- This article is about the character before the Riot of King's Landing. For the title see High Septon (Title) for other High Septon characters see High Septon (Character).
The High Septon is a character in the second season. He is played by David Verrey and only appears in "The Old Gods and the New." High Septon is the title given to the head of the Faith of the Seven, the dominant religion of the Seven Kingdoms. It is a position of supreme authority within the church, but the holder has little power outside of the religion. This High Septon was killed in the riots of King's Landing. Simon Fisher-Becker was originally set to play him, but was replaced by David Verrey.
Biography
Season 2
The High Septon appears along with the Royal family in the docks as Princess Myrcella Baratheon is shipped to Dorne. The High Septon offers prayers for Myrcella's future well-being in the name of the the Seven. On their way back to the Red Keep from the docks, the tensions of the suffering and starving smallfolk of King's Landing finally break, resulting in a massive riot that sweeps through the city. The High Septon is captured by an angry mob and is torn to pieces as one of his attackers holds up one of his arms.[1]
Following his death, a new High Septon is chosen.[2]
Appearances
Template:Season Two Appearances
In the books
In the A Song of Ice and Fire books, the High Septon is an obese man who dresses opulently. As Tyrion quips, "starving men take a dim view of priests too fat to walk".
When a new High Septon assumes office, he renounces his given name and ever after becomes known simply as "the High Septon", so the name of this particular High Septon is never revealed. For the sake of differentiating him from previous High Septons, he is usually referred to simply as "The Fat One".
In the books, the High Septon was also present at the execution of Ned Stark and was offended by it. While the fat High Septon was very corrupt, even he was outraged that Joffrey would have Ned Stark executed on the very steps of the Great Sept of Baelor, violating holy ground. His lines were given to Grand Maester Pycelle in the TV show.
See also
- The High Septon at A Wiki of Ice and Fire (major spoilers from the book).