Waiting on pins and Needle for the Game of Thrones green light did not stop most of us from speculatively reaching into our Hollywood grab bags and pulling out the names of our favorite actors and sticking them (sometimes haphazardly) onto roles yet to be filled. We all have people we can imagine in these roles; for some, Ray Stevenson is the only person they could imagine in the role of Gregor Clegane. In others, John Simm, or Aidan Quinn, are the only ones some people will accept for Littlefinger. We’ve heard the names bandied about; some are spot-on, others shocking, but …
Hey. It’s that time of year. We have until June (probably before June if we’re being technical) to find the men who will be playing Littlefinger, the Mountain the Rides, Renly Baratheon, Loras Tyrell, Ser Barristan the Bold …
The list goes on. It’s a lot of roles to cast. So I went swimming (figuratively speaking) through some of our archives, as well as some of the ones over at Westeros (thanks, Ran!), and came up with a nice handful of working actors that the fans themselves have spoken of in a positive – nay, dare I say – glowing light.
Many of them, it seems, already have summer projects. So this list is for them, those pretty horses that have left the barn for greener pastures in 2010:
Considered by more than a few people for the roles of Ygritte, Asha Greyjoy, or Mya Stone (my personal favorite), it appears as though the quirky Ms. Day will be busy in the modern What If Buffy Hunted Werewolves? adaptation of Little Red Riding Hood, Red. As this movie is slated for 2011, and as her work on The Guild continues, it raises doubts as to whether Day would be available for any sort of lengthy shoot this year. It doesn’t rule her out; it just makes things look a little improbable for her this year.
Yet another name that’s been bandied about for various roles, such as Littlefinger, Beric Dondarrion, and others. This is a very busy actor, however, and his continued work with Grey’s Anatomy, not to mention the upcoming Rome movie will keep him busy at least for the remainder of the year. Next year? Who knows? A surprise turn as Mance Rayder would be just the sort of cameo I could see him thriving in.
Tom Payne
An early candidate and favorite for the role of Viserys, Mr. Payne auditioned for the role but it was ultimately won by Harry Lloyd. Some believe it was Payne’s speculative comments on Twitter regarding Game of Thrones that put him out of favor with HBO, but those rumors can be put to rest as he has landed a role in the upcoming HBO production of Luck. Payne was considered by some to be perfect for Loras Tyrell (and was my personal pick to play Marillion), but one supposes being in a Michael Mann production opposite Dustin Hoffman is a nice consolation prize.
More people will be scratched off the 2010 list as more news arrives. Until then, all we can do is speculate.
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152 Comments
Nice post! I vote for Alan Rickman but I have NO idea what he could play I just think he would be awesome in there somewhere!
ScottQuote Reply
Man, I want to know who will be Varys. My pick right now is Timothy Spall.
Stella MarisQuote Reply
uhh as i said before i don't know many actors and actresses but judging only by the looks all the caracters they would fit the roles pretty well
my 2 cents..
@JehphgQuote Reply
I posted this on Westeros but since we're having casting fun again may I suggest Petra Hartung as Brienne. http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0367265/
Picture http://www.filmweb.pl/o410246/Petra+Hartung
dizzy34Quote Reply
I'm gunning for Stephen Fry as Varys. Matt Lucas looks more like him and can actually act seriously, but I'm not sure I could take him seriously in the role (especially after KROD MANDOON).
I keep thinking Eddie Izzard would be great as well, but every time I see him act seriously in something he never quite seems to pull it off, so maybe not.
Adam WhiteheadQuote Reply
I want to know who's going to be Barristan, what's the speculation like about him?
JohnQuote Reply
Oh my…oh my goodness. She *is* Brienne. She looks exactly how I see her in my mind. My jaw is dropped. Good one!
Stella MarisQuote Reply
Yeah and she's tall and big (not fat) too. She's in the bar room scene of Ingorious Bastards.
dizzy34Quote Reply
Ygritte or Asha Greyjoy won't appear in the first season so Felicia Day's 2010 schedule would not matter in those cases.
Can't see Stephen Fry as Varys to be honest.
MormegilQuote Reply
so perfect for Brienne!
nicoleQuote Reply
OT, but worthy of mentioning:
Donald Sumpter (Maester Luwin in GoT) is appearing in the WARHAMMER 40,000 movie, ULTRAMARINES, currently in production. He has a video appearance here at the 4 minute mark and talks about the rarity of being offered the role of eight-foot killing machine superheroes at his age ;-)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zuH9kNc-MNs
Adam WhiteheadQuote Reply
Stephen Fry as Varys would be pure win, I hope this is a possibility
JohnQuote Reply
How about Enum Elliot as Bronn?
