The latest episode of House of the Dragon has left fans outraged as Alicent Hightower is subjected to yet another act of exploitation and assault.
Alicent, played by Olivia Cooke, has been a victim of manipulation and abuse since the start of the show. Her father, Otto Hightower, manipulated her into seducing King Viserys when she was just a teenager, leading to a marriage that saw her enduring years of abuse at the hands of her husband.
Following Viserys' death, Alicent began a romantic relationship with Criston Cole, but her exploitation continues in season three. In episode one, she allows her son Aemond to kiss her on the lips, despite clearly being uncomfortable with the situation.
The latest episode sees Alicent attacked by Lord Jasper, but is saved by Grand Maester Orwyle and guards. However, the scene has sparked an uproar among viewers, with many saying that it served no purpose other than to show her being assaulted again.
Viewers took to social media to express their outrage, with one user saying, "Literally no reason for the Alicent Jasper SA [sexual assault] scene. Really disappointed in Ryan and Sara." Another user added, "Alicent SA scene made me sick. I genuinely have no words at how sad and sick I feel. It didn't even serve a purpose."
Olivia Cooke, who plays Alicent, has spoken out about the show's handling of her character's storyline. In an interview, she said, "Sometimes I'm reading these scripts, and I'm like, 'What has Ryan and Sara got for me this season?!'" She also expressed her discomfort with the show's portrayal of her character's abuse, saying, "It's sort of the humiliation of Alicent and Olivia Cooke by default, this show. The feet wasn't great. And then there's many more in season 3."
The show's portrayal of abuse and assault has sparked a wider conversation about the representation of women in media. Fans are calling for more nuanced and respectful portrayals of women, and for the show to prioritize Alicent's agency and safety.
House of the Dragon is available to watch on HBO Max, Sky Atlantic, and NOW, with new episodes released on Mondays.
