Robert Baratheon

King Robert Baratheon is a member of House Baratheon, as well as King of the Iron Throne and the current ruler of Westeros.

Background
Robert grew up as Jon Arryn's ward and became close friends with Eddard Stark, eventually becoming engaged to his sister Lyanna. However, when Prince Rhaegar abducts Lyanna at the tourney of Harrenhal, Robert rebels against House Targaryen and eventually usurps the Mad King as ruler of Westeros, although Lyanna dies during the rebellion. Robert reluctantly marries Cersei Lannister at Jon Arryn's behest and has four children with her, although he becomes a lustful drunkard who lies with many other women and fathers numerous bastards from all seven kingdoms.

"A Game of Thrones" (298)
Robert's wife Cersei eventually dies under suspicious circumstances. Jon Arryn, the Hand of the King, sends a letter to Eddard Stark claiming that Robert and his Small Council had Cersei assassinated. Shortly after receiving Jon's letter, Eddard discovers that Jon himself has mysteriously died. Robert makes Myranda Royce his new Queen, and makes Eddard his new Hand.