Alicent,Cersei,Sansa, Margaery, The Shame Lady, and last but not least madame Olenna in the SAME PLACE 😅😅😅😅 The Real Housewives from King's landing.... The Drama itself that could make the Night King shaking 😅😅😅😅

[@MatthewTheWanderer]

@@quannguyen1381 Yes, that would be hilarious! Also, "The Shame Lady" is Septa Unella. Might as well include Rhaenyra and Daenerys, too.

[@viceb7]

😂😂

[@natedogg890]

It's ironic that Alicent's story last ep began with her getting head, and ended up with her grandson losing his

[@adaezez8378]

Lollll😂

[@johnnygreenface]

Iconic!

[@autje1970]

Criston called Rhaenyra a 'cunning spider'. And Alicent probably a 'cunnilingus spider'.

[@DavidLightbringer]

then there's Larys the SpiderVoyeur :(

[@autje1970]

@@DavidLightbringer The interesting aspect of that dynamic is that in the sexual relationship (of sorts) that she has with Larys, he has the upper hand, yet with Criston she is on top (also literally!).

[@cherylbaxter8986]

An how do you think this will end , as it will come out an we all know what Crispin is like he's a sook an will blame others but himself

[@misanthropicservitorofmars2116]

I’m surprised Criston can string a sentence together with a negative intelligence status.

[@kenroycherrington148]

FACETIOUS PUN

[@lancefullmer9384]

"Its absolutely delicious that's why I'm stealing it" is somehow the most Targaryen reply possible

[@DavidLightbringer]

haha thank you it's a fun character to.. "write for" I guess you'd say

[@yensid4294]

I love how hard the show is going with the Arthurian references of Lancelot & Guinevere with Criston & Allicent.

[@thechosenonetim7738]

It was interesting to see Aegon getting drunk in the throne room and boasting with a couple of his friends. It makes it that much more apparent how sad and sheltered King Joffery was; his mother was too indulgent and he was a true mama's boy with not even one friend of his own.

[@RockChick63174]

Oh Lordy, King Joffrey. What a nightmare. Great character, though.

[@alex52043]

Joffrey's not the kind of person who gets friends. The guy was torturing small animals as soon as he could walk.

[@ChristineBrennan-qr6vr]

Joffrey was a psychopath

[@Fairlyfloss4]

The amount of times this man said he isn't Team Green it's like he's fearing for his life 😂

[@DavidLightbringer]

you ain't lying

[@prolastmedia6171]

Lol exactly what a Team Green would say

[@riverbanzachamploo9725]

Understandably so. If I got accused of being team green I'd deny it like my life depended on it.

[@guyledouche7939]

I'm Team Green. Legal precedent. A female heir need not be unnamed. She is unnamed the second her brother draws breath. Deal with it, or change my mind.

[@chiaravranici3689]

@@guyledouche7939 why would you think that something like that should be normal though? what gives a man more rights to inherit the throne in this case than a woman just because, again, he's a man? And I'm not talking about just Rhaenyra but all the other instances, like Rhaena the back bride and the first Daenaerys. And there's no legal precedence, Westeros does not have laws of succession about these things apart from the widow's law, which again,if applied, kind of support Rhaenyra more in this case. It's tradition, a tradition that began the moment that Aenys set upon having Aegon as his heir instead of either Rhaena or even Maegor.

[@WeaselSoup-su5yu]

Thanks for addressing Larys’s possessiveness over Alicent. I know he wants leverage, but he also gets off on having power over her. She’s HIS dirty little secret and definitely salty about Ali and Criston’s extracurricular activities. He will want to make them both pay. He reminds me more of Roose Bolton than of Littlefinger.

[@DavidLightbringer]

I agree with that comp

[@hakunamatata3214]

"The lake, maybe that's a big enough bath" 😆

[@LuisEPGomes]

I think any position in the King's Guard is just the perfect place for a guy in a love affair with someone in the royal family. Renly and Loras, Arianne and Ser Arys, Alicent and Criston, Rhaenyra and Criston, Cersei and Jaime, Cersei and Osmund. Even the relationship between Dany, Jorah and Daario could be described as the same .

[@passingashuman]

Yep. Bethany bracken and Terrance toyne. It just bit them so badly in the shows blood and cheese narrative- like david pointed out. Instead of being bound and gagged watching? she was bound n gagged by criston Cole lmao..