2nd from left in this pic
http://www.aceshowbiz.com/images/still/black_deat…
MormegilQuote Reply
Well, as always I'll suggest Brian Cox or Brian Blessed for the Old Bear. I also like Alan Dale as Tywin.
But I just watched Season One of the Tudors this week, and I was very impressed with Sam Neill's acting! I've seen him in other roles, but never appreciated him much until seeing him in the Tudors. I think Neill could definitely fit into the world of Westeros somewhere.
LexQuote Reply
I noticed David Warner is also in Black Death, he'd be a pretty good Barristan the Bold.
MormegilQuote Reply
I know what you mean with regards to Eddie, the serious work of his that I've seen never quite makes it. However, I really haven't seen a lot of his dramatic work, so I'm giving him the benefit of the doubt. It'd be such a wonderful surprise to see him pull off Varys with flying colours.
But the thought of Stephen Fry in that part is a tantalizing one…ah, just too many talented actors to choose from :)
KangaQuote Reply
good call, the face and eyes are perfect, but what about height and buld?
frizzlefryQuote Reply
My choice was James Cosmo (Peter O'Toole's military advisor in TROY and had a recent great turn as a warrior-leader in MERLIN). Top actor, in his sixties I believe but with a great presence and a long history of playing warrior or soldier roles.
Adam WhiteheadQuote Reply
And accent? I'm guessing from that website she's from Eastern Europe.
Adam WhiteheadQuote Reply
Dennis Menochet would make a perfect Stannis. As soon as I saw him, that was the first thought that came to mind
http://www.ask.com/bar?q=Denis+Menochet&page=…
frizzlefryQuote Reply
Here's a picture
http://www.imdb.com/media/rm2613217536/nm1616970
frizzlefryQuote Reply
Speaking of the Tudors, John Rhys-Myers is incredible. He would make a great Red Viper!
shadallionQuote Reply
And Mya Stone isn't exactly a huge part, so it might not be out of the question.
DemokritosQuote Reply
He'd make a pretty great Dolorous Edd, I think. I could also see him as Balon Greyjoy or perhaps Roose Bolton or somesuch.
DemokritosQuote Reply
Unless they significantly change the role of Brienne and really age her up, Hartung, age 40, would not be right for the role (German accent aside). I personally think an important part of being the Maid of Tarth is playing to her naivete, and you're only going to really find that in someone in their late teens or 20's.
But who knows? Perhaps Brienne will be a different sort of creature than what we expect.
Fire And BloodQuote Reply
Henry Ian Cuswick rocked in LOST, I would love for HBO to pick him up for a recurring role in this series. What say you, brotha?
SalQuote Reply
As much as I love Stephen Fry, I don't think he would suit a character as chameleonic as Varys. He has an essential Stephen Fry-ness that always shines through (I think it's the voice) and Varys, while disguised, has to be unrecognisable. But if it happened I could definitely live with it.
Weirdly, my idea of Varys is not Matt Lucas, but David Walliams pretending to be Matt Lucas. Not sure why…
AnonQuote Reply
i am still holding onto hope for felicia for asha. she doesn't appear until late in clash of kings, right? or early storm of swords?
elinorrabbitQuote Reply
I could see Henry Ian Cusick as season two's Davos. I think he'd be a pretty good Onion Knight, brotha'.
Fire And BloodQuote Reply
Definitely has the look.
go_falconsQuote Reply
Geez, FAB, way to wrap that dark cloud around our silver lining! ; )
go_falconsQuote Reply
Sean Connery please
ScottQuote Reply
Retired. Too expensive. Not going to happen. If he's not going to play Gandalf for $10 million or whatever it was they offered him, he's not going to be in this.
Adam WhiteheadQuote Reply
Not bad, but I'm still aiming for Mark Strong.
Adam WhiteheadQuote Reply
I find Jonathan Rhys-Meyers to be a bit one-note. He was solid as Steerpike in the BBC's adaptation of GORMENGHAST, but his Henry VIII is not very impressive (probably not helped by Ray Winstone doing a superb Henry VIII in a mini-series just prior to THE TUDORS starting).
The Red Viper should be James Purefoy, in my book.
Adam WhiteheadQuote Reply
Bean is in his 50's right? Playing 35-40ish They can do a lot with make-up. The whole series is kind of aged up. She looks like she's the soldiers' ages in Inglorious Bastards. Different accents wouldn't be a problem for me. The people of Tarth can sound German. I'm sure the Dornishmen (and women) should sound different than a British accent. However we could go on for days about the accents so I'll stop there.
dizzy34Quote Reply
On westeros.org somewhere someone suggested that a non-caucasian (preferably black or hispanic) be cast as Bronn. It would be a good opportunity to bring some diversity into the series, and the description of Bronn in the books is rather vague. I'm all for it!
