HBO Just Found Its Tyrion Replacement With This 'A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms' Character

Editor's Note: The following contains spoilers for A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms Episode 1.Over the three series, fans have gotten a good look at Westeros' nobility, and most reaffirm the group's notorious reputation as conniving and arrogant, but every so often, there is a genuinely friendly exception to that rule. In Game of Thrones, that was Tyrion Lannister (Peter Dinklage), who, despite his bad habits, became a likable figure among the Westerosi ruling class because of his humor, kindness, and intelligence. Among his peers, Tyrion's reputation wasn't great, and some of what was said about him was even true, but that didn't stop him from being a fan-favorite hero, which is something only a handful of characters achieved.

A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms seems to be taking inspiration from Tyrion for one character in particular. While the prequel features an entirely different generation of lords, the show has introduced a Tyrion replacement in Lyonel Baratheon (Daniel Ings), though they hold no familial connection. On the surface, the bold and popular Lyonel may seem like an odd choice to replace Game of Thrones' clever societal outcast, but the two share a similar purpose and give the audience the same reason to love them. Lyonel's humor and kindness make him the version of Tyrion that Dunk (Peter Claffey) needs in the prequel series.

How Is 'A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms' Lyonel Like Tyrion?

Lyonel is related to Robert Baratheon (Mark Addy) from Game of Thrones, but in many ways, the show makes him more akin to Tyrion. While they do not share physical traits, Lyonel has the same easy nature as Tyrion and an affinity for drinking. It's no mystery how he earned the name the Laughing Storm. The character is introduced as he hosts a party to celebrate the upcoming tourney, dancing in front of the crowd and generally having a good time. In the early seasons, Tyrion had the same focus in life, spending his time whoring and having a good time, though his disposition wasn't the same as Lyonel's. However, their greatest similarity is the role they play as they take a central hero under their wing.

Upon their meeting at the beginning of the series, Tyrion quickly bonds with Jon Snow (Kit Harington) over their mutual role as the family outcast. He advises Jon, showing him kindness that so few are willing to offer because of his illegitimate birth. And he continues in that way, consistently defying his father and sister and treating Sansa (Sophie Turner) with sympathy and gentleness. It is this aspect that Tyrion and Lyonel really share. Just as Tyrion has a soft spot for "cripples, bastards, and broken things," Lyonel takes a liking to Dunk because of his differences. Lyonel takes Dunk under his wing, impressed by the hedge knight's honesty, and they waste no time in becoming unlikely friends. Though A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms is only on its first episode, Lyonel's good humor and genuine nature shine through, making him the prequel's lovable counterpart to Tyrion.

'A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms' Doesn't Make Lyonel Exactly Like Tyrion

Despite their likable personalities and kindness toward a main character, Tyrion and Lyonel are drastically different as people. Tyrion is an intellectual who is underestimated because of his stature. While he isn't much for knightly activities, his intelligence serves him well throughout the series. But Lyonel doesn't have the same struggle. He is the able-bodied fighter that lords are expected to be. Not only is he riding in the tourney, but he loves the event and is confident in his chances. Lyonel may be unique, but he isn't the outcast that Tyrion is.

Despite this significant difference, Lyonel still stands out among members of the great houses, particularly when it comes to his interest in Dunk. He is impressed by Dunk because the lowly hedge knight doesn't attempt to flatter him, something most men of his rank might expect from someone like Dunk. This emphasizes Lyonel's chaotic and unpredictable energy, which makes him a character fans are naturally drawn to. The connection between Lyonel and Tyrion doesn't rely on lineage, but it is clear that they fill similar roles in their respective series. It's no wonder that A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms fans already love Lyonel Baratheon.

A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms is streaming on HBO Max with new episodes on Sundays.