Maureen Ryan of the Chicago-Tribune has posted her full interview with George R. R. Martin and confirms what many people have suspected: Tamzin Merchant will not be returning in the role of Daenarys Targaryen. The interview, which was teased by Ryan and GRRM shortly after the C2E2 con, is lengthy and contains questions and answers about not just Game of Thrones, but various topics including old theaters, vampires, and fan communities. Below is a snippet:
Ryan: How closely involved are you in the making of the show? I know you’re writing the eighth script, is that correct?
Martin: My deal calls for me to write one script this season. It’s script eight this year and next year, I’ll do another one if we get another season. I really can’t do more than that because I still have the [next 'A Song of Ice and Fire'] books to write. The books take an enormous amount of time. There’s a part of me that would love to be more involved than I am involved, attending the meetings and all that, but I can’t. Even if they wanted me, which I’m not sure they would, but I can’t. So my level of involvement is great. I have a great communication with David and Dan and with the people at HBO and I certainly feel like I’m part of the process, but they’re the showrunners and the buck stops with them, not with me.
Winter Is Coming: Well I can’t say I’m surprised about Merchant. We knew they were auditioning, so it seemed pointless to go through the whole audition process without actually planning on going through with a recast. I had started to warm up to Tamzin as Dany, so I am a little disappointed. But I’m excited to see who will replace her. I hope, if the future Dany reads this site, she has thick skin as any choice is almost certainly going to meet some level of criticism.
About the interview, outside of the Dany news, nothing too earth-shattering. But it is still great to see the show and the books continue to get good press. Mo Ryan has been great at getting exclusive Thrones info and updates and I’m happy to see her continue to lead the way amongst TV journalists in that department.
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229 Comments
Well, I'm a bit disappointed. Tazmin wasn't what I'd call gorgeous, but she has a very…unique, almost alien, quality about her. Very beautiful, but not classically so. She totally fit what I thought the character should look like.
However, I've said it before, this is HBO that we're talking about. They know what they're doing. I'm sure that I'll be happy with whomever they choose. Having not seen any footage or stills of Tazmin as Dany, I'm just not that invested.
David MooreQuote Reply
It is disappointing news to hear. I was looking forward to how she would pull off Dany. At this point we can only hope that the pilot is leaked and we can see for ourselves what could have been.
@ThanatosAngelQuote Reply
I am glad that the "Dany thing" is finaly clear.
@The_Rabbit01Quote Reply
She's pretty good as air-headed slut Katherine Howard, but I never truly warmed to her as Dany.
Very interested to see who they go wtih instead. I actually hope they go young (18) so that she can stay looking very youthful through multiple seasons.
shadallionQuote Reply
Finally some confirmation!
That interview was great! Although I expected the hold up to have been caused by a scoop given by GRRM… and it turns out it's the uncasting of Dany being confirmed by HBO after all..
I like the irony of GRRM writing ASoIaF in reaction to his creatively-limited TV years and the the interest the TV industry now shows towards his creatievly-unlimited books. :)
Now I can't wait for the big casting news!
NymeriaQuote Reply
I'm glad they finally confirmed the suspicions of the role being recast. I'm excited to see who they get — I am feeling pretty positive about it. I wasn't completely sold on Tamzin, and Dany is one of my favorite characters of the series.
I'm curious about WHY Tamzin is out, though. Think she left on her own accord??
@AjanelewisQuote Reply
Won't miss Merchant at all.
Steven ScottQuote Reply
You only need to think about the circumstances. It's crystal clear, because no one is talking about it. No one wants to be the bad guy.
They watched the pilot and saw Dany was played by the wrong person. And it was so bad, that they were willing to spend a lot of money to find a new one, and then to reshoot scenes. Fin. TM will be fine with her career, but she's just not a Dany.
And a big thank you to whoever made that happen. Whoever you are, you made GOT a thousand percent better with that decision. It really doesn't matter who replaced TM, because so many actresses out there are better right off the bat. (But no more red-headed starlets from cali, please, that's just sick).
BTW I LOVE HOW GRRM SAYS:
"[Some fans] don’t believe me — they read my posts like [it's] some kind of Delphic Oracle speaking. You know, 'Is there a clue there….?'"
LAWLZ
NaysayerQuote Reply
And she used my photo from Belfast, which is cool :-)
Adam WhiteheadQuote Reply
Well I'm sad to see Tamzin Merchant go; I thought she'd be great as Dany. Hopefully she left for her own reasons and wasn't fired or scared off by all the people calling her ugly (?!).
But there's no use crying over it now. It's done. Time to move on to casting Dany again. I was kind of thinking of Merchant's Jane Eyre co-star, Jayne Wisenerhttp://www.imdb.com/name/nm2479184/ . Thoughts?
EmilyQuote Reply
Jayne Wisener is horrible. You are fired.
NaysayerQuote Reply
I thought anyone would be a thousand percent better than Merchant?
EmilyQuote Reply
That is really cool. You should demand something. Like your name in big letters. That's a terrific photo. Excellent lighting, impeccable focus.
NaysayerQuote Reply
Oh, THAT photo. Never mind.
NaysayerQuote Reply
Looks wise, Wisener is not a bad suggestion. She's 22, but looks younger. Haven't seen Sweeney Todd, so can't comment on her acting ability.
Winter Is ComingQuote Reply
Well, given two online-only publication won Journalism-related Pulitzers this year, I would say it is a major newspaper.
Too bad the photo is actually terrible. I think I see a fat man sitting in the front. It must have been the least terrible free photo available at the time of writing.
NaysayerQuote Reply
It's a pretty important role so I'm sure they are just exhausting all their options. It would be bad if Dany was either not a good actress or just didn't have the "presence" to carry nearly half the show.
dizzy34Quote Reply
I really want someone like Gemma Ward or Lily Cole to play Dany. Like, REALLY want it.
I'm especially fond of Lily Cole. I love her modeling work, and was really impressed by her in "The Imaginarium of Dr. Parnassus". She's unusual-looking, but gorgeous. She's trying to develop an acting career, and she's not afraid to pose nude from her modeling shoots:
NSFW NUDE PHOTO!http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2317/2134628584_aa…
I dunno. I really like the idea. Failing that, she could be Ygritte…
Stella MarisQuote Reply
Not feeling it either, sorry
NymeriaQuote Reply
No ways.