Stella MarisQuote Reply
If we're borrowing from the Tudors…I would absolutely *love* to see Henry Cavill as Renly. He's incredibly handsome, charming, a good actor, the right age, and did I mention handsome? :)
Here's a good photo of him: http://images2.fanpop.com/images/photos/5300000/H…
Stella MarisQuote Reply
I dunno…since someone made the suggestion of Tommy Flanagan as Davos, I haven't been able to get it out of my head. I think he would be perfect for the role.
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0281107/
Stella MarisQuote Reply
I haven't seen him in anything, but he *looks* PERFECT, exactly like I see him in my head.
dysfunctionQuote Reply
Dominic West (Wire's Jimmy McNulty) for Stannis
Dennis BrennanQuote Reply
Speaking of Varys. I want to introduce my new favorite pic to the role(drum roll please). Its Wallace Shawn!!! http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e…
I just love the idea of him as the Spider. He is a good enough actor not to be completely goofball, but he could add a much needed shot of comedy into a dark overly dramatic series. I simply drool at the prospect of double entendres, vieled threats and one-upmanship in the heavily dialogued scenes between a Shawn driven Varys and a Dinklage helmed Tyrion.
It could be a risk, but if they pulled it off we could seriously have some dramatic comedy that rivals Christopher and Pauly Walnuts fighting over ketchup packets in the back of a van stranded in the frozen New Jersey "wilderness".
Lord Ned's HeadQuote Reply
Too old. The actor who plays Stannis has to plausibly be Mark Addy's _younger_ brother. Stannis only acts older.
Dennis BrennanQuote Reply
Another choice that is growing on me is sticking McKidd in as Syrio. Even as busy as he currently is, the role is small enough yet completely and utterly cool enough to satisfy both the actor (scheduling issues) and fans (because we NEED him in this series somewhere).
Seriously. They could probably have him in and out of the set in a couple of days if they scheduled it right.
My number one pic for Syrio will always be Patrick Stewart, but perhaps if Patrick takes the riegns as Tywin or Barristan we fans could be blessed to have both men in the series.
Lord Ned's HeadQuote Reply
As far as he Gregor role is concerned, Conan Stevens has stepped up his interest. I think he is one of the only ones out there with the right look/physique for Gregor, not to mention the fact that he looks enough like Rory McCann (Sandor) to be his brother.
Jan GuilfoyleQuote Reply
Part of the problem with casting the perfect Varys (and this goes for most of the character actors I've heard suggested) is that he needs to be able to be unrecognizable and fade into whatever role Varys is playing at the time. I'm not sure we would not recognize Wallace Shawn as Wallace Shawn; the same can be said of Matt Lucas (Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dumb from Tim Burton's Alice even looked like Matt Lucas, and they were even cleverly disguised by Humpty-Dumptyesque CGI), Rowan Atkinson, Andy Serkis, and others.
Stephen Fry is one of the few I've seen suggested who, for me, could completely disappear into the other roles the Spider takes on. Be nice to see more suggestions though.
Fire And BloodQuote Reply
Gosh, he's been in all sorts of movies. Minor roles, but I'm sure you've seen him. If you've seen "Braveheart", he's the Wallace clansman who had just gotten married and his wife was taken by the local lord for the "First Night" rights. He also played Cicero in "Gladiator" :)
Apparently he got his deep facial scars from standing up to someone who was mugging him. I think that his look fits the stoic and gritty look that Davos has, and IMO he is a superb actor. I think he would really shine in the role. Also, he's Scottish FTW!
Stella MarisQuote Reply
I've always invisioned Michael Wincott as Bronn …. He's been in Alien Resurrection and The Crow ….. Love his voice
I also like the suggestion of Henry Ian Cusick as the Onion Knight …. I can see it brotha!!
Marilyn BonesQuote Reply
and yes to Patrick Stewart to whatever role he wants and can fit in!!!
Marilyn BonesQuote Reply
I think the best thing is to cast new unknown or at least, little known talents, like they did with Jon and Rob and others, so that the mental image that we have of the characters from the books won't be affected by the actors's past roles, plus it will be cheaper.
שמילQuote Reply
I still say Skeet Ulrich for Littlefinger. Hmmmm…Jerico……Lennie james is british. hmmmmm
Joe BlancheQuote Reply
I think Mark Sheppard (Badger on Firefly, Romo Lampkin on Battlestar Galactica) might be good as either Mance Rayder or Littlefinger. He's 5'10", but somehow managed to seem much shorter when he played Badger — though that might have had something to do with standing in the same room with Nathan Fillion (6' 1½") and Adam Baldwin (6'4").
