Acastus was the son of King Pelias of Iolcus. After Medea tricked Pelias's daughters into killing their father, Acastus assumed the throne and hosted elaborate funeral games in Pelias's honor.
Acastus expelled Jason from Iolcus after Medea murdered his father Pelias. Despite having sailed together as Argonauts, the killing of Pelias made them bitter enemies.
Acastus betrayed his guest Peleus on Mount Pelion, stealing his sword and abandoning him among the centaurs after his wife Astydameia falsely accused Peleus of assault.
Acastus defied his father Pelias to sail with the Argonauts on the quest for the Golden Fleece. His presence among the crew added tension, as Pelias had sent Jason on the voyage expecting him to die.
Acastus's father Pelias usurped the throne from Aeson. After Medea killed Pelias, Acastus became king of Iolcus and expelled Jason, perpetuating the conflict between the two royal lines.
Peleus's survival of Acastus's betrayal on Mount Pelion led to his marriage to Thetis, as Chiron arranged the match after rescuing Peleus. Acastus's treachery thus indirectly set the stage for Achilles' birth.
Acastus sailed with the Argonauts on the Voyage of the Argo despite his father Pelias having sent Jason on the quest expecting him to die. His presence aboard the Argo created tension throughout the voyage.
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