[@fernandocorona5411]

Another reason there should only be a king perhaps? Lol

[@ungabunga6699]

Aemon dragonknight and sister

[@JB-xl2jc]

It's a well known trope in fact- Bodyguard Crush

[@Ray-yv7kn]

And then there's Ser Mandon Moore.

[@EmmaOfTheArbor]

Alicent reminds me of both my grandmothers. Neither wanted to be a mother, but they married men (because thats what you do in the 40's as catholics) and ended up with 3+ children each. Both were deeply religious but also deeply resentful and disconnected mothers. Luckily both of my parents turned out much better. But yeah Alicent feels very familiar.

[@victorpradha9946]

Alicent is perhaps the most tragic DIRECT victim of Otto Hightower's manipulative machinations. She had no real agency in her life and resented how Rhaenyra had a golden pass to do as she pleases and yet her father as King simply writes his own version of reality which becomes the official story of course. She fancied Cole and when Alicent learned of Rhaenyra's tryst with Cole, she was more than a bit irked. Alicent spared Cole's life so that she could "have" what Rhaenyra was given. So Cole became her one avenue and vehicle for personal indulgence, but of course the guilt and perhaps shame remains

[@sgcastle8389]

I like how Sir crispy Cole got mad at Rhaenyra for treating him like a sneaky link all that become Alicent's Wh*re

[@baelorbreakspeartargaryen993]

Hadn't thought about it, but Ally and the Cole Pole probably made sure there weren't any guards around, so they could "pray".

[@Gigipretty64]

So the Greens have The Hand, The Feet and The Tongue 😛

[@jonathan0225]

-1 green Head, sorry had to do it.

[@mischr13]

omg 💀

[@johnnygreenface]

​@@jonathan0225demonic 😭

[@faisalkamal4319]

-1 eye

[@Gandalfthefluff]

I love that you understand and appreciate the difference between book and show Blood and Cheese.

[@TallGrass44]

I love that two. He recognizes that they both have their place in the universe.

[@clayongunzelle9555]

Bro i have an aunt who when we were growing up she was hella snobby and acted like she was so perfect now when we are older we realize she's a home wrecker... Definitely reminds me of alicent

[@DavidLightbringer]

*nods slowly*

[@atfi100]

🥴🥴🥴🥴🥴 the stuck up ones are usually like that....

[@nebunezz_r]

I'd chalk the homewrecking behaviour of allicent as a byproduct of Otto machinations.

[@-Carlisle-]

somebody make David a Minecraft Hightower!

[@idontuploadanym0re]

there’s westeroscraft! last i checked, oldtown was still in progress, but it’s such a cool server and a really beautiful community effort

[@thalmoragent9344]

​@@idontuploadanym0re Wait, seriously? 😅 that's awesome

[@sommer8337]

I binge watched all of Season 1 before Season 2 began and I’m blown away by how amazing this show is. It’s beautiful, the actors are all incredible, the writing and directing is so good…. Yes, I’m gushing because I love it so much ha ha. I’m looking forward to watching this season with you Ser Lightbringer and the entire community you’ve built here - it’s going to be a hell of a journey! Edit: You and Rhaegar absolutely crushed the advertisement! Loved it!

[@DavidLightbringer]

haha thank you!

[@wayne47able]

All hail Ser Criston of House Cole. The Beater of Dameon, Virgin taker of Rhanerya, eater of the green queen... And hand of the King! I dont think theres a man in westeros that can top this resume!

[@ilenenoir85]

This is one of the funniest, smartest and most insightful videos I've watched as of late. Thank you for proving that discussing a character can go hand in hand with entertainment and doesn't have to involve controversies and toxicity. Karen Hightower for president!

[@DavidLightbringer]

thank you so much that's exactly what I'm going for :)

[@devoleno]

It would make for a cool stand alone episode to see the world from Helaena's perspective. She has dragon dreams and doesn't have anyone to help her decipher them. Could she even tell if what was happening, actually happening?

[@moongem4489]

Thank god for your commentary. It's so hard to find anything online about Alicent (at least in the fandom spaces I see) that have anything to say other than that she's either an angel who's done nothing wrong, or she's the devil incarnate, and anyone who likes her is a secret misogynist.