Alex HarmanQuote Reply
Max Von Sydow as Ser Barristan the Bold! Hey I was looking at IMDB today and some guy named Brian Thompsan got cast. Dose any one know who he is playing?
My Watch BeginsQuote Reply
He'd got his scars while working as a bartender – DJ. They're a "glasgow smile", a punishment cutting much alike the Joker's scars in "The Dark Knight".
Or so I've been told…
CaedesQuote Reply
Wow, awesome suggestions from everyone! Henry Ian Cusick from Lost is my favourite character on that show; I would LOVE to see him in Game of Thrones! I also like the suggestions of David Warner, and Max Von Sydow (for anything). And seriously, is there ANYONE better for Gregor Clegane than Conan Stevens? He's a good physical match, he's SUPER enthusiastic about the project, and the character barely even needs much in the way of acting skills. I say Conan Stevens 100% (do you hear us, D&D??).
LexQuote Reply
Oh, and once again: Brian Cox, Brian Blessed, Alan Dale, Sam Neill, Garret Dillahunt, Ian McShane! Can't mention those names enough times.
LexQuote Reply
Haha yea, but I think he'd play a much better Knight than a wizard. I dare to dream. Maybe he's a huge fan of the books or something.
ScottQuote Reply
Hate to say it, but some of you guys anticipating tons of big celebrities and feature film stars filling out this show's minor roles better brace for disappointment in a few months when the British theatre actors and TV character actors actually filling them are announced. There are some realistic and good suggestions here, but on the other hand, Brian Cox? Max von Sydow? Sam Neill? ALAN RICKMAN? Don't hold your breaths.
HectorQuote Reply
I think a lot of people overestimate the extent of what make-up or special effects can do to de-age someone. It's not a magic bullet that can take off twenty or thirty years convincingly. There's a window where someone older can play younger, but outside of that window no amount of make-up is going to do the trick. Bean's in that nebulous window where he looks like he could be anything from 30-something to 50-something, so it doesn't stretch credibility.
The window gets smaller the younger you go. I'd say 30 is the upper age-limit for someone playing a teenager or 20-ish. I've seen a few convincing teenage performances from people in their late 20s playing teenagers, so it is possible, but it's rare.
Fate's BitchQuote Reply
Flanagan is perfect for a role in this show – any number of them. He could be a fine Bronn, Davos, Hoat, etc…Any of them.
BrudeQuote Reply
In that case, Gary Oldman would be perfect. He has played practically everything, and convincingly. A bit too well known though.
KochujangQuote Reply
If Sam Neill would do the Tudors, why not Game of Thrones?
LexQuote Reply
It's not as much an issue of Sam Neill doing TV as the fact that they already have a huge cast to pay including a few celebrities who probably don't come cheap and they're going to build sets for castles and towns and the wall and get weapons and armor, plus special effects and armies and so on and so forth. The chances of hiring anyone else who commands a high salary is reeeeaaal slim. I can maybe see a somewhat bigger name as Tywin but that's about it.
HectorQuote Reply
you are probably right.
שמילQuote Reply
He's 80 years old. I don't see him swinging a sword and kicking ass convincingly. He'd be even older later in the series too. Not that it's gonna happen anyway, still.
sjweningsQuote Reply
I don't think anybody is expecting "tons of big celebrities." No one person is even mentioning "tons" of celebrities, most just mention one or two (and most of those aren't what I'd really call big, for that matter), and I'm pretty sure most don't even have serious hopes or expectations of their suggestions being remotely likely to end up in the role. It's fantasizing much more than speculation.
DemokritosQuote Reply
OT – Nice article on the NI page of BBC news…
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/northern_ireland/85530…
So, WIC, did they ring you for a interview?
It looks like this site and others are being linked to the success of the show and rightly so!
Nice one!
BTW – It was a nice surprise to read in GOT that Blackadder took place in the Tourney! I can just picture him sitting outside his tent as Baldrick fits his armour!
Rimshot44Quote Reply
Could people maybe reference what post they are responding to…?
Rimshot,@ got a 404 on your link, but probably this. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/northern_ireland/8553079.stm ?
Will join the chorus of those saying Conan Stevens = Gregor Clegane
Got my own suggestion of Jimmy Nail= Yoren
Like Dominic West= Bronn, ie. could Jimmy McNulty do hard nosed insouciance with a hard edge =ursine arboreal defecation?
“My name is Arya Stark
You killed my family.
Just forget about any preparations”
TPFKA Thoros of MyrQuote Reply
Could people maybe reference what post they are responding to if they are not mentioning the name of the actior they are aprroving/disapproving…?
