A Look at Mat Cauthon’s Character in Season 3 of The Wheel of Time

On February 5, for WOT Wednesday, He Who Tweets with the Dawn shared an in-world character-focused video about Mat. In the short, about a minute-long, feature, Dónal Finn, in his new costume, delivers his lines in a quintessential Mat fashion, rogueish and flirty. Viewers get some insight into Mat’s season 3 character.

The video starts with Mat, in a stone-walled room speaking directly to the camera, as if the viewer is an admirer. He confirms his status as Hornblower, narrating over clips of Mat in Falme from season 2. Then we begin to see clips of Mat in what looks to be Tar Valon. In some shots, we see a Mat we know and love. He is examining, and knocking over, swords in what seems to be the Tower training grounds. You can see a guard in red and white behind him; could this be a hint of a fight with a pair of Andoran brothers? We also see Bain and Chiad point spears at Mat’s throat, while unveiled. Maybe this means we will see Maiden’s Kiss?

There are some new and surprising moments as well. We see Mat, in public, showing off the Horn of Valere, even posing for a sketch! Less surprising, we see Mat lounging in a lavish room while a woman in white, presumably a Novice, plays with the Horn of Valere. Both he and the novice turn to look at the camera; I wonder who may be joining them in the room. And one moment makes our hearts warm. Mat clinks mugs with two other drinkers, smiling. Until proven otherwise, we will hope this is a scene of Rand, Mat, and Perrin sharing a moment of joy before their paths diverge.

You can watch the full video on Twitter.

Transcript

Well, well, well, it was only a matter of time wasn’t it?

Well, go on then. Don’t be nervous. No need to play coy.

Yes, the rumors are true. I am indeed the Hornblower.

I did, in fact, blow the legendary Horn of Valere at Falme, turning the tide of the battle.

Oh, you want to thank me? Well, that’s very kind. It’s completely unnecessary of you.

Oh, but you insist. A gesture of gratitude. If I must.

Well, it’s true that my station in life has changed but at the end of the day, I’m a simple man of simple pleasures.

Comfy bed, plenty of ale, cheeky game of dice, and the odds are in my favor.

Season 3 airs on March 13, 2025.