Everything you said is the exact opposite of true. Except the part about how TM looks like she is from outer space. And when she smiles, it does not warm my heart. It gives my heart tremors and my body is trucks as if by ice rain.
Also, Tam Merchat is actually thirty seven years old. She looks that young because she suffers from hypopituitarism (what the girl from the movie Orphan had). Okay, I'm lying about this.
I will add her that TM positively killed… KILLED… Tudors season 4… true, it was already in its death throws. You people should be dancing from this news, not crying for some random actress.
NaysayerQuote Reply
Gemma Ward is not the waifish thing she used to be. Not saying she is fat, but I don't think she is slender enough or young-looking enough to pull off the role of Dany.
Winter Is ComingQuote Reply
Oh! I like that suggestion. I'm not familiar with Lily Cole but I looked her up on IMDB and found this photo and thought it looked very Dany-likehttp://www.imdb.com/media/rm1379043840/nm2178959 !
I think the nudity is what makes casting Dany difficult. Not only does the actress have to be comfortable with it from the get-go, but Dany is supposed to be a teenager so the actress has to look young (international child pornography laws won't allow minors to be naked in films/tv).
EmilyQuote Reply
now I can go back to wishing for Gemma Ward! I kid, she's gorgeous and I think totally spot on in appearance (to me at least) but who knows if she can act well enough for it. She's still my perfect unrealistic choice :)
Really interested to see who they do pick though. Since they finally announced TM being out, maybe that means they've already cast or are at close?
ChryseeQuote Reply
No worries. Her face is a bit round and friendly which doesn't scream Targaryen too me. But she's about the right age…
How about we try another. Imogen Poots?http://www.imdb.com/media/rm24677632/nm1782299
EmilyQuote Reply
Weren't there supposed to be 2 other actresses that were strongly considered along with Tamzin for the role of Dany? I wonder if they re-auditioned.
RayQuote Reply
Right there with you! I totally see Dany as having a Gemma Ward/Lily Cole look. And I am also leaning more toward Lily Cole. She was great in Dr. Parnassus and she looks young. The only issue is her height, but hopefully with the right camera angles that could be fixed.
The Winter RoseQuote Reply
Yeah, if Ygritte is a weak, thin, LA heroin model. Then what's her naked face is perfect.
NaysayerQuote Reply
I don't like Gemma Ward nor Lily Cole at all. Their beauty is too ethereal and dollish, That I would say a "cold" looking. And Dany has to suggest the idea of a rising flame inside her. A much hotter choice is needed
@texdionisQuote Reply
After the dragons are 'born', she doesn't have to look that young.
NaysayerQuote Reply
I hope you kept the receipt for your sense of humor. I think it's defective.
Stella MarisQuote Reply
It should be a hot, young UNKNOWN actress.
shadallionQuote Reply
Tamzin's other co-star in Jane Eyre would be a much better choice than Jayne Wisener
Holliday Grainger, this girl is really going placeshttp://bit.ly/919HKk
ScreenterrierQuote Reply
I for one am sorry to see Merchant out
Coltaine777Quote Reply
I did like Lily Cole in The Imaginarium of Dr. Parnassus, her doll-like beauty fitted quite well to the film's surreal imagery. But no, she's really not my idea of Daenerys. Her face does look youthful, yes, but it also looks more plastic than most mannequins… And besides, she's quite busty, as is evident from the NSFW-link above.
And Ygritte, she should be the very opposite of Lily Cole, beautiful but in a earthy, wild and natural way.
- Castlerose
SnowfellQuote Reply
Well, I'm a bit disappointed. Tazmin wasn't what I'd call gorgeous, but she has a very…unique, almost alien, quality about her. Very beautiful, but not classically so. She totally fit what I thought the character should look like.
However, I've said it before, this is HBO that we're talking about. They know what they're doing. I'm sure that I'll be happy with whomever they choose. Having not seen any footage or stills of Tazmin as Dany, I'm just not that invested.
David MooreQuote Reply
Can she do nudity and sex scenes at just 17 though? What's the limit for American actresses?
Think she could talk the Fillion into doing a cameo?
Adam WhiteheadQuote Reply
Full versions here:
http://thewertzone.blogspot.com/2009/11/signing-p…
and here:
http://thewertzone.blogspot.com/2009/11/belfast-r…
Adam WhiteheadQuote Reply
According to Axechucker on Twitter, Kaya Scodelario has Tweeted that she auditioned for the role a while back, but he thought the new season of SKINS would mean she wouldn't be available. However, the current season of SKINS is Scodelario's last (the entire cast changes every two seasons) and already filmed, freeing her up for a role in GoT.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaya_Scodelario
Adam WhiteheadQuote Reply
Not only has the current season of Skins finished filming, it has also finished airing.
Kaya has been the exception to the entire cast changing every two seasons rule, given that she appeared in seasons 1 and 2, albeit a very small role, as Tony's little sister.
But I for one can only hope that she gets Dany. Very talented, looks young enough… would love to see some photoshopped photos with light (silver) hair. Plus wouldn't mind seeing her less some clothes… too far?
HostylQuote Reply
I love her and think she's great BUT a) she's American, b) "Castle" was picked up for a third season so she's contractually obligated to be elsewhere and c) she's too young for the nudity.
Signed,
Debbie Downer.
EmilyQuote Reply
Kaya is about to start filming as Cathy in Wuthering Heights.
ScreenterrierQuote Reply
Kaya is going to be filming Wuthering Heights in May/June – would potentially clash with GOT filming if that starts in June…. http://screenterrier.blogspot.com/2010/03/wutheri…
ScreenterrierQuote Reply
That could be a problem. But that said, if they REALLY wanted her for the role, they don't have to shoot the Morocco scenes right at the beginning of filming in June/July. Besides, Jason Momoa just started filming Conan the Barbarian so they might have to do that anyway.
EmilyQuote Reply
If they really want Kaya Scoledario, the Morocco stuff can be pushed back a little, I'm sure. And they've been hinting at an end of June start anyway.
More pics of Scoledario:
Black lace Goth Grrl.