[@DavidLightbringer]

that's basically why I made this so that l you for your comment. it was pissing me off too

[@jessjess23brooks89]

And anybody who doesn't like her doesn't appreciate complex characters. Like... That's why we are all here lol. I feel like the larger fandom has become even more toxic than ever before.

[@DistritoColor]

I think all or most of GOT and HOTD characters are not good or bad, black or white, I think they're are presented as "grey" complex humans with contradictory reasons and motives and who are changing and evolving over time, which makes them interesting, realistic and more of an adult or mature story (as opposed to white and black characters of a classic fairy tale).

[@moonlaughs26]

Yes ❤

[@nebunezz_r]

Weird isn't it? I used to think that the normal human positions that the reader should have is "support all and reject Otto"

[@dabestestgoblin8495]

I'm definitely watching this one when I am high in my tower block later

[@captainziggy82]

felt that lol

[@konstantinospetrakos2536]

Never met anyone who makes such an effort for a fruit loops comercial! So funny.

[@DavidLightbringer]

hey that's what ya gotta do haha I do love doing reading Rhaegar skits if I'm honest

[@cyna5190]

I don't even blame Alicent for having an affair, even though I'm not exactly her fan - but it's just so hypocritical and disgusting of these two in particular. As one of the actors said, they really do sin in the shadows and judge you in the light.

[@sunerys8511]

Thanks for being such a nuanced voice in this unhinged fandom 💚🖤

[@AntoineVello]

"Behind closed doors which should be locked," Thank you David.

[@queerlybeloved257]

I watch a lot of video essays, but the commercials in yours are the only ones I dont skip 😁 They're so fun and delightful!!! Also love the way you talk about Alicent. Acknowledging all her human complexities... including the messy aspects 😅 I love her scenes

[@sommer8337]

As a “non book reader” for this series, I absolutely LOVED the Blood and Cheese scene. One of my children is Neurodivergent and the way Heleana’s actress portrays her is phenomenal. I loved the whole episode- but especially that entire Blood and Cheese journey. The horror and trauma and ughhhhhhhhh alll of it…. It was so horrific, agonizing, traumatizing, and SO DAMM GOOD. Yes, I love this show. In case I wasn’t clear ha ha

[@psychedelicyeti6053]

Exactly! I keep seeing people how she didn't "show enough emotion". I have to remind people about disassociation and freezing as a reaction.

[@jessjess23brooks89]

I have no problem with Phia's performance. That still of her horrified, shining eye is haunting. I just wish they had added a few elements of the original, but with their version of Haelena. I am happy the murder happened off screen though 😢

[@sommer8337]

@Mari23716 That was unnecessarily rude. I sometimes forget that the internet is inhabited with creatures such as you; thank you for the reminder.

[@moonlaughs26]

It was good but no emotional impact on my end because I feel like that was the first time they truly passed the kids. The thing about this show is that everyone claims to be sobbing over these deaths when the time skips make it impossible to truly connect to the characters.

[@WatashiMachineFullCycle]

If that rumoured party turns out to be real this cereal commercial is going to reach iconic levels of humour

[@DavidLightbringer]

trying to time travel through the fourth wall haha

[@Heressia0]

I am Team Black and tbh I never disliked Alicent cause she reminds me of me. I also had a controlling parent, I gave up most of my life to please them and it took me late into adulthood to stand up to them.

[@nebunezz_r]

Same. I'm on black and my only distaste with the greens so far are Otto who's so far up his ass he thinks he's above his duty as the king's Hand.

[@jaythebookfiend1541]

Still not over how 🔥 the new intro and outro are, and flashing the Hightower across the screen as “…towering sense of shame…” came through the speakers made my day. (Also still never over how 🔥 the sense of fun is ‘round here.) There’s something so very satisfying about watching someone be so deeply amused by her moralizing while still being mindful of her ‘human heart in conflict.’

[@DavidLightbringer]

hey thanks Jay!

[@HowAboutNo_426]

David; you're a madman- I spat my coffee when I saw that thumbnail. Happy Friday Mythfam!!

[@DavidLightbringer]

I had too much fun making this video to be honest

[@HowAboutNo_426]

As it was fun to watch! Cheers brother

[@treckerdirector7]

The thumbnail Alicent looks like a greenseer... And Cole is the 3 leg crow, i guess.

