Robert Baratheon

Robert Baratheon is a major character in Game of Thrones. He is played by Mark Addy and appears in the first episode of the series.

Robert Baratheon is the head of House Baratheon and is also the current King of the Seven Kingdoms. He is married to Cersei Lannister, with whom he has three children: Joffrey, Myrcella and Tommen. He has two younger brothers, Stannis and Renly.

Robert became king after his betrothed, Lyanna Stark, was kidnapped by Prince Rhaegar Targaryen. This sparked a massive uprising against King Aerys II Targaryen, the Mad King, led by Robert, his friend Eddard Stark and their mentor, Jon Arryn. Aerys and Rhaegar were both killed during this conflict. Robert claimed the throne because of his distant blood-relationship to House Targaryen. He has ruled ever since the end of the civil war. Due to Lyanna's death, Robert married Cersei of House Lannister in thanks for her father joining his cause late in the conflict and delivering the capital of King's Landing to him.

In the books
In the Song of Ice and Fire novels, Robert is in his mid-thirties when the events of the books begin. He is jovial, and fun-loving, fond of battle, women and drink. As a young man Robert was a formidable warrior, noted for his chivalry, sense of honour and immense charisma. He won several loyal Targaryen bannermen to his cause through strength of personality alone. However, after becoming king Robert let himself go somewhat, becoming fat, soft and indolent, though still capable of great generosity to his friends. Robert has also become more bitter following Lyanna's death and a somewhat unhappy marriage, despite their multiple children.