Will join the chorus of those saying Conan Stevens = Gregor Clegane
Got my own pet suggestion of Jimmy Nail= Yoren
Like Dominic West= Bronn, ie. could Jimmy McNulty do hard nosed insouciance with a hard edge =ursine arboreal defecation?
"My name is Arya Stark
You killed my family.
Just forget about any preparations""
TPFKA Thoros of MyrQuote Reply
Lennie James would be a great Davos!
go_falconsQuote Reply
Nice Idea, won't need to be british either if Bronn is a Summer Islander. Michael K Williams (Omar) would be great as Bronn.
CC_CarlQuote Reply
Chris Vance is British and appeared recently as the antagonist in the 3rd season of Burn Notice. He was playing a meticulously sophisticated and manipulative assassin and might be a great fit for Littlefinger.
LaurentQuote Reply
No, he would be a perfect Renly
NessusQuote Reply
I have to concur with Stella Maris here.
TOMMY FLANNAGAN would fit perfectly in GoT.
And there HAS to be a role for HENRY CAVILL. He likes to do historic pieces. GoT is close enough no?
http://images2.fanpop.com/images/photos/5300000/H…
NymeriaQuote Reply
Wow, thanks Nym! :D Tommy wasn't my idea…it was just something I saw, I think on WiC. He just really seems to click, though. I would like to see more of him!
And Henry…Oh, Henry. I'll admit, I have a "thing" for him, but seriously, the man has to be in GoT. I must to get my fix once The Tudors is over.
Stella MarisQuote Reply
I've never been happier to see a character die. Gilroy was one of the most annoying villains I've ever seen. I would go screaming into the night if that was the direction they went with Littlefinger.
At 5'11" he's way too big, anyway.
go_falconsQuote Reply
I fear I didn't stress my point enough…
I will watch ANYTHING Henry Cavill does next when The Tudors is over. But GoT should act quick to book this guy because he is rising and would have risen earlier if it hadn't been for his utterly bad luck in getting a main role in the last few years.
Did you know he was a serious contender for Batman (lost to Christian Bale), James Bond (to Daniel Craig) and Superman (to Brandon Routh)?
In December 05 Empire Magazine, dubbed him "…the most unlucky man in Hollywood"!
But at least his casting as Theseus in the upcoming Dawn of War looks promising.
NymeriaQuote Reply
Losing out on Superman doesn't seem so bad in retrospect. ;)
go_falconsQuote Reply
Agree on all points!
I knew he lost out on Batman and Superman…talk about bad luck! For seriously, the guy is way talented and would thrive in GoT.
Stella MarisQuote Reply
Cavill has been my choice for Renly since I saw him in the first season of The Tudors. He'd be perfect.
Winter Is ComingQuote Reply
Oh my god! It's HIS voice I've been hearing in my head when he tells Tyrion, "F*** you, dwarf."
Loved him in Robin Hood Prince of Thieves as well as The Count of Monte Cristo.
@wabawangaQuote Reply
Well she's only a year older than NCW (Jamie) so I figured it could work. The Lannisters are supposed to be in their 20's played by people in their late 30's early 40's.
dizzy34Quote Reply
Couldnt agree more ! Love him for Bronn.
Sarah Curry BurchQuote Reply
OMG, Dominic West as Bronn is PERFECT! Best Bronn suggestion yet.
LexQuote Reply
Wallace Shawn IS a Frey IMO. But he should surely be a part of this production. AGOT without him is inconceivable.
Tynan CraycraftQuote Reply
We don't need an ugly actress, we just need an actress and a make-up artist who knows his job. Charlize Theron in Monster comes to mind.
LaurentQuote Reply
And my choice would be Katee Sackhoff
LaurentQuote Reply
"Gilroy was one of the most annoying villains I've ever seen"
… Which would make him perfect for Littlefinger!!! :)
LaurentQuote Reply
Jaime & Cersei about 32 when the series starts, I believe, and Tyrion a bit younger, maybe 25 (that's a bit of a guess for Tyrion; I think Oberyn Martell said how old Jaime and Cersei were at the time of Tyrion's birth in the chapter where he first meets Tyrion, and now that I think about it he said they were nine, so that would make Tyrion 23 at the start of AGoT, if I remember correctly).
JackSparrowQuote Reply
Wallace Shawn? Inconceivable!!!
Sorry, I couldn't stop myself.
