"Game of Thrones" (GoT) captivated audiences worldwide with its intricate plotlines and complex characters. Beyond the realm of Westeros, the cast boasts diverse backgrounds and careers. Here's a glimpse into the real-life stories of some of the show's prominent actors:
Emilia Clarke (Daenerys Targaryen)
Before ascending as the Mother of Dragons, Emilia Clarke was relatively unknown, with her role in GoT marking her television debut. Post-GoT, Clarke ventured into film, starring in "Me Before You" (2016) and "Solo: A Star Wars Story" (2018). She also made her West End debut in "The Seagull" and is set to join the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the upcoming series "Secret Invasion."
Kit Harington (Jon Snow)
Kit Harington's portrayal of Jon Snow was his first television role, having previously performed on stage. Following GoT, Harington appeared in films like "Pompeii" (2014) and lent his voice to animated features such as "How to Train Your Dragon 2" (2014). He also returned to the stage, starring in the National Theatre's production of "Henry V."
Peter Dinklage (Tyrion Lannister)
A seasoned actor before GoT, Peter Dinklage gained widespread acclaim for his role as Tyrion Lannister, earning multiple awards. Post-series, Dinklage starred in films like "Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri" (2017) and voiced characters in animated movies such as "The Croods: A New Age" (2020). He also took on the titular role in the musical film "Cyrano" (2021).
Lena Headey (Cersei Lannister)
Prior to playing the formidable Cersei, Lena Headey had an established film career with roles in "300" (2006) and "The Brothers Grimm" (2005). After GoT, she appeared in films like "Fighting with My Family" (2019) and lent her voice to animated series such as "Infinity Train." Headey is also set to star in the upcoming series "Beacon 23."
Sophie Turner (Sansa Stark)
Sophie Turner grew up on the GoT set, with Sansa Stark being her breakout role. She expanded her career into film, portraying Jean Grey in "X-Men: Apocalypse" (2016) and "Dark Phoenix" (2019). Turner also starred in the television series "Survive" (2020) and is set to play the lead in the upcoming series "The Staircase."
Maisie Williams (Arya Stark)
Maisie Williams' role as Arya Stark was her acting debut. Post-GoT, she starred in the X-Men spin-off "The New Mutants" (2020) and portrayed punk icon Jordan in the miniseries "Pistol" (2022). Williams also co-founded the social media platform Daisie, aimed at connecting creatives.
Nikolaj Coster-Waldau (Jaime Lannister)
Danish actor Nikolaj Coster-Waldau had an extensive filmography before GoT. After the series, he starred in films like "Shot Caller" (2017) and "The Silencing" (2020). Coster-Waldau also co-produced and appeared in the documentary "Through Greenland," showcasing his journey across the Arctic.
Gwendoline Christie (Brienne of Tarth)
Gwendoline Christie gained recognition for her role as Brienne. Post-GoT, she appeared in the "Star Wars" sequel trilogy as Captain Phasma and starred in the Netflix series "The Sandman" (2022) as Lucifer. Christie is also known for her work in theater, having performed in productions like "A Midsummer Night's Dream."
Alfie Allen (Theon Greyjoy)
Before GoT, Alfie Allen appeared in films like "Atonement" (2007). Post-series, he earned a Tony Award nomination for his role in the play "Hangmen" (2022) and appeared in the film "Jojo Rabbit" (2019).
Iain Glen (Jorah Mormont)
Scottish actor Iain Glen had a prolific career before playing Jorah Mormont. After GoT, he portrayed Bruce Wayne in the series "Titans" (2019-2021) and starred in the Amazon series "The Rig" (2023).
These actors, among others from the GoT ensemble, have continued to build diverse and successful careers across film, television, and theater since the series concluded.
For a visual exploration of the cast's real-life backgrounds and current endeavors, you might find this video insightful:
