Gusts of wintery winds may have dominated the Seven Kingdoms in Game of Thrones, but behind the scenes, the actors who brought these epic characters to life have proven to be just as fascinating in real life. From surprise royalty to real-life dragons, let's delve into the fascinating world of Game of Thrones actors in real life.
This blockbuster HBO series has captivated audiences across the globe, and with such a vast ensemble cast, it's easy to see why the spotlight often shifts to these talented individuals. Yet, how much do we really know about their lives outside of Westeros? Join us as we explore the lesser-known facts and incredible stories about your favorite GoT actors.
Unlikely Royalty
One of the most intriguing aspects of life imitating art in Game of Thrones is the discovery of real-life blue bloods among the cast. Did you know that Sophie Turner, who portrayed the fierce Sansa Stark, is descended from English royalty? That's right; her lineage can be traced back to none other than King Edward III himself.
Meanwhile, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, whose character Jamie Lannister was often entangled in political intrigue, shares a connection with real-life royalty. The Danish actor is a distant cousin of the Danish Queen Margrethe II. The story of these unexpected regal connections is enough to make any Westeros-loving history buff feel like they've found a hidden cache of maester scrolls.
Iconic TV Families
Speaking of royal connections, let's explore the tight-knit bonds forged among the Game of Thrones cast. As the show progressed, it became apparent that the actors themselves had formed their own TV families. Liam Cunningham (Davos Seaworth) and Hannah Murray (Gilly) developed a father-daughter relationship on and off-screen, with Cunningham even serving as Murray's off-screen mentor.
A similar bond developed between Maisie Williams (Arya Stark) and Sophie Turner. The two actresses became so close that they even have matching tattoos symbolizing their enduring friendship. These real-life connections often made their on-screen sibling rivalries all the more poignant, as the actors brought a genuine affection for each other into their performances.
Beyond Westeros: Talent Beyond Acting
While Game of Thrones catapulted many of its actors into the limelight, it is essential to recognize the immense talent and versatility of this ensemble. Many of these individuals have proven their mettle in diverse roles, both on and off the screen. Take, for instance, Kit Harington, the man behind Jon Snow. Harington is also a talented stage actor, having received critical acclaim for his performance in the stage adaptation of The Wars of the Roses and Doctor Faustus at the Barbican Theatre.
Moreover, several actors have shown their musical prowess, such as Natalie Dormer (Margaery Tyrell), who can play multiple instruments and wrote her own album after learning the violin. Indira Varma (Ellaria Sand) is also a classically trained violinist and has performed with orchestras. These hidden musical talents add another layer to the astonishing versatility of the Game of Thrones cast.
From Dragons to Dragons
A fascinating parallel between the actors and their characters lies in their naming choices for their own pets. After all, having dragons at their beck and call isn't an everyday occurrence. Daenerys Targaryen's dragon namesakes, Drogon, Viserion, and Rhaegal, might have been mythical creatures in the show, but in real life, Kit Harington and Rose Leslie chose to name their pet dogs Drogon and Waffle, respectively.
Additionally, when Gwendoline Christie (Brienne of Tarth) adopted a dog, she aptly named him "Bonaden and Littlefinger," a charming nod to her character's complicated relationship with the cunning Petyr Baelish. These fetching pet names are a delightful testament to the lasting impact of these beloved characters on the lives of their actors.
Actors with Superpowers
While holding a dragon on a leash might be reserved for the small screen, some GOT actors have proven to have extraordinary off-screen abilities. Pilou Asbæk, who played the cunning Euron Greyjoy, is not only an accomplished actor but also a keen sportsman. The Danish actor represented his country in fencing at the 2004 Summer Olympics, showcasing a unique set of skills that would serve the Iron Islands' рейдер bien.
Conversely, when it comes to superhuman strength, the Hound himself, Rory McCann, holds the record for being one of the tallest actors in the world, standing at an imposing 6 feet 6 inches. His intimidating size and resilience made him the perfect fit for the Sands Noble turned professional killer, Sandor Clegane. These real-life extraordinary traits further illustrate the unique qualities that landed these actors their formidable roles.
As the Seven Kingdoms recede into memory, it's essential to appreciate the extraordinary performers who brought these captivating characters to life. From surprise royals to hidden talents, the Game of Thrones actors have proven to be every bit as fascinating as the world they inhabited. As we look forward to the many projects these talented individuals will undertake in the future, one thing is clear - winter may have come and gone, but their incredible careers are just beginning.