David MooreQuote Reply
Another pic for anyone interested. http://www.greatestmoviedeaths.com/2009/12/inglou…
dizzy34Quote Reply
What on earth are they going to do about Brienne, I wonder?? Because of double standards, there are practically no actually ugly female actors even though there are plenty of ugly male actors. Truly unattractive females are turned away from acting at such a young age that anyone that would look the part would have near zero acting experience. They could use makeup but… ick. I suppose they will probably go with a stunt actress or bodybuilder, but I'm worried that the calibre of acting won't be there in that case. It's one thing to hire a stunt actor to play Gregor Clegane – he has like 5 lines of dialogue. Brienne has hundreds. :p
Oh well. May not even get to her I guess.
jojoziggyQuote Reply
How about Robin Weigert as Brienne?
http://cultur-ed.edforum.net/wp-content/uploads/2…
NealQuote Reply
I'm still hoping for India De Beaufort to be Shae. Haven't seen too much speculation casting for Shae lately – any suggestions?
http://us.imdb.com/name/nm2459822/
KevinQuote Reply
good call, I said on another website (tower of the hand) that I liked him for Beric Dondarrion, but I think he could play a good Renly
frizzlefryQuote Reply
Just look on the bright side, you only have Sean Bean for one season.
frizzlefryQuote Reply
Toby Jones for Varys?
https://media.nt-online.org/files/Toby-JonesR4ah3…
izakmoQuote Reply
Brad Dourif for Doran Martell!!!
Ryan MichaelQuote Reply
As far as Brienne goes, I'm thinking that there's probably some unknown actress out there who'd be brilliant.
But if I had to choose from the actors that I know, I'd (rather strongly, I must admit) want it to be Katee Sackhoff. I think she's got the acting ability, and she's not a large lady but she's definitely tough, she wouldn't shy away from a physically demanding role like Brienne's.
And a fair amount of people seem to think she's ugly as well. Personally I think she's pretty, but I've also seen her look not so flattering in some roles, so I think she could pull off Brienne's look if she wanted to.
and back under my customary rock I go… :)
KangaQuote Reply
Here's a picture, for those of you who aren't familiar with her work.
http://www.universal-playback.com/assets/images/0…
KangaQuote Reply
I dont know this actor, or the character you're refrencing, but … too tall? I believe in the books Littlefinger is described as being of a shorter stature than others, but is his height really that siginificant to the role? Outside of Tyrion and Gregor, I cant really think of any character in the series whose height/size should really make too much of a difference. I'm not saying a 6'5" actor would work well for the part, but 5'11" isnt going to ruin the character …for me at least = D
Sarah Curry BurchQuote Reply
He eyes aren't right. I think that is the most important aspect of Brienne's physical appearance: a large woman, not very attractive, but with captivating eyes. That's the main reason I liked the earlier suggestion of Petra Hartung, even though some feel she's too old.
frizzlefryQuote Reply
We've debated this issue before on here. I (and others) feel that Littlefinger's lack of height plays a significant role in his psychology. Napoleon complex, need to prove himself worthy to people who have always, literally, looked down on him. While a lot of this also stems from his lowly birth and being from the Fingers (the Arkansas of Westeros) and can be explained in the books it would be awkward and detract from the drama to try and show it on TV. So, I think it becomes even more important to emphasize his height as a driving force behind his particular goals and motivations.
Maybe it's being short myself, but I think it is essential that this part of his character be maintained. Others completely disagree with me. They're wrong of course, but they disagree. :)
go_falconsQuote Reply
Brad Dourif is Craster.
go_falconsQuote Reply
I think some of you missed this post by My Watch Begins, Brian Thompson has been cast, the alien bounty hunter in the X-Files. Who do you think he is playing? Bronn? Yoren?
http://www.imdb.com/media/rm1840945664/nm0859921
frizzlefryQuote Reply
Another photo of Petra: http://funkwerk.de/newsletter/18_2009September/bi…
Stella MarisQuote Reply
I think this is some fangirl's hoax/attempt to push a personal favorite.
A) He's American
B) I don't think anyone was cast in the pilot without hints coming from GRRM. I don't see it happening now for the series.
go_falconsQuote Reply
I can see that.
Ryan MichaelQuote Reply
I think with makeup that Wallace Shawn could show off the Spider's chameleon abilities. Besides, Varys' ability to change appearance really isn't as important as his dialogue scenes with other characters especially Ned, LF and Tyrion. If D&D wanted to inject a little comedy with a slighty more humorous Varys than in the books then I strongly recomend Wallace for the role.
If they wanted to play Varys straight then the top of my list is David Bamber. As Cicero in Rome, he certainly has the pedigree to take on the role.
Lord Ned's HeadQuote Reply
I did a little pic searching and ended up pretty impressed with the variety of looks I found from him. Here is his Cicero pic http://images.buddytv.com/articles/rome/images/da…
Here is a younger looking Bamber http://www.nndb.com/people/893/000043764/jefftwee…
Hippy Bamber http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www…
Pride and Prejudice http://www.jasna.org/persuasions/on-line/vol29no1/images/chan-fig-2.jpg
And lastly Hitler Bamber http://img.listal.com/image/836178/300full.jpg
Spider indeed!
