Barristan Selmy is a recurring characters in season one up to season five of Game of Thrones. This prominent character is played by the guest star Ian McElhiney who debuts in the ‘Lord Snow’. Ser Barristan is a knight viewed by many as one of the best swordsmen in the entire Seven Kingdoms. Due to this remarkable reputation, he is known as Barristan the Bold. He was part of the Kingsguard with respect and distinction for close to forty years, prior to his abrupt dismissal by King Joffrey. Feeling insulted and offended by the dismissal he traverses the Narrow Sea to Astapor where he seeks to find Daenerys Targaryen. He thereafter joins Daenerys’ crew serving as an advisor after rescuing her from an assassination attempt.
Barristan Selmy was the Lord Commander of the Kingsguard, the elite bodyguard of the King of the Andals and the First Men. He is also reputed to be the only member of the House Selmy which is a minor house that serves House Baratheon. He is praised as a highly skilled warrior throughout his life even in his old age, which has an honor and chivalry that can never be compared to any other one. He was a critical part of Aerys II Targaryen’s Kingsguard. During this time, he participated in the battle against the Kingswood Brotherhood and managed to slay Simon Toyne, their leader. This act earned him admirations from all corners, notably from Jaime Lannister, aged 16 at that time.
Barristan was highly trustworthy and this was demonstrated when he failed to compromise his loyalty to the House Targaryen in the course of Robert’s Rebellion. He faithfully stuck by the vows he previously swore while joining the Kingsguard. As a result of this feature of his, Barristan was held in high esteem both by Robert Baratheon and Ned Stark. After being handed over the throne, Robert pardoned Barristan and made him the Lord Commander of the Kingsguard.
Ser Barristan is seen in many seasons of the whole series, having varied roles, all which combine to build the plot. In season one for instance, Barristan, Robert Baratheon the king and Ser Jaime Lannister share stories of war in the Red Keep. Barristan recollects old memories with the striking one being his first kill whose name he could not remember. The other two companions also share their previous experiences both in war and politics. In season three up to five, the roles vary but what is most outstanding is the prowess and skills of Barristan Selmy as a soldier. Barristan Selmy and Jorah Mormont have clash in their roles as advisors to Daenerys.