“HE MAY BE THE MOST DANGEROUS MAN IN WESTEROS… 😱” — James Norton Reveals The Dark Truth Behind Ormund Hightower’s Rise In ‘House Of The Dragon’ And Why Fans Should Fear What Comes Next
The villain nobody saw coming is finally revealing his true face…
Ormund Hightower entered House of the Dragon as a powerful lord, but James Norton believes there is something far more terrifying hiding beneath his calm and controlled exterior.
In a revealing interview, Norton opened up about playing one of the show’s newest villains, explaining that Ormund is not dangerous because he seeks attention — he is dangerous because he knows how to manipulate, control, and wait for the perfect moment to strike.
Behind the respected Hightower name is a man filled with rage, ambition, and an extreme belief that his family’s cause is the only one that matters.
The Mask Of Control Begins To Crack
One of Ormund’s most unforgettable moments comes when viewers finally see what happens when his carefully controlled emotions explode.
Norton explained that the intense scene was physically and emotionally exhausting, as Ormund’s anger reveals the fury hidden beneath his polished appearance.
For the first time, fans witness the force that makes others around him fear him — including Daeron Targaryen, the young prince he helped raise.
A Complicated Bond With Daeron
Perhaps the most surprising part of Ormund’s character is his relationship with Daeron.
Norton described their connection as deeply complicated — a mixture of affection, loyalty, and something far more troubling.
While Daeron appears to understand Ormund better than anyone, their bond carries a darker side. The young prince has grown up around Ormund’s temper and power, creating a relationship that feels both protective and painful.
His Hatred Of Dragons Goes Deeper Than Politics
Unlike many characters fighting for power, Ormund’s hatred is not only about the Iron Throne.
Norton revealed that Ormund sees dragons and their riders as dangerous forces that must be removed, showing a much darker and more extreme side of his beliefs.
To him, the Targaryens represent everything he wants to destroy — making his conflict with them far more personal than a simple battle for power.
A Storm Is Coming For Westeros
With Ormund preparing for greater conflict and refusing to abandon the Hightower cause, James Norton hints that the coming battles will push the character even further.
A powerful house. A ruthless ambition. And a villain whose true darkness is only beginning to emerge.