Nice earrings, kid.
Super Scodes.
Oh, very nice of you.
I thought Concrete Blonde broke up?
Scodelario could work. I am sad to see Merchant gone. I think she's excellent in this season of THE TUDORS, which, while it has its script and pacing problems, is literal eye-candy in the costuming department, and the acting continues to be (mostly) top-notch.
I hope the decision was HBO's, and for the betterment of the show. If Merchant passed on it because she wants to do movies, then so long, farewell, goodbye, and good luck. The role of Daenerys, like the role of Tyrion, is potential Emmy-worthy stuff.
Fire And BloodQuote Reply
Oh well, at least we're getting some communication. Wonder when we'll hear of the replacement.
Good luck to the casting people – not an easy role to fill, I imagine, both in terms of acting ability and looks. Tamzin was a good fit lookswise imo, unconventionally pretty. I'll be disappointed if we end up with some generic babe as Daenerys.
PariahQuote Reply
GRRM Really should seek out some assistance to finish those books so that he can start new projects like writing about xxx cinema houses on other planets
I think he should hire Lynn Flewelling to finish SOIAF. She has a very similar style of writing. He just needs to give her the basic plots he makes when he locks the door to his study and plays with his toy knights castles, whispering dialogue so that Parris doesn't overhear.
NaysayerQuote Reply
Indeed. Does that make you a freelance photographer, now that you've had your photo (sort of) published by a major US newspaper?
Winter Is ComingQuote Reply
Well, if that picture makes you think "thin heroin model," no wonder you hated Merchant, Muff. Naked Lily Cole will never be accused by Viserys (or anyone) of being flat-chested. And THAT there woman has a pair of hips!
Since Muffsayer isn't giving her interpretation of Dany, allow me to see if I can translate her thoughts into something she might find pleasing: Dany?
@AxechuckerQuote Reply
ok so where exactly in that interview is the confirmation that merchant is out ? I read the whole bloody thing twice and nowhere does it discuss the role of daenerys.
ptzQuote Reply
Well, it's in the title. Plus there's this:
"Some scenes from the pilot will have to be reshot thanks to cast changes: HBO has confirmed that the role of an exiled noblewoman, Daenerys Targaryen, is being recast and Tamzin Merchant will not play that role in the series."
@AxechuckerQuote Reply
Oh, very nice. I could not have said it so well. I say AYE.
NaysayerQuote Reply
Why am I pining for the posts of Davey and friends?
Critical_GeekQuote Reply
Keyboard muscles, lets hear some of your awe inspiring choices.
dizzy34Quote Reply
LOL
LexQuote Reply
Elena Satine
http://www.hungster.com/hgd_08_pics/014_elena_sat…
LexQuote Reply
Two words: Elena Satine.
http://www.hungster.com/hgd_08_pics/014_elena_sat…
LexQuote Reply
http://www.imdb.com/media/rm2019464704/nm2829369
HodorQuote Reply
I was about to say she was too young but I see she turned 18 in March. It could work! A possibility. And we know she auditioned. Cool. Has she ever been blonde for a role?
I like this picture of her:http://kayascodelario.net/photos/displayimage.php…
EmilyQuote Reply
I wonder if there's any chance of getting Rachel Hurd-Wood for the role? It doesn't look like she has anything on her plate right now, and while she's acted in feature films, which might make her (or her agent) hesitant to do television, they've mostly been fairly small films. The most recent one, "Tomrrow, when the War Began" is based on the first novel in what's apparently a fairly popular YA series in Australia — but the character she plays is killed in the first book, meaning that even if the entire "Tomorrow" series is adapted, she probably won't be in the subsequent films.
Alex HarmanQuote Reply
I wonder if there's any chance of getting Rachel Hurd-Wood for the role? It doesn't look like she has anything on her plate right now, and while she's acted in feature films, which might make her (or her agent) hesitant to do television, they've mostly been fairly small films. The most recent one, "Tomrrow, when the War Began" is based on the first novel in what's apparently a fairly popular YA series in Australia — but the character she plays is killed in the first book, meaning that even if the entire "Tomorrow" series is adapted, she probably won't be in the subsequent films.
Alex HarmanQuote Reply
I wonder if there's any chance of getting Rachel Hurd-Wood for the role? It doesn't look like she has anything on her plate right now, and while she's acted in feature films, which might make her (or her agent) hesitant to do television, they've mostly been fairly small films. The most recent one, "Tomrrow, when the War Began" is based on the first novel in what's apparently a fairly popular YA series in Australia — but the character she plays is killed in the first book, meaning that even if the entire "Tomorrow" series is adapted, she probably won't be in the subsequent films.
Alex HarmanQuote Reply
I wonder if there's any chance of getting <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1248393/Rachel Hurd-Wood</a> for the role? It doesn't look like she has anything on her plate right now, and while she's acted in feature films, which might make her (or her agent) hesitant to do television, they've mostly been fairly small films. The most recent one, "Tomrrow, when the War Began" is based on the first novel in what's apparently a fairly popular YA series in Australia — but the character she plays is killed in the first book, meaning that even if the entire "Tomorrow" series is adapted, she probably won't be in the subsequent films.
Alex HarmanQuote Reply
I wonder if there's any chance of getting <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1248393/>Rachel Hurd-Wood for the role? It doesn't look like she has anything on her plate right now, and while she's acted in feature films, which might make her (or her agent) hesitant to do television, they've mostly been fairly small films. The most recent one, "Tomrrow, when the War Began" is based on the first novel in what's apparently a fairly popular YA series in Australia — but the character she plays is killed in the first book, meaning that even if the entire "Tomorrow" series is adapted, she probably won't be in the subsequent films.
Alex HarmanQuote Reply
I wonder if there's any chance of getting Rachel Hurd-Wood for the role? It doesn't look like she has anything on her plate right now, and while she's acted in feature films, which might make her (or her agent) hesitant to do television, they've mostly been fairly small films. The most recent one, "Tomrrow, when the War Began" is based on the first novel in what's apparently a fairly popular YA series in Australia — but the character she plays is killed in the first book, meaning that even if the entire "Tomorrow" series is adapted, she probably won't be in the subsequent films.