Lord Ned's HeadQuote Reply
Yeah, the eyes are definitely important, and I agree about Sackhoff's. They could use contacts or something to fix that, but eyes that're naturally that captivating instead would probably be best. IMO I think Katee's eyes don't necessarily match everyones' mental image of Brienne, but I'd be okay with that, I think they're striking enough in their own way. But that's just me :)
I did like the look of Petra Hartung, her eyes really jump out at you. Liked her the best out of the other suggestions, for sure. She may be not quite the right age, but she could still pull it off really well, who knows.
KangaQuote Reply
maybe Bronn?
frizzlefryQuote Reply
I'm guessing the "too old" is referencing Mark Strong?
Menochet (and I have to admit, frizzlefry, I had the same thought) is twelve years younger than Mark Addy.
@sgnpQuote Reply
I'd agree with that. I think he'd bring an extra bit of character to Davos for me, though, so that's my preference for him.
@sgnpQuote Reply
Problem: Brienne is supposed to be big and ugly. Katee Sackhoff is petite and a smoking hottie ;)
Kenneth ØsterQuote Reply
I'd be wary of anything that pops up on IMDB. Fans have been adding their favorite actors for a while now, and it seems like there's very little oversight.
@sgnpQuote Reply
Alexander Siddig as the Red Wiper, now THAT is a casting I really want. A lot of people have suggested some excellent British actors for the part, but in my opinion the Red Wiper HAS to look either mediterranian or middle-eastern.
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0796502/
Kenneth ØsterQuote Reply
I agree. Height does matter for the character. I do think, as some mentioned earlier, that you might be able to get away with someone like Mark Sheppard, who seems to be able to shrink depending on the demands of the role.
Also, nice to see you back.
@sgnpQuote Reply
Second alexander Siddig as the Red Viper
FishQuote Reply
David Bamber would make an excellent Varys.
Fate's BitchQuote Reply
I totally agree. I hope they get a charismatic Middle-Eastern actor for the role, although I'd be fine with a similarly complexioned Mediterranean actor. Same goes for the rest of the Dornish characters.
Fate's BitchQuote Reply
Mark Strong's only a year older than Addy though. It's not too big a stretch to have him play the slightly younger brother as they look more or less the same age.
Fate's BitchQuote Reply
¿An David Tennant as Littlefinger?
lopQuote Reply
Thanks, Paul. I kind of went into lurker mode during the whole waiting-for-pickup period. Since I don't have any "sources" in the industry I didn't really have much to add to the discussion. Funny we haven't heard from the Sourcenator since the greenlight.
go_falconsQuote Reply
a while ago was suggested on this thread:
http://winter-is-coming.net/2009/11/ncw-talks-about-the-shoot/#idc-container
to use karina smulders in the role of brienne
http://images.google.com/images?q=karina+smulders
JehphgQuote Reply
a while ago was suggested on this thread:
http://winter-is-coming.net/2009/11/ncw-talks-abo…
to use karina smulders in the role of brienne
http://images.google.com/images?q=karina+smulders
@JehphgQuote Reply
i found this video so anyone that is interested can see her better:
http://www.cinema.nl/nff-2009/media/5374556/nieuwe-generatie-actrices-karina-smulders
JehphgQuote Reply
Felicia Day rules, but she's too old for any of those suggested parts. Yes, she has a young and pretty face, but it won't do.
However, seeing that she is a fan of the books (as stated by her own self), it would be a pity if she didn't get some role. Go Felicia! :)
LaughingSkullQuote Reply
That guy was creepy on X-Files. I could see him as Ilyn Payne
shadallionQuote Reply
Love the idea. He's really a very good actor, and the Red Viper is a good part to showcase some, shall we say, cast diversity. Also, I think the age and look are good.
KyleQuote Reply
There is a possibility that they would have gone off and cast somebody as a future Mance Rayder, since he was at the feast that is featured in the pilot. I can see them using Americans for wildlings, just train them to have a unique accent that doesn't neatly correspond to any particular real world accent.
KyleQuote Reply
Her face, I can see, but her build is not believable as Brienne. I agree with those who have suggested it will be a virtual unknown, or else they will have to change her character a lot. There are also, certainly, female bodybuilders with an interest in acting (they're called wrestlers). Anybody know anything about the world of women's "wrestling"?
KyleQuote Reply
I could see him as Ilyn Payne in which case point A wouldn't matter. But I still stand by point B.
go_falconsQuote Reply
Siddig is to effete for the Red Viper.
shadallionQuote Reply
The world of women's wrestling is dominated by sexy women. Brienne needs to be filled by a broad shouldered woman that has a build similar to a man. She also needs to be normal looking at the most and ugly at the best.
