Iron Bull

A Qunari spy and mercenary leader who balances duty with personal bonds.

Iron Bull is a fictional Qunari companion in BioWare's 2014 video game Dragon Age: Inquisition. Voiced by Freddie Prinze Jr., he leads the mercenary company known as the Bull's Chargers while secretly serving as a spy for the Ben'Hassrath, the secret police of the Qunari government. As a member of the metallic-skinned Qunari race from northern Thedas, he operates under the nickname 'Iron Bull' because his people utilize job titles rather than personal names; among his own, he is known as Hissrad, meaning 'liar.' He joins the Inquisition as a double agent, openly admitting his duplicity to the Herald of Andraste during their initial meeting. His character design features a battle-scarred body, leather armor, and a distinctive eye patch covering one eye.

Quick Facts

Series: Dragon Age
First: Dragon Age: Inquisition (2014)
Voice: Freddie Prinze Jr.
Also known as: Hissrad
Race: Qunari
Home: Par Vollen

Lore & Background

The Iron Bull serves as the Ben'Hassrath's representative within the Inquisition after gaining renown as the Herald of Andraste. Originally a hunter of spies, rebels, and deserters, he was transferred to Orlais to gather intelligence on southern Thedas. While maintaining his duties to the Qunari government, he has grown accustomed to life outside strict Qun teachings, indulging in hedonistic pursuits and interpersonal relationships. If the protagonist is Qunari, Bull laughs upon hearing rumors of a Qunari Herald, initially dismissing them as fanciful. He openly admits his role as a double agent, explaining that he will relay information about the Breach to both the Ben'Hassrath and the Inquisition. His true name, Hissrad ('one who creates illusion' or 'liar'), is revealed only if the player meets Gatt, a former elven slave and Qun convert whom Bull recruited in the past.

Reader's Guide

Iron Bull joins the party if the player initiates a conversation with Krem at the Haven stables, who conveys interest in retaining the Chargers as agents. The Inquisition must then travel to the Storm Coast region in Ferelden to meet them. He is designed as a pansexual character; pursuing him reveals an interest in consensual adult sadomasochistic activity. If the player does not pursue romance with him or Dorian, Bull may end up dating Dorian if both are in the party long enough. He corrects players who misgender Krem, demonstrating progressive views on human nature. As a companion, he offers insight into Qunari culture, physiology, and politics without revealing much about himself personally. His recruitment is optional, and his role shifts based on player choices regarding his loyalty to the Qun versus his crew.

Did You Know?

The character was designed to overcome a career-ending disability, featuring an eye patch and one-eyed vision.
Writer Patrick Weekes used soundtracks from movies like The Avengers and Iron Man 3 while writing for Bull.
He was named Best New Character of the Year by Giant Bomb's 2014 Game of the Year Awards.