[@DavidLightbringer]

hehehehe

[@DavidLightbringer]

the one eyed ColePole

[@atamburlaine]

That took me a second.... c'monnnnnn.

[@jessjess23brooks89]

😂😂

[@ToastyMcGrath]

Alicent is definitely my favorite characterin HotD. She's honestly the most real person in the show.

[@moonlightauras1]

Right??? I feel like the people who hate her so loudly are a lot more like her than they are willing to admit. Just messy and filled with weird shame.

[@tacituskilgore875]

😂 I love her too, much better than the books verson.

[@adaezez8378]

@@moonlightauras1thats projection on your part lmao😂

[@danika9411]

​@@adaezez8378 No I think moonlight has a point. We are all big hypocrites. We want to do good, but often we don't react as well as we want in situations. We think we know better until we are in an emotionally messy situation and screw up as well. And then we realize that it was our inexperience, youth and ideals we took on from our families that we never questioned when we were young that were speaking. I'm in my mid 30s, so Alicents and Rhaenyras age. When I was in my early 20s I was idealistic. I still am, BUT I learned and am more realistic and understanding now. I think in the difference between our ideals and values and our actual behaviour lies our hypocrisy. Imo Alicent is a very realistic character. Sorry for my English. It's my second language.

[@adaezez8378]

@@danika9411 lets agree to disagree because i disagree

[@ml.9417]

Wow, thank you for your fair and nuanced take on Alicent! It’s very rare

[@WeaselSoup-su5yu]

David’s ad reads are the only ones I ever watch all the way through. They’re fun and never feel like a big interruption.

[@captainziggy82]

I really find it funny how people try to defend her actions, as if she herself doesn’t know it’s wrong lol that’s why she’s constantly praying, and trying to end the relationship

[@DavidLightbringer]

what are you talking about lol. I made that exact point in the video.

[@DavidLightbringer]

I didn't defend her actions, I called her a giant hypocrite working to expunge a sense of guilt that probably will never go away. I did however also point out, justifiably, the ways in which she was victimized as a child and the extreme lack of agency she came into the Game of Thrones with. it's all relevant, hopefully you can handle that

[@captainziggy82]

@@DavidLightbringer homie I was agreeing with your video lol great points

[@davisj7973]

wtf the sassy ass reply. good to know not to watch. "hope you can handle that" good grief this show sucks and so does the fanbase

[@danika9411]

She is a big hypocrite. I think she never had the normal development that teenagers have, where you question your parents and develop your own values. Otto was controlling and she married at 15 years old and was suddenly a mother. She only lived by others values. She even said that in episode 9 of season 1. She wanted whatever Otto impressed upon her. I think she is now doing what people normally do as teenagers and she is going to start develop her own value system, have a first messy love ect. But yes she is a hypocrite.

[@shay212]

Okay but Rhaegar stealing your cereal, took me right back to being a kid and watching the Cookie Crisp thief and his dog steal the cereal. Lol

[@mayasiferd223]

You are the only KZbinr I actually watch the ads for bc they are so funny. Got me thinkin about buying magic spoon 😂

[@DavidLightbringer]

i man it's good if you like cereal... I had basically stopped just because I felt dumb eating cereal as an adult when it's so full of crap so it's nice to be able to munch a bowl late at night, hits the spot

[@thing_under_the_stairs]

Were I not so broke I'd be all over that stuff - I love sweet cereal, but avoid it because it's made of so much sugar and general crap, but healthy sweet cereal? I want some!

[@lindenshepherd6085]

They’ve got it at Kroger now if you live in the US, and I’ve seen coupons for it pop up every so often!

[@redscorpion1090]

"Daemon from Wish" had me wheezing!

[@DavidLightbringer]

I know right that's why I had to put that in there

[@movieloverfan18]

Criston Cole cared about Rhaenyra. He sincerely wanted to marry her. She didn’t share his feelings, not as much , her destiny was more important. So he was angry. Criston doesn't feel that way about Alicent, so it doesn't matter as much to him.