ScottQuote Reply
IMHO, I think we should try and get Jesus H. Christ to play Beric Dondarian. He's already got the swagger and bravado that Beric needs.
Is there any other actor out there that has actually experience in resurrection? Answer: NO! (no wait, John Travolta was resurrected w/ Pulp Fiction, but he's probably too big of a name to be on our wish lists.)
Also, think of how awesome the Wrap Party would be at the end of the season. Those dudes will never run out of booze! I can see JHC turning water to wine, oregano to weed, and baby power to coke. And you know that the Jeez has got a sense of humor. He let crazy John the Apostle write the epilogue to the Bible! (of course, I don't think he thought we'd take it so seriously.)
In conclusion, if we don't at least offer him the part, he'll probably send us all to hell. So we should just go w/ it. Can the dude act? I don' t know, but I do know that he was able to convince 12 dudes that he was the son of God. That says a lot.
NealQuote Reply
Peter O'Toole would be amazing as Maester Aemon.
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000564/
Javier FoxQuote Reply
The size complex does make a lot of sense and Sheppard would be a favourite for me.
I still think Vance could be a good cast for GOT. Maybe Renly?
LaurentQuote Reply
Um, wow. I'm an atheist and I found that insulting.
go_falconsQuote Reply
In a one-off movie absolutely! Over 4 or 5 seasons that might not even happen on a yearly basis? I wouldn't take that gamble.
go_falconsQuote Reply
He would, I agree.
But it is highly improbable.
Derek Jacobi, would not be bad either, but it is also highly improbable.
The_Rabbit01Quote Reply
Should be too old for Renly (though I was surprised to learn that he's pushing 40). How do you think he would look as a redhead? He could be Edmure.
go_falconsQuote Reply
I want to see some more American actors cast! (ones who know how to do period pieces and convincing British/Scottish/Irish dialect if you look towards American theatre actors you well find some very good period piece actors and actresses) I think Henry Thomas would be great in a role. Perhaps as Bronn or Marillion. I saw him in Gangs of New York and he did a wonderful job with a very convincing dialect. And I must ask again…WHO IS BRIAN THOMPSON PLAYING. IMDB HAS HIM CAST IN A ROLE BUT DOESN'T SAY WHICH ONE!!!!!!
My Watch BeginsQuote Reply
"…you would find it insulting," is my initial reaction to what you said.
Lighten up. If Jesus did exist, I'm sure he would have had a decent sense of humor. I can't imagine the son of God not being able to laugh at his own mystique.
NealQuote Reply
Not to start a flame war (as this has always been the most civil online community I have ever seen) but my point was that if an atheist found your post insulting I can only imagine the outrage felt by people with an emotional attachment to the christian faith.
go_falconsQuote Reply
He's not been cast. Someone inserted him into the list randomly.
Also, stop spamming.
Ser_NAQuote Reply
Highly offended, but smart enough to ignore a troll when I see one. ^^
Sarah Curry BurchQuote Reply
Haha, no argument there ;)
KangaQuote Reply
I love your choices for Old Bear Mormont. Dale is the best choice for Tywin mentioned so far, but I kinda hope they surprise us with a fantastic unknown for this role.
How about Sam Neill as Kevan Lannister?
@ena2345Quote Reply
the eyes aren't right
frizzlefryQuote Reply
Raising the important question; who will play Ser Jacelyn Bywater?
To me, one actor stands out, Richard Belzer. Becuse by giving him the part, we get close to letting sergent John Munch, having earlier appeared on Homicide, Law & Order, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, The X-Files (1997), The Beat, Law & Order: Trial by Jury, Arrested Development and…Sesame Street.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Munch
http://tvseriesfinale.com/tv-show/detective-john-munch-a-record-breaking-character/
How can he not turn up as the gold cloak who send Janos Slynt off to the Wall?
and,incidentally, http://blogoficeandfire.blogspot.com/2010_03_01_archive.html is up and running again, for those that have followed an amusing and snarky reading of the books.
TPFKA Thoros of MyrQuote Reply
Kevin McKidd MUST be in this show :) Someone suggested Syrio, but assuming McKidd is so talented he could play everyone, I'd like a major role for him.
Right now he's busy, but maybe for an ipothetical second season he'll be available. He would be a perfect Stannis, don't you think?
Among the others suggestion, I'd love to see Dominic "McNulty" West as Bronn and Henry Cavill as Renly; Henry Ian Cusick as Davos would be awsome, brotha…
Laura LuchettiQuote Reply