Alex HarmanQuote Reply
I wonder if there's any chance of getting <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1248393/>Rachel Hurd-Wood for the role? It doesn't look like she has anything on her plate right now, and while she's acted in feature films, which might make her (or her agent) hesitant to do television, they've mostly been fairly small films. The most recent one, "Tomrrow, when the War Began" is based on the first novel in what's apparently a fairly popular YA series in Australia — but the character she plays is killed in the first book, meaning that even if the entire "Tomorrow" series is adapted, she probably won't be in the subsequent films.
Alex HarmanQuote Reply
I wonder if there's any chance of getting Rachel Hurd-Wood for the role? It doesn't look like she has anything on her plate right now, and while she's acted in feature films, which might make her (or her agent) hesitant to do television, they've mostly been fairly small films. The most recent one, "Tomrrow, when the War Began" is based on the first novel in what's apparently a fairly popular YA series in Australia — but the character she plays is killed in the first book, meaning that even if the entire "Tomorrow" series is adapted, she probably won't be in the subsequent films.
Alex HarmanQuote Reply
Another Dany suggestion. This time based on looks. Amy Beth Hayes. She's older than I think they'll want to cast but does look young on screen. http://bit.ly/aqnqcY
ScreenterrierQuote Reply
I just wish we could get this RacheI Hurd-Wood I keep hearing about. They say she's the greatest.
CalculonQuote Reply
Rachel Hurd-Wood is meant to be shooting a film in Ireland in June – "The Last Furlong"
ScreenterrierQuote Reply
I've always loved Emily Browning's look for Dany ever since I saw her in the original Dany hypothetical casting post here.
I really love Kaya's look for her as well. Not as exotic/unusual as I'd like, but still suits the part very well.
AshliQuote Reply
I heard you the first 5 times.
LexQuote Reply
Oh no….I always thought Tamzin was perfect.
All these other actesses either look like Ice Queens or are 'smoking hot' in a vain way…nothing of that is Dany to me. The only one who (in my humble opinion) got Dany's charisma is Rachel Hurd-Wood…at least as a red-head in The Perfume. ;) But seems like she won't be avaiable…(she also reminded me a bit of Lyanna….or the character she played in The Perfume did.)
Tamzin also got that look in her face as if she were originally from another part of the world. (Valyria) ;) Sad to see she left….
SchlafmohnQuote Reply
This is made of win.
burthQuote Reply
My long time favourite for Daenerys: Imogen Poots. Unfortunately, she's not available.
@raijapQuote Reply
Another pic of Holly Grainger
ScreenterrierQuote Reply
Another pic of Holly Grainger
ScreenterrierQuote Reply
I like Imogen Poots too, but somehow I think she's just a little too perfectly/classically pretty?
ScreenterrierQuote Reply
And here's a very recent pic from the set of Bel Ami – Holly marrying Robert Pattinson – and it looks like she's got red hair for the role.
http://belamimovie.files.wordpress.com/2010/04/ho…
She shares the same agent as Rachel Hurd-Wood…. and Richard Madden.
ScreenterrierQuote Reply
I love Rachel Hurd-Wood but I don't think she would be right for Dany. She would completely rock the role of Margaery Tyrell, though.
go_falconsQuote Reply
Three words, Elena Satine Rocks, and here is that same pic with the photoshop enhancemant that MD did a few weeks back [urlTysnowQuote Reply
Three words, Elena Satine Rocks, and here is that same pic with the photoshop enhancemant that MD did a few weeks back [urlTysnowQuote Reply
As somobody posted before, the best choice for Dany from my point of view would be Kaya Scodelario. Some of those pics somewhere above are wonderful, and she is also talented actress. But either way, i am confident that HBO will choose someone, who will be great Dany.
MoldaQuote Reply
http://img255.imageshack.us/img255/7281/sdany.jpg
TysnowQuote Reply
Three words: Elena Satine Rocks, and here is that same pic with the photoshop enhancement that MD posted a few weeks back Elena an interesting tidbit on Ms. Satine's bio is that she is born of a ancient Georgian nobility, that should garner her a few nods.
TysnowQuote Reply
Morocco filming starts in July, according to Jason Momoa, which would fit in with that.
Adam WhiteheadQuote Reply
Yeah agreeing with Emily. She does have a great look, but due to the factors Emily brought up, its unlikely she would be considered.
The Winter RoseQuote Reply
She looks WAY too old for Dany
The Winter RoseQuote Reply
Hmm, she a very pretty young lady… not quite sure how I feel about her for Dany though. Also not sure if she would be able to rock the white-blonde hair. It's a hard color to pull off and she has very pronounced black eyebrows, which can be bleeched, but for going to such an extreme lightness, it's probably best that they find someone who is naturally fairer.
The Winter RoseQuote Reply
Emma Watson!
GuestQuote Reply
Strange women lying in ponds distributing swords is no basis for a system of government. Supreme executive power derives from a mandate from the masses, not from some farcical aquatic ceremony.
@SolamenteDaveQuote Reply
Not a bad choice, I can see her as Dany, she looks 15-16 and has the acting credentials. The problem with her and a few other suggestions I have seen on this board and others is the six letter word "budget". I am sure HBO will make certain the actress who they sign for the part will be contractually obligated for seven seasons (lets all hope). Which means the actress chosen wil only have time between seasons for one or two movies. Ms. Watson would bring a fan base since a large number of Potter fans will be 18 or older by next year. Her acting slate is clean for now, which I am surprised with, so she is available, but she has mentioned a desire to attend a University, so this could be the reason for her availability.
This might actually work if HBO could sign her, I mean just imagine the ratings with all those Potter fans tuning in weekly, it would be worth the extra dragons an episode and she would have time between seasons for college or a movie.
TysnowQuote Reply
I agree. The rest are far, far, FAR from okay. Compared to all the other names mentioned here, literally every single one of them (besides Ms. Scoledario), Tamzin Merchant is a dream casting.
I was never 100% sold on Ms. Merchant, but she did have that willowy, fey quality that Dany has. That's the thing; Dany isn't a hot supermodel. That's Cersei's territory. Dany is beautiful in an otherworldly fashion, which is what I think David Moore was trying to say (not that she looked like a space alien, thank you very much NaySayer).