[@DreyM3]

So interesting that these two women find some aspect of safety in this man who has committed some of the most violent acts we’ve seen so far on the show!! Always in front of Alicent too. Need to go back and rewatch s1 with Alicent/Crison relationship in mind

[@jezebulls]

Cole: 👅 🌮 Alicent: We need to stop Cole: I agree! Alicent: Ok, last time Cole: My jaw is tired. Alicent: Hawk Tuah 👅💦

[@bonnielorraine4145]

I genuinely enjoy your sponsor commercials. You laughing at your rhaegar yourself just makes me giggle

[@JacksToWin]

This episode did a great job of making team green more interesting. At the end of season one i think it was nearly impossible not to see the rhaenyra and jace as the good guys, and while that is still somewhat the case Aegon and Alicent are so captivating i could totally understand someone rooting for them despite their flaws. The team black moral highground also took an obvious hit this episode thanks to Daemon

[@TheArcanumJinx]

Look, I haven't watched the full video yet, but team black or team green aside, Alicent's hypocrisy be damned, I am HERE for the inevitable drama this is gonna cause omg 😂

[@DavidLightbringer]

that's a large part of the video yes

[@omarbey3868]

I love your videos. Too funny. Not locking a door that should definitely be locked sounds very freudian. Either Alicent or Ser Criston subconsciously want to get caught.

[@enyerlation6596]

Lol as soon as that scene popped up i was like ALRIGHT ALLICENT and felt happy for her too lmao.

[@moonlaughs26]

Same 😂 🎉

[@psychedelicyeti6053]

Well, looks like i will be binging your videos today!

[@DavidLightbringer]

right on,.thanks and you're welcome!

[@robstewartstewart98]

I KNOW RIGHT! The scene had me busting out laughing! The jarring smash cut so early in our return to Kings Landing really sells it. While a bunch of us knew about Cole and Alicent having a relationship this season, the jarring nature of “oh, the first we see of them this season confirms that” really sells it. And of course….the picture of Alicent that has joined the ranks of other GOT/HOTD memes. If, as Preston Jacobs said, the petition of Vaemond was “one of the best scenes Game of Thrones has ever produced”, then honestly, IMO….this was the funniest. HOTD is, so far, my favorite show of ASOIAF. Even more than the first 4 seasons of Game of Thrones

[@DavidLightbringer]

yeah I really liked the first episode. The unintentional comedy was off the charts

[@andrzejkopalnia]

New opening is pure vibe ❤

[@Cinnababy6]

You absolutely changed my opinion on the effects of blood and cheese! I was feeling slightly underwhelmed after watching the episode and kinda stayed within the box of "this isnt enough of the same trauma Helena experiences in the books" but in your explanation of Alicent's trauma with the whole situation and her role directly and indirectly really helped me see it in a different perspective and really appreciate the shows Blood and Cheese! amazing video as usual Ser Lightbringer!!🐉

[@kylestrong4231]

that Olivia cooke quote about the scene they cut is funny asf without really knowing her personality

[@MichieHoward]

It's Alicent's hypocrisy that gets me, can't find it within myself to care for her let alone root for her. Also Cristen Cole has serious anger/rage, mood issues. His protection is fucking precarious and goes with his moods.

[@thalmoragent9344]

So, maybe unpopular opinion, but bear with me, folks: I've wondered if it really is hypocritical or if it's an entirely separate lense it's made out to be. The whole episode was kinda odd to me, but I'm trying to set up some logic here. I wonder if the difference between Cole's mindset regarding the two royals he's "been with" was the manner in which they initiated it, as well as their status Like, Rhaenyra wanted to have Criston around while married, but Alicent had waited till she was a widow. That, and Rhaenyra had pressured him into sleeping with her. (Yes, he did give in and reciprocate, but if the genders were reversed, no one would consider that as consent). I assume with Alicent, the feeling was more mutual on both ends and not pushed (maybe awkward but probably just connected in a moment) In the start, it seems Criston views Alicent as the perfect Queen/Mother Archetype. She essentially saved his life and kept his secret with Rhaenyra under wraps, and she allowed him to basically continue being the perfect, honorable member of the Kingsguard he wanted to be. And, given he's already "soiled" his White-Cloak, it's not a huge jump to then hook up with the woman he idolizes, wants to keep safe, uphold, and... well, "please" as well. And now that Alicent is widowed, she isn't "sullied" for any future husband she may or may not marry when she was younger and still a maiden. As Queen Mother, whether she remarries is up for debate, may not ever happen. So, as long as she's prudent and on the low with it (similar to Tywin's whole thing) then yeah, I'd say it's not entirely hypocrisy given the circumstances and positions are not the same. I'm all for objections and a conversation, of course. I'm just giving my two cents on it. That said.... Queen Mother Alicent is still one of my favorite characters, so I've got her back. *"Aegon the King"!*

