Step out of the fantastical world of Westeros and into the real lives of the HBO’s Game of Thrones cast, as we delve into the intriguing stories that define them off-screen.
While many might think the show catapulted its actors to unending fame and fortune, the reality is more nuanced. For some, Game of Thrones presented significant challenges and career obstacles. Let us explore how the Game of Thrones cast members navigated their careers post-show and debunk the notion that the series had a solely negative impact on their professional lives.
Emilia Clarke
One of the most memorable Game of Thrones cast members, Emilia Clarke, embarked on a captivating post-Daenerys adventure, both professionally and personally. She transitioned smoothly into diverse roles, from the charming chaos of romantic comedies like Last Christmas to the adrenaline-pumping thrills of superhero flicks such as Marvel’s Secret Invasion.
Additionally, Clarke reignited her theatrical spark with a critically acclaimed West End debut in The Seagull and stepped behind the camera to direct the short film Leading Lady Parts.
Clarke’s real-life endeavours are equally inspiring. She co-founded the SameYou charity, supporting young brain injury survivors—a cause close to her heart after experiencing two aneurysms herself.
Her personal story, shared in The New Yorker, raised awareness and empowered others facing similar challenges. Despite a high-profile romance with director Charlie McDowell that ended in 2019, Clarke has focused on her passions and philanthropy, proving her resilience and multifaceted talent.
Kit Harington
Kit Harington, who played Jon Snow, also faced significant challenges post-Game of Thrones. His breakthrough role led to other opportunities, including starring in Pompeii and Testament of Youth, as well as the BBC series Gunpowder.
However, the intense pressure and rapid rise to fame took a toll, leading Harington to check into rehab after the series finale. Despite this setback, he made a strong comeback with roles in Criminal: UK and Eternals and voiced Eret in the How to Train Your Dragon franchise.
Harington’s real-life romance with co-star Rose Leslie adds a heartwarming chapter to his story. Their on-screen chemistry blossomed into a real-life marriage, culminating in a Scottish ceremony in 2018 and the birth of their two children in 2021 and 2023. This fairy-tale romance underscores Harington’s resilience and commitment to personal growth and family.
Richard Madden
Richard Madden, who portrayed Robb Stark, faced an early exit from Game of Thrones but leveraged the exposure to build a dynamic career.
He starred in the Elton John biopic Rocketman and the Netflix series Bodyguard, showcasing his versatility. Despite keeping his personal life private, Madden’s professional choices reflect a strategic approach to his craft, allowing him to explore diverse roles and avoid typecasting.
Peter Dinklage
Since leaving Westeros, Peter Dinklage has demonstrated remarkable versatility, from wielding the hammer of Eitri in Avengers: Infinity War to embodying Hervé Villechaize in My Dinner with Hervé.
He continues to challenge typecasting with roles in productions like I Care a Lot and a theatrical portrayal of Cyrano de Bergerac. Married to theatre director Erica Schmidt, Dinklage balances his professional achievements with a fulfilling family life, proving his ability to navigate post-Game of Thrones fame with grace and ambition.
Lena Headey
Lena Headey, the formidable Cersei Lannister, has diversified her career post-Game of Thrones. She starred in the action thriller Gunpowder Milkshake and lent her voice to The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance.
Headey also directed the short film The Trap and continues to explore live-action roles. Personally, she prioritizes her family and personal fulfilment, demonstrating a balanced approach to life after the series.
Maisie Williams
Maisie Williams, known for her role as Arya Stark, has pursued a variety of projects since leaving Game of Thrones. She starred in the British dark comedy miniseries Two Weeks to Live and portrayed Pamela Rooke in the FX series Pistol.
Beyond acting, Williams co-founded the creative agency Daisie and advocates for sustainability and mental health awareness. Her journey reflects a commitment to personal growth and social responsibility, redefining her narrative beyond her iconic role.
The Resilience of the Game of Thrones Cast
Despite the challenges and intense scrutiny that came with their roles in Game of Thrones, the cast has demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability.
They have leveraged their fame to explore new opportunities, advocate for important causes, and build fulfilling personal lives. For those eager to watch Game of Thrones cast members in their post-Westeros endeavours, it’s clear that their stories are far from over.
The resilience and creativity of the Game of Thrones cast in real life underscore their ability to thrive beyond the confines of the series, proving that their careers have been shaped, but not defined, by their time in Westeros.
