Tom Cullen, known for his role in "Downton Abbey," has joined the cast of HBO's "House of the Dragon" as Ser Luthor Largent, a new character introduced in Season 3, Episode 2. Ser Luthor Largent is a significant figure from George R.R. Martin's "Fire & Blood," the novel on which the series is based, and plays a crucial role during the Targaryen civil war known as the Dance of the Dragons.
In the recent episode, Ser Luthor Largent, a member of the City Watch, initially appears to be loyal to the Hightower faction. However, he quickly declares his allegiance to Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen upon recognizing his old friend, Prince Daemon Targaryen. This allegiance shift is a pivotal moment, demonstrating the shifting loyalties within King's Landing as the conflict escalates.
Ser Luthor's history with Daemon dates back to Daemon's time as the head of the City Watch, an organization he transformed and gave its iconic gold cloaks. The "Fire & Blood" lore describes Ser Luthor Largent as a commanding presence, reportedly close to seven feet tall, who allegedly killed a warhorse with a single punch. He is also associated with several war crimes in the books, suggesting a ruthless capability.
Cullen, a 40-year-old Welsh actor, is recognized for his roles in "Knightfall" and "Becoming Elizabeth," but gained wider recognition for portraying Lord Gillingham, a suitor to Lady Mary Crawley in "Downton Abbey." His casting in "House of the Dragon" brings a familiar face to the series, albeit in a character with a much darker historical arc.
According to "Fire & Blood," Ser Luthor Largent is slated to become one of Daemon and Rhaenyra's most trusted lieutenants, willing to carry out difficult tasks for their cause, known as "Team Black." The book also details his eventual demise, where he is defeated by an enraged mob of commoners rebelling against Rhaenyra. The show has already diverged from the book by altering the fate of Ser Gwayne Hightower, who in "Fire & Blood" served as Ser Luthor's second-in-command before being killed by Ser Luthor during the sacking of King's Landing.
New episodes of "House of the Dragon" are released on Sundays at 9 PM ET on HBO and HBO Max.