House of the Dragon's Season 3, Episode 6 saw the long-awaited demise of Ser Criston Cole, a character frequently criticized for his actions throughout the series. The knight's death occurred in the opening moments of the episode, during a battle that has become known as the Butcher's Ball. This event aligns closely with his portrayal in George R.R. Martin's novel Fire & Blood, though the television adaptation made slight alterations to who delivered the fatal blow.
In the source material, Red Robb Rivers and his archers are credited with killing Cole. However, the show depicted Lady Alysanne Blackwood, wife of Lord Cregan Stark, as the one responsible, with three arrows ending his life. Cole's end was ignominious, occurring while he still clutched Queen Alicent's handkerchief, a stark contrast to the glorious battlefield reputation he evidently craved. He was denied the songs of valor he had hoped would mark his passing.
Ser Criston Cole's character arc was defined by a series of poor decisions and a hypocritical disposition. He broke his vows as a Kingsguard member by becoming romantically involved with Rhaenyra, a transgression that ultimately led him to defect to the Greens. His animosity extended to Rhaenyra's children, whom he treated with unnecessary cruelty during training sessions. Despite Queen Alicent's efforts to conceal his earlier transgression, Cole later entered into a relationship with her, further complicating his loyalties and actions.
His self-awareness regarding his moral failings was evident in later seasons, as he admitted to experiencing "grief after grief" due to his desires. Cole's actions had far-reaching consequences, contributing to the deaths of others, including the tragic duel between the twin Kingsguard brothers, Ser Arryk and Ser Erryk Cargyll, a situation Cole's own actions indirectly set in motion. Prior to his death, he also committed acts of violence, such as slaying Lord Beesbury and Lord Darklyn in fits of rage, and infamously beating Ser Joffrey Lonmouth to death at Rhaenyra's wedding feast. The cumulative impact of his choices resulted in numerous battlefield deaths and raids for which he bore direct responsibility.
Actor Fabien Frankel's portrayal of Ser Criston Cole was noted for making the character one that many viewers loved to hate, eliciting strong reactions due to his consistent self-serving actions and petty motivations. While the world of House of the Dragon features many morally ambiguous and outright villainous characters, Cole's narrative was often driven by his personal grievances and insecurities, leading to actions that negatively impacted numerous individuals and the broader conflict of the Dance of the Dragons.