Tamzin fit that mold, and so does Kaya Scoledario. But Ms. Scoledario is cuter, I must admit.
Josh ParkerQuote Reply
I actually could see this, but I echo Tysnow's concerns about her availability and asking price. Plus I wonder if she might be verging away from fey and willowy and into hot super model territory.
Josh ParkerQuote Reply
Evanna Lynch has that etheral, willowy appearance many of you are looking for Evanna and she would bring along the Harry Potter fanbase to boot. She is 18 has the talent and is available.
TysnowQuote Reply
One word: No.
Another word: Next.
NaysayerQuote Reply
Okay…yeah. I'm liking it. I'm liking it a lot.
Josh ParkerQuote Reply
Emma Watson is just finishing her first year at Brown University. She'll only be available during summer break the next four years.
brewQuote Reply
Rachel Hurd-Wood is very cool, but … she's just not right for Dany, she's got a different chemistry.
I get the feeling people want to fit Dany into an actress, not the reverse.
U gotta fit the actress into Dany.
Dany is pretty plain if you think about it. I mean, she goes through some hardships, and her life is pretty complicated and sad, but it's all internal. She doesn't have a good dialogue or anyone to speak to about these things, after her brother gets crowned. I'm not even sure about her motivation. Why does she do all this? Couldn't she just be happy with her a billion freed slaves?
It's her destiny, she's fated to do what she needs to do. So she's a passive vessel. Therefore, they should get a very young porno actress for the part.
NaysayerQuote Reply
No ways. Her nose is too buttony. I can't have that in my soup.
NaysayerQuote Reply
tell that to helen of troy, the source of hundreds of thousands dead, fictitious or not, the cultural root of western civilization.
What if said aquatic dame was topless? I say AYE. The sword was merely an excuse to princess for the wet, errant quest.
NaysayerQuote Reply
mmmmm… was thinking that George RR Martin needs to finish his books so he can get started on his new sci fi novel about a porno booth in outer space. Not rushing him or anything. He's not my bitch, right? A lot of people hire other writers to finish their work, provided those writers available. Lynn Flewelling, I would hope is available, as she is a writer that resembles GRRM's style tremendously. Just worries, that's all. He should do like Dostoyevski and hire a young woman to type his stories. That's always a nice thing to go to work to.
NaysayerQuote Reply
Imogen Poots was always my first choice.
The other is Zoe Boyle . (the one in the bed)
I watched her in one of the "Poirot"s with David Suchet, and she looked very Dany to me.
@The_Rabbit01Quote Reply
Here is much better the photo, form the Ghost whisperer.
@The_Rabbit01Quote Reply
As much as I like Evanna Lynch's performance as Luna, I doubt if she could really capture Daenerys' fiery and compassionate spirit (as it evolves) — after all, she's quite close to Luna's character even in real life, with a high-pitched, quirky voice and somewhat strange manners.
Look-wise, she might be very good, with right styling. She does look very young, that's for sure. I was surprised when I checked she's already nearly 19.
SnowfellQuote Reply
Random thought:
Tower of the Hand should make a point to record the eye color of every character, great or small, and then GRRM himself could use their Website as a reference, which could speed up his writing…
NymeriaQuote Reply
I love Evanna (in the least stalker way possible) but here appeal is definitely not broad. Alot of people would consider her too ugly.
@WateredDownQuote Reply
Notably, the information wasn't part of the interview. GRRM didn't give her the information. She got it separately from HBO and just put it in the same article.
pualoQuote Reply
One problem: she's ugly as sin.
shadallionQuote Reply
All day I have been upset that Merchant is gone. Wow, she was such a … I don't know… but wow, so sad. Very sad. I'm sad. I'll get over it. So sad she's gone. I shed a tear.
Sorry about this post, I didn't get much sleep last night being sad about this. I was really getting used to her as Dany even though I have never seen an episode. This is in my imagination. A tear rolled down my nose.
Then, now, I have to read the books again without Merchant in mind. I'm sad. This is a sad day. Big salty tears.
NaysayerQuote Reply
Wow…
shadallionQuote Reply
I like, she gets my vote.
shadallionQuote Reply
I'm sorry, but Emma Watson is one of the WORST actors I've ever seen try to act.
LexQuote Reply
Calculon was making a joke.
LexQuote Reply
That's my Dany.
LexQuote Reply
She's nearly the same age as Tamzin Merchant.
LexQuote Reply
She is a hottie.
shadallionQuote Reply
I am pretty happy that HBO is replacing the role of Dany. Nothing againt Tamzin, I am just hoping for someone who can really do an amazing job.
Even if she looks very good for Dany as described in the books, the TV series will need a stronger, possibly a little more classically beautiful looking actress to really nail the role. Reading the books you get so much of your empathy for the characters from their thoughts and inner goings-on that you can't really get from TV. I think Merchant would do a decent job as Dany but I don't see her knocking it out of the park… the actress for this role is so key as she needs to be compelling and loved to keep casual fans interested and excited by her storyline, as it is so unconnected from the rest of the series. Viewers who are new to the books have to just love Dany's character from the start, then they will be hooked, we get many seasons, and everybody is happy.
RyanQuote Reply
You realize she's playing a ghost in that shot, right?
But I don't see Dany there either. Just not because she's not attractive.
Josh ParkerQuote Reply
Gemma Ward would definately do it for me…..a couple of pounds ago anyways. Here she truky looks like an alien beauty. http://ss11i01.stream.ip-only.net/images/blog/ima…
covenantQuote Reply
Lex will not be happy with anyone other than Elena Satine, apparently. Talk about setting yourself up for disappointment, eh?
@AxechuckerQuote Reply
I think after Dance he should write something else as way to clear out the writing pipes, rather than trudging through. In the long run it might actually make the next novel come out faster.
@WateredDownQuote Reply
I hold true to the belief that that Quote should be used at any relevent time in common conversation. I applaud you.
As for Holly Grainger, I wouldn't be disapointed if she was cast. She looks young and vulnerable, but there's something in her eyes that makes me think she could command too.
So far there hasn't been anyone that I'm die-hard behind for Dany.
Phoenix_tornQuote Reply
I can see it. Especially since Dany is often wearing a long braid in A Storm of Swords.
LexQuote Reply
I never said this. I'd be happy with a wide range of actresses, and was happy with Tamzin. However, I think this Zoe Boyle girl is flat out unattractive.
LexQuote Reply
Just because I like Elena Satine, does not mean you should go around putting words in my mouth. I never claimed that she was the only choice I'd be happy with. I doubt she'll even get the role. I just like her… a lot.
LexQuote Reply
Don't like her. She looks like a zombie to me. I hate to start this whole thing up again, but she's not attractive.
LexQuote Reply
You at least need to say why not.
LexQuote Reply
I, like everyone else has a personal favorite for Dany, unfortunately most of our choices are not realistic, Ms. Ward is a big name model, Ms. Poots is too busy over the next year, Emma Watson has college, Rachel Hurd-Wood is to expensive and so forth. The actress chosen will either be unknown, a up and comer or one that has a small body of work. I also think we need to stop with the negative remarks on many of the choices presented by those posting.
TysnowQuote Reply
Ygritte oughta be a strong chick with a low center of gravity. Definitely not the grade b models I've been seeing suggested here. We need a strong actress with rough edges but a certain sexy charm. I wonder what our Jon Snow will look like with a woman. He seems ever uncomfortable in his own skin.
SteveQuote Reply
Why bother? We don't have access to good, real lists of actresses. But it's kind of pathetic what I'm seeing. No, not pathetic…. extremely predictable and unimaginative.
It is kind of funny that someone would get offended that their championed actress is getting the thumbs down.
*shrug* I am amused.
SteveQuote Reply
If we shoot in Morocco, the 'limit' is 16 years old no matter what the nationality is.
SteveQuote Reply
By the time it gets broadcasted, she'll be 18.
Dude, that is sick and wrong. Boobs.
SteveQuote Reply
Jealous? I like you too.
LexQuote Reply
I'm with you on Poots, Rabbit.
She's got a similar look to Harry Lloyd (at least here:http://www.interviewmagazine.com/files/2009/02/11… ) and has the Nina Gold factor as well.
Of course, I'll adjust to whomever HBO chooses, but if it were an office pool as to who they're considering, I'd put her high on the list.
paulgudeQuote Reply
I'm with you on Poots, Rabbit.
She's got a similar look to Harry Lloyd (at least here:http://www.interviewmagazine.com/files/2009/02/11… ) and has the Nina Gold factor as well.
Of course, I'll adjust to whomever HBO chooses, but if it were an office pool as to who they're considering, I'd put her high on the list.
paulgudeQuote Reply
Aww, man. I hadn't seen that before.
paulgudeQuote Reply
Good stuff. I like Scodelario's look. I've never seen her before.
Funny about Tudors, I completely disagree. It started so well, and now it's quite bad.
I think that the costumes have been exquisite for the entire run, so that's nothing new. The script this season is terrible, mostly because the story is over, there's nothing left to say. This season should have been half a season. TM plays an awful character. They will probably slather pathos all over her once she is prosecuted.
The Tudors has just run out of tricks. I watched the entire run with interest until season 4's premier episode.
SteveQuote Reply
How can I take you seriously when the first sentence is "Oh no….I always thought Tamzin was perfect."?
It's a rhetorical question.
SteveQuote Reply
Grrr. Except for the fact that she's not available? I didn't notice that.
On that note, though, the cast list of the movie "Chatroom" may give some more hints of potential actresses.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1319704/
It was cast by Nina gold in 2010 and a lot of the characters were teenagers, though most of the actors were a wee bit older.
paulgudeQuote Reply
I think we want someone who looks unique, beautiful in her own way, and can act. Even if many people want their favorite actress or whatever. I am looking forward to see what HBO picks. The guesses here have only been embarrassing for everyone involved.
SteveQuote Reply
Women that look like that are a dime a dozen. But if they can also act and are not mildly retarded? Then you're talking.
SteveQuote Reply
My top choice for Dany at this time is Elena Satine, I would be more than happy with many of the actresses that have been mentioned on this thread, but I feel the vast majority of them will be unavailable or not considered for many reasons. Ms. Satine meets the criteria I have listed below as the qualities the actress chosen should possess
.
1. Stunningly beautiful even ethereal in a way.
2. She is young enough at 20 years old and can look younger with makeup. TM is 22 by the way.
3. She can act and has the pedigree.
4. She is lithe with very narrow hips, slender legs, shoulders and arms.
5. She would be within HBO's budget plan
6. She is a model so has the mental and physical training to change her attitude and demeanor as the series progresses from young and innocent to sensual and experienced.
7. Just about every male in Westeros would desire her or fall in love with her.
8. She won't have a problem with nudity and sex scenes.
9. She would be able to have the commanding presence and authority neccessary in later years that Dany begins to show in the books.
10. She looks like a queen, which must come from the noble blood that courses through her veins.
TysnowQuote Reply
The crux of this is the fact that people want Dany to look a certain way, period. Like Lex wants her to be knock-down drag-out gorgeous, and wants Elena Satine (who is obviously knock-down drag-out gorgeous) and apparently no one else will do.
Others want Dany to have a more ethereal, delicate, child-like beauty, which is where the Tamzin Merchant / Imogen Poots / Zoe Boyle crowd comes from. I'm in agreement that, for me, Daenerys should have a childlike quality which I do not see in Satine. But if she wins the role it will be for her acting merit–can she portray Daenerys Targaryen?–not her looks.
Just like anyone who nabs the role. I will hope Lex and others give whoever is cast at least a chance to prove she can be Dany without going "I hate her based on her looks."
I doubt it though.
@AxechuckerQuote Reply
My hope is completely the opposite: I hope it was Merchant's personal decision, because if it was HBO's, that either means that:
A) Merchant was a bad casting decision who neither the showrunners nor the director realised even after a long casting process and the filming of the pilot, meaning they are the wrong people for the job, and a lot more of bad decisions coud come down the line if they remain in charge.
B) Merchant nailed the part, but still the suits for whatever reason decided to interfere in the showrunners' decisions, meaning they've showed no respect, nor confidence, nor trust to them and a willingness to intervene in the creative process, which potentially could take the show in a different direction, away fron the spirit of the books.
