The internet has long speculated about a surprising pop culture connection within the fantasy genre. Fans of the hit series House of the Dragon have repeatedly noted striking visual similarities between two very different characters. These comparisons recently reached the cast members themselves, sparking a memorable and candid behind-the-scenes exchange.

Actress Olivia Cooke, who portrays the complex Queen Alicent Hightower, finally addressed the ongoing joke. The viral theory suggests that her regal character heavily resembles Princess Fiona from the animated blockbuster Shrek. Both characters prominently feature vibrant red hair and frequently wear signature green gowns.

The humorous observation was recently brought directly to Cooke during a promotional interview. She was joined by her co-star Fabien Frankel, who plays the stoic Ser Criston Cole on the popular HBO series. Frankel did not hesitate to share his honest thoughts on the unexpected visual parallel.

He openly admitted to the interviewer that he always thinks Alicent looks exactly like the animated princess. Cooke offered a deadpan response, simply saying thanks in a noticeably unamused tone. Frankel immediately recognized the need to clarify his bold statement to avoid any real offense.

He quickly explained that he absolutely meant the comparison as a genuine compliment. Frankel pointed out the specific color scheme that connects the two distinct characters. He specifically highlighted the iconic green dress worn by Cooke in several key scenes throughout the show's run.

Cooke readily agreed with his assessment regarding their matching wardrobe choices. She also confirmed that their shared red hair is an undeniable link between them. The lighthearted moment provided a brief break from the typically dark and intense narrative of the series.

Frankel then decided to turn the playful joke around on his co-star. He asked Cooke who she believed would fill the shoes of Shrek in their universe. Without any hesitation, Cooke immediately pointed the finger directly back at Frankel.

This brief moment of levity stands in stark contrast to the current storyline. The characters of Alicent and Criston are currently positioned on violently opposite sides of a massive civil war. Their once-secret romantic affair has completely deteriorated into a deeply fractured political alliance.

In the latest season, their paths have violently diverged amid the escalating Targaryen conflict. Alicent is secretly attempting to broker peace and help Rhaenyra Targaryen reclaim the heavily fortified capital city. Meanwhile, Criston is actively marching his forces toward Harrenhal to provide military support.

Alicent’s covert mission ultimately ends in an absolute and devastating disaster. She is captured by enemy forces and brought directly before Rhaenyra. This tense reunion occurs shortly after Rhaenyra orders the execution of Alicent’s father, Otto Hightower.

Cooke explained that this grim discovery represents the ultimate betrayal for her character. Alicent had been completely unaware of her father’s fate after being replaced as the Hand of the King. The sudden realization that he was beheaded completely shatters her remaining hope for a peaceful resolution.

The character now realizes she has simply been used as a political pawn once again. This brutal awakening fundamentally shifts her motivations moving forward in the unfolding narrative. Viewers can expect Alicent to adopt a much more ruthless approach in upcoming episodes.

House of the Dragon continues to air new episodes weekly on the HBO streaming platform. The prequel series remains one of the most watched fantasy television shows currently in production.