[@WeaselSoup-su5yu]

It’s also important to remember that while Criston looks ageless, hes had several years to mature. He’s done a crap job of it, but with Rhaenyra I think he deluded himself into thinking it was “true love”. He overestimated his power in the relationship. When she rejected his ridiculous offer to run away to Essos, she unknowingly emasculated him. That’s the real source of his vitriol imho. I don’t think he has any illusions of romantic love with Ali. He can feel like the big, strong protector with her because she’s far more vulnerable than Rhaenyra. But he is indebted to Ali. He owes her his life and position. This would be also viewed as problematic if the genders were reversed. The power imbalance is still there, it’s just easier for Criston to ignore it.

[@DavidCarradinesBelt]

Okay greencel, keep simping the rapist

[@tikolopez8884]

You are hilarious ! The way you delivered this had me cracking up.

[@TheHellyeahmen]

I never thought of Alicent as a Karen but that's a perfect description actually. Thank you David!

[@midnightcoffee6463]

Rhaenyra - sleeps with Criston Allicent - sleeps with Criston after Rhaenyra Man, this feels like Highschool gossip lol

[@WaywardWhiteWalker]

Going to New Mexico 'eh? I heard there was some catering ordered for some big bash at a writer's house. What could be happening?!?!?!?!?...?

[@foxmlder2379]

Ugh we need a spy in the catering company !!

[@rexbanner7256]

You do the best Rhaegar segways. They are hilarious. Get him to talk about his eventual trip to southoryos for the raptors!

[@haydenp236]

Thanks for all the effort and dedication you put into your videos the model is so cool. Really helps me unwind and enjoy the end of my day

[@williamsullivan3967]

I think this is the first video of yours that I’ve seen and I really enjoyed it. Thanks man!

[@jonahswim]

I’m too cheap for HBO now so thank you for taking one for the team

[@baelorbreakspeartargaryen993]

There are no ads like these. Only these.

[@redladie8528]

I love a gray character and hotd is full of them!

[@taytayqueen7024]

I love disastrous characters. My favourite niche 💕 give me all the hot messes and make it entertainment

[@Smoug]

so are you alos a Cersei fan? :P

[@OctopusWithNoFriends]

I'M HERE FOR THE ETYMOLOGICAL ENTOMOLOGICAL QUESTION ABOUT SPIDER LEGS!!! Yeah, spider legs are just called legs or appendages. 😅

[@DavidLightbringer]

I knew someone would have it!

[@kronoscamron7412]

Criston just existing offends me on a deep psychological level.😂

[@conniesuper9892]

The rat catchers are taking all of his SPIES...so Larys has to use humans now

[@meganinthemountains]

another unskippable contextual ad! love it

[@daniellemusella1594]

I do feel some sympathy for Alicent, due to the cycle of mental-emotional family abuse that passes from her father, to her, and mainly down to her two oldest sons. Said sympathy ends there, because her decisions in adulthood are still her own to make. She keeps blaming others for those actions, the main target of that mostly still being Rhaenyra. The person she should actually be this angry with is her father, but the terror of the consequences of displeasing Otto is too ingrained in her. As for Criston, I feel like he chooses to surrender that cloak and honor he once claimed to be so proud of, because he found a woman willing to accommodate his fantasy. Rhaenyra appealed to him at first, because he thought she was some kind of damsel in distress, as if from a romance novel, and he could both rescue her and meet his own hidden desires. When she turned him down, refusing to abandon her family and everything else she knew to be with him, he realized that she was far from the submissive flower he thought she was, and he's never forgiven her for that. Alicent, however, is very submissive, except for when she gives him orders in public, for the sake of appearances. She fits the mold of what he thinks a proper woman should be. Again, I do feel bad for what Alicent went through in her youth, but I have zero compassion, whatsoever, for Criston Cole. I've met and heard about too many men, who are just like him. (6/21/2024)

[@bloodyneptune]

Im team Aegon. Im on board with whatever he does as long as its Tom Glynn Carney doing it, hes _so_ much fun to watch.

[@DavidLightbringer]

he really is

[@jazwhoaskedforthis]

Honestly, Alicent tried to live by the rules all her life while everyone around her acted like they didn’t see Rhaenyra breaking all of them. She only has old melting Vizserys as a partner and it gets her kids that her king ignored while Rhaenyra grows more distant, and her dad works to manipulate her entire life. Frankly I can’t blame her for deciding the rules can get bent. I don’t like the way she covered for Aegon naturally, though.

[@Jen7867]

Well said, and I agree! I know a lot of people can't stand her because of her and Criston's deep hypocrisy, and I get that. But also, it's not as if she is entirely unsympathetic: I think it is easy to have empathy for the strict and repressive situation that she grew up in. (And I don't just mean sexual repression - She was consistently discouraged to develop and express her own voice). Anyone who grew up in a religious atmosphere can probably easily identify her "church lady" disposition, and see that inner struggle she is going through. Part of her wants to live up to all of those high ideals, and whenever she can't, she experiences shame and self-hatred. Yet another part of her really wants to allow herself to experience some self-agency, and allow herself to have occasional moments of joy in her life. She is very complex, quite contradictory, and very realistic!

[@mischr13]

Alicent is like the typical conservative boomer going "well **I** was abused in such-and-such way, so EVERY kid should be abused like that. It develops character."

[@Havivamauri]

Rhaenyra constantly got shii for her behavior(her father threatened to remove her claim to the throne) she just stood up for herself and said screw the patriarchy. As far as sleeping around her husband was homosexual like what did you want her to do? Stay a virgin and risk her heirship by being declared barren? She wanted Cristin he wanted her to abandon her father and the legacy. She loved strong having multiple children throughout the years and he ended up deceased. Daemon manipulated a child using her desire to choose her life choices and created a toxic love tie. Alicent was jealous because rhy was strong enough to choose what she was to scare too freedom and even rhy had to face consequences. What that saying “wanting all the honey but none the beestings is the folly of man” Alicent is a hypocrite. Now that she has power she’s doing the exact thing rhy fought to do when she was younger be free of man’s control.

[@sterlingorganicfarm421]

This was your best produced video yet!

[@RizztrainingOrder]

“I had a commemorative digital 3d Hightower commissioned for my FAV green queen/dowager queen Alicent! But I’m def not biased nor am I team green!” D.L.

[@jancecharlesaustin3733]

Reading Raegar is the man. Love the content, man

[@DistritoColor]

Thank you for doing also some shorter episode analysis videos, I enjoyed them last season and I'm here for this one's.

[@Henbot]

It probably the subtext that the two of them were in love with each other, both slept with Cole who clearly proxy bridge between their desires for each other and wanting for intimacy but the structure denied it. It clear they wanted each other but got repressed so hard they end up in conflict with each other instead of loving each other

[@wolfsmaid6815]

ummm no, just no. That is not the Subtext at all.

[@Henbot]

@@wolfsmaid6815 Ok, that’s your opinion as is my comment- so what’s the subtext for you? For me it reminds of repressed sexuality of lgbtq people that then leads them to inflicting harm on others of community because you are ashamed of your sexuality. For me it’s all over the dynamics between the two.

[@Whateverwhocares22]

Well sir, pretty damn fine analysis you have provided here

[@krystinaxxlea]

"Either one of those things cousl lead to a bit of murder" 😂😂

[@pterodactylpie8825]

So happy to have found your channel! Can’t wait to watch your thoughts as the season goes on

[@konstantinospetrakos2536]

Thanks David!

[@mandy_torpedoes931]

I find it humorous that Otto Hightower is the weird roommate from knotting hill

[@melissak8419]

I enjoy Alicent as a character, as she is similar as in position of Cersei, being the resident Queen losing her power. Now she becomes Dowager Queen. But she is no Evil Queen like Cersei Lannister was. I am going to enjoy watching her spiral into madness as she blames herself for the events that are about to happen in the Dance of Dragons. You can just see the look on her face as no one listens to her and she has done her righteous duty throughout so far, while Rhaenyra breaks all the rules and gets away with them. You know Alicent and Sir Criston Cole have been bashing Rhaenyra the whole time as foreplay to what they are doing now. Larys is going to get jealous and cause some trouble in their bizarre love triangle. Now she is going to blame herself for her Grandchild's Jaeharys Death.

[@AlohaMaesterHand]

LOL, the Kole Pole could have at least wiped his face off with that soiled white cloak before they went back to the small council 🤣