DennaiQuote Reply
Young women in "Chatroom" casted by Nina Gold.
Imogen Poots:http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1782299/ (also in Hello Darkness)
Ophelia Lovibond:http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1166041/ (Also in London Boulevard)
Hannah Murray:http://www.imdb.com/name/nm2356940/
I'm not familiar with those last two. Are they possibilities?
EmilyQuote Reply
She would make an excellent extra on the show.
SteveQuote Reply
Here's a few more girls (and birh dates) that have been previously cast by Nina Gold
Emily Spires-1986
Scarlett Sabet-red head, late teens, early 20s
Ophelia Lovibond-1986
Eleanor Tomlinson-1992
Kate O’Flynn-1986
Nina Dobrev-1989 (currently on Vampire Diaries so not likely)
Laura Brent (Narnia)
Phoenix_tornQuote Reply
You know, Anna Popplewell (Susan from Narnia) was cast in "Daniel Deronda" by Nina Gold, and she was born in 1988. Same issue with her as a couple of other names floating around, though.
Some take the "aging up" of Dany to mean that the character is going to be older than thirteen but still not quite a woman, played by an actress who is old enough to do nudity and sex scenes, but youthful enough in appearance to play younger (15 in the leaked pilot script, most likely to be left ambiguous) .
Others seem to be under the impression that Dany is going to be aged so that the character herself is going to appear to be in her late teens or even early twenties.
This is important, because there are all the things Viserys says about Dany:
"She's too skinny," Viserys said.
"Are you sure that Khal Drogo likes his women this young?"
"Let him see that you have breasts. Gods know, you have little enough as it is."
Some seem to be making the argument that if you age Dany up to a certain level, then you can also abandon these descriptions about the character, allowing for a more buxom "womanly" Dany, and not the scrawny girl ridiculed by her brother in the books.
As anyone familiar with my take on the whole Dany/Drogo relationship is no doubt tired of hearing by now, I'm in the "Young Dany" camp. I think making her closer to being an adult lessens the impact of what happens to her, which cheapens some of the journey she goes on throughout the rest of the books.
That being said, I want to point out that of the three lines I listed only, "Are you sure that Khal Drogo likes his women this young?" need be tied to her age. I agree that you *can* claim the other two are related, but if they do end up making the character of Dany more of a woman than she is in the books there's absolutely no reason why they couldn't cast a woman that Viserys thinks is "too skinny" for Drogo.
I'm wondering if the announcement that Tamzin is out appearing in Mo Ryan's story means that they may be close to announcing the new Dany. It'd be nice to get back to getting used to whomever they pick, and put the speculation behind us.
paulgudeQuote Reply
I second this assertion. In addition, they should attach up to 10 representative lines by the character to remind him of their accent.
Critical_GeekQuote Reply
[quote]This is important, because there are all the things Viserys says about Dany:
"She's too skinny," Viserys said.
"Are you sure that Khal Drogo likes his women this young?"
"Let him see that you have breasts. Gods know, you have little enough as it is." [/quote]
On the other hand, they could just rewrite those lines to match the actress they choose since they are redoing the scene anyway. A better reason would be the escape from the 7 kingdoms time line, but that just means she needs to be "slightly younger than Jon Snow and Rob".
Critical_GeekQuote Reply
1. She has red hair.
2. If you look closely at her nostrils, you can see up all the way into her brain.
SteveQuote Reply
They COULD…. But is there any reason to make her older?
sjweningsQuote Reply
Gemma Ward also meets the personal criteria I believe the actress chosen for Dany should possess, I just think she is too big a catch and HBO won't be able to meet her price.
TysnowQuote Reply
Okay, I'm running into an intense debate issue, obviously. I'm trying to do this as a straight post rather than a reply.
It's too bad Imogen Poots has a full plate. She's been a favorite of mine.
I still think looking at things cast by Nina Gold in the past might give us an idea of who one or two of the other actresses GRRM mentioned were. A high percentage of the current cast was cast by Nina Gold in something before:
Sean Bean (Red Riding)
Harry Lloyd (The Devil's Whore)
Mark Addy (It's a Wonderful Afterlife, Red Riding, Barney's Version)
Jamie Campbell Bower (London Boulevard)
Ron Donachie (Made of Honor, Beautiful Creatures)
Michelle Fairley (Chatroom)
Iain Glen (Beautiful Creatures)
Lena Headey (Imagine Me & You)
Richard Madden (Chatroom)
Joseph Mawle (Red Riding)
Rory McCann (Hot Fuzz)
Ian McNeice (Rome, The Final Curtain)
Richard Ridings (Amazing Grace)
Donald Sumpter (Eastern Promises, London Boulevard, Einstein and Eddington )
I'm not saying it's foolproof, but looking at a movie with a young cast like Chatroom may give us some ideas about potential actresses for Dany.
Incidentally, the "Nina Gold Factor" is the reason that I'm of the not-as-popular opinion that Jim Broadbent may be the mystery "world class thespian" on deck for Maester Pycelle. He's been in NINE movies cast by Nina Gold, and has won Oscars and BAFTAs.
I do like the idea of Roy Dotrice getting a role in Game of Thrones, having been the voice of the books and having worked with GRRM in the past. However, after seeing his performance in Hellboy II: The Golden Army, I'd much rather see him as Maester Aemon.
paulgudeQuote Reply
You said that much more succinctly than I was going to.
Here's what GRRM said about Dany's age at the time Tamzin was cast:
"It's no secret that HBO's Dany will start out older than Dany does in the book; that was a change that had to be made, if we wanted to keep the sex scenes, and David and Dan and I were all agreed that the sex scenes were essential. Tamzin can play much younger than her actual age (as she does when playing Katheryn) and her sex scenes on THE TUDORS were as hot as anything I've ever seen on TV."
Catherine Howard was anywhere between 15 to 20 years old at the time Tamzin portrayed her. So what would you consider "much younger" than 22?
There are two reasons to age her.
1) You want to age her just enough to ensure you get the go-ahead for the sex scenes.
2) You want to cast a specific actress who would be too old to play the character otherwise.
At the moment, #1 appears to be the motivation for GRRM and D&D. When you hear GRRM talk about it, it definitely seems like a compromise was reached by casting someone who could play younger.
I think all too often people are quick to jump on the "you're shooting a TV show, not the books there are going to be changes!" line to justify their wish for a change that doesn't need to be made.
Again, though, there is a huge difference between being inflexible to changes to the book and wanting to wait to see what HBO does before coming to a conclusion about what they're going to change.
paulgudeQuote Reply
lol "How can I take you seriously if all you do is bash other people's opinion?" … ok, that's what I wanted to answer before I read another few of your comments on this post. (<–yeah, I know what you're thinking.) In a way you were always right with what you said, except of course, Tamzin WAS perfect. At least where looks and chraisma was concernd. I never saw any of the pilot of course. ;) But I would have loved to see her act as Dany.
And Rachel, she really would be a better Lyanna or Margaery, I would think now. I'm curious about Tamzin's replacement. I hope it's not any of those 'Fan-Favourits' or suggestions.
SchlafmohnQuote Reply
I think Paul Gude is thinking along the right lines for the Dany casting. Or it will be someone quite fresh out of drama school like Kit Harington.
UK actresses that may get seen for the role, who are of a similar age/experience/acting chops to Tamzin Merchant (regardless of whether they have the "look", they are actresses who could make the role their own) would be:
Imogen Poots
Holly Grainger
Jaime Winstone
Nichola Burley
Hannah Murray
Amy Beth Hayes (she is 28 but played a teenager last year in E4's Misfits with a graphic (and wierd) sex scene viewable via google if you're interested…)
Aisling Loftus
Sadie Pickering
to list a few…
ScreenterrierQuote Reply
I'm with Lex on this one, she's pretty much the definition of overacting.
Avalanche3319Quote Reply
You certainly do!
@AxechuckerQuote Reply
You know, Anna Popplewell (Susan from Narnia) was cast in "Daniel Deronda" by Nina Gold, and she was born in 1988. Same issue with her as a couple of other names floating around, though.
Some take the "aging up" of Dany to mean that the character is going to be older than thirteen but still not quite a woman, played by an actress who is old enough to do nudity and sex scenes, but youthful enough in appearance to play younger (15 in the leaked pilot script, most likely to be left ambiguous) .
Others seem to be under the impression that Dany is going to be aged so that the character herself is going to appear to be in her late teens or even early twenties.
This is important, because there are all the things Viserys says about Dany:
"She's too skinny," Viserys said.
"Are you sure that Khal Drogo likes his women this young?"
"Let him see that you have breasts. Gods know, you have little enough as it is."
Some seem to be making the argument that if you age Dany up to a certain level, then you can also abandon these descriptions about the character, allowing for a more buxom "womanly" Dany, and not the scrawny girl ridiculed by her brother in the books.
As anyone familiar with my take on the whole Dany/Drogo relationship is no doubt tired of hearing by now, I'm in the "Young Dany" camp. I think making her closer to being an adult lessens the impact of what happens to her, which cheapens some of the journey she goes on throughout the rest of the books.
That being said, I want to point out that of the three lines I listed only, "Are you sure that Khal Drogo likes his women this young?" need be tied to her age. I agree that you *can* claim the other two are related, but if they do end up making the character of Dany more of a woman than she is in the books there's absolutely no reason why they couldn't cast a woman that Viserys thinks is "too skinny" for Drogo.
I'm wondering if the announcement that Tamzin is out appearing in Mo Ryan's story means that they may be close to announcing the new Dany. It'd be nice to get back to getting used to whomever they pick, and put the speculation behind us.
paulgudeQuote Reply
She's the new William Shatner.
LexQuote Reply
She is 22. And looks older than Tamzin. Its not the age anyway, its how old you actually look. I even thought Tamzin was a bit of a stretch, so no from me.
sjweningsQuote Reply
Another actress, fresh out of drama school, who looks young with a similar build to Tamzin:
Florence Hall 1
Florence Hall 2
Florence Hall 3
ScreenterrierQuote Reply
I actually could see that work looks-wise,at least -but she's definitely too expensive at the moment and I'm also not sure she would agree to a role with quite a bit of sex scenes and the (most probably) required nudity that goes along with them.
It's not gonna happen.
NoodlesQuote Reply
Could do, could do …
Hear Me RoarQuote Reply
Hannah Murray isn't Dan! However, she is perfect for Ygritte. http://images.google.se/imgres?imgurl=http://ia.m… http://threesecondsofdeadair.files.wordpress.com/2009/09/cassie.jpg
David TysklindQuote Reply
Love her
shadallionQuote Reply
Not in the Nina Gold's cast list, but interesting young and delicate actress who would be a good choice for Daenerys:
Victoria Bavister
@raijapQuote Reply
She's the new William Shatner.
LexQuote Reply
this is the best suggestion I've seen so far. I like her.
NymeriaQuote Reply
I've never really been into the Dany actress hunt myself. For some reason I've been much more interested in other characters. I personally thought that look-wise Tamzin was great. I wasn't familiar with her acting skills so I really couldn't for an opinion on that basis. now that she is gone and I have been perusing the names on the threas I have to add my voice to the Gemma Ward camp. She exudes Daenarys to me. Other that Gemma Florence Hall wold be my second choice based on looks. Really not a fan of Luna Lovegood for dany though ;P
On a side note, has anyone else noticed James Callis on the last two episodes of Flashforward? When I first saw him I thought "Hey that guy looks a little like James Callis". It took me until the second episode until I realizes it actually was Callis. Without giving too much away, its a great little role for him and he shows his ENORMOUS range with it. I've seen Callis in three roles that I can remember. Baltar, Merlin (the horrible Sci-Fi movie that he nevertheless did a great job reimagining the Merlin role), and now Flashforward, All three roles are absolutely completely different. The guy would make a killer Littlefinger in my book.
Lord Ned's HeadQuote Reply
Ich just want to remind you that we know, which age they want Dany to be in the series, because in the leaked pilot script it's said Dany is 15. (page 11)
At least we know it, if they don't change their mind.
BarellusQuote Reply
Good suggestion! Like her, too.
@The_Rabbit01Quote Reply
Do you have any more info on her? It's kind of hard to find anything about her… I just watched the first clip from Jonathan Creek – The Judas Tree where she plays young Emