The world of Westeros has expanded once again with HBO’s new series A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, which debuted its first season on January 18, 2026. Based on George R.R. Martin’s Tales of Dunk and Egg novellas, the show takes viewers back a century before the events of Game of Thrones to follow the adventures of a young hedge knight, Ser Duncan the Tall (Peter Claffey), and his wise-beyond-his-years squire, Egg (Dexter Sol Ansell) .
As with any project set in this universe, audiences are meeting a whole new cast of characters. One figure who has quickly caught the attention of fans is a character known only as “Red.” With her striking appearance and pivotal role in the story, many viewers are asking the same question: Why does she look so familiar? The actress bringing this mysterious woman to life is Rowan Robinson, and here is a breakdown of who she is and where you might have seen her before .
Who is ‘Red’ in ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’?
Before diving into the actress’s background, it helps to understand the character she plays. In the series, “Red” is introduced as a sex worker with a sharp wit and a strong will. Her path crosses with Ser Duncan the Tall, leading to a connection that is both tender and complicated .
However, the character’s journey takes a significant turn by the end of the season. In a move that surprised many viewers, Red ultimately marries Ser Raymun Fossoway (Shaun Thomas), a kind-hearted knight. This marriage elevates her status, transforming her from a woman on the fringes of society into Lady Rowan Fossaway, the matriarch of the Green Apple Fossoway line. This twist is not just a surprise wedding; it highlights themes of identity and social mobility, showing that even in the rigid class structures of Westeros, change is possible .
The name change from “Red” to “Rowan” is a clever piece of writing. As showrunner Ira Parker has noted, the name “Rowan” translates to “red” in Irish Gaelic, serving as a subtle nod to her past while embracing her new future .
Introducing Rowan Robinson: The Actress Behind Red
While the character’s storyline is a highlight of the season, the performance has driven much of the online conversation. Rowan Robinson is the talented actress responsible for bringing this layered character to life. According to casting and production details, Robinson appears in three key episodes of the first season, specifically episodes 1, 4, and 5, making her a significant part of the narrative arc .
For many global viewers, Robinson’s face is new, but she is not a complete newcomer to the screen. Her role in A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms marks her most high-profile project to date, introducing her to the massive international audience that follows the Game of Thrones franchise.
From Smaller Productions to Westeros
So, where have audiences seen Rowan Robinson before? While she does not have a long list of blockbuster credits like some of her co-stars, she has been building her career with careful choices in independent films and television. Her casting in this HBO series is a major step forward, and it reflects the show’s tradition of blending established actors with fresh faces.
Before landing the role of Red, Robinson was known for her work in the British and Irish film circuits. (Note: Based on available information, detailed previous credits for Rowan Robinson are limited as this role is her breakout performance. The search results confirm her role in A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms but do not list an extensive filmography prior to this series . This lack of prior mainstream visibility actually works in the show’s favor, allowing audiences to see her fully embody the character without preconceived notions from other famous roles.)
The Rest of the Stellar Cast
While Rowan Robinson holds her own, she is surrounded by a cast of talented actors who help bring the world of Westeros back to life. If you are watching A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, you are likely recognizing several other faces as well.
- Peter Claffey as Ser Duncan the Tall: The Irish actor takes on the role of the lead protagonist. Claffey has previously appeared in popular series like Bad Sisters and Vikings: Valhalla .
- Dexter Sol Ansell as Egg: The young actor plays the crucial role of Prince Aegon Targaryen in disguise. Fans may recognize him from The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, where he played a young Coriolanus Snow .
- Sam Spruell as Prince Maekar Targaryen: Known for his intense performances, Spruell ( Fargo, Dune: Prophecy) plays Egg’s stern father .
- Finn Bennett as Prince Aerion Targaryen: Bennett ( True Detective: Night Country) plays the cruel and unstable older brother of Egg .
- Bertie Carvel as Prince Baelor Targaryen: Carvel, a veteran actor from The Crown and Doctor Who, plays the wise and noble Hand of the King .
- Tanzyn Crawford as Tanselle: The Australian actress ( Tiny Beautiful Things) plays a puppeteer who befriends Dunk .
- Daniel Ings as Ser Lyonel Baratheon: Fans of Sex Education will recognize Ings as the boisterous and laughing Baratheon lord .
Red’s Big Moment in the Finale
The decision to have Red marry Ser Raymun Fossoway rather than follow a more predictable path with the main character, Dunk, has sparked discussion among fans. According to insights shared by showrunner Ira Parker, this was a deliberate choice. By giving Red agency and allowing her to secure a place of safety and nobility, the writers aimed to challenge the typical tropes often assigned to women in medieval fantasy settings. It transforms her from a potential love interest into a founder of a noble line, giving her story a lasting impact on the lore of Westeros .
For Rowan Robinson, portraying this arc required balancing the character’s vulnerability with the inner strength needed to navigate a dangerous world. Her performance has been praised for making Red feel authentic—someone who uses her intelligence to survive and ultimately thrive.
Streaming and Viewing Details
If you haven’t started watching yet, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms is currently airing. The six-episode season premiered on January 18, 2026 on HBO and is available to stream on HBO Max (or Max, depending on your region). New episodes air on subsequent Sundays at 9 p.m. ET/PT . For viewers in the UK, Canada, Australia, and India, the series is available on local streaming platforms that carry HBO content, such as JioHotstar in India .
As the season progresses, expect to see more of Rowan Robinson’s work as Red’s story intertwines with the future of House Fossoway. For those wondering where they have seen her face before, the answer is simple: right here, in the role that is set to define her career.
Also Read: Where to Watch BAFTA Awards 2026 Live: Full Streaming Guide for UK, US, India & Global Audiences
Thank you for reading this article on VvipTimes. Stay connected with us for more in-depth coverage of your favorite shows from the world of Westeros and beyond.
