What is the backstory of the character Winston, and how does he become the manager of the Continental?

Winston is a pivotal character in the John Wick franchise. He is the manager of the Continental Hotel, which serves as a neutral ground for assassins in the criminal underworld. Winston is played by Ian McShane, and his character has a mysterious backstory that is gradually revealed throughout the movies.

According to the films, Winston was once an assassin himself, and a highly skilled one at that. He became disillusioned with the constant violence and bloodshed, however, and decided to retire from the business. He then opened the Continental Hotel, which became a sanctuary for other assassins seeking refuge from the chaos of their profession.

Over time, Winston became the de facto leader of the Continental's New York City branch. He is a shrewd businessman and a respected figure among the assassins who frequent the hotel. He also has a complicated relationship with John Wick, the titular character of the franchise.

As for how Winston became the manager of the Continental, that is not fully explained in the movies. It is suggested that he simply founded the hotel and assumed the role of manager, but the details are left up to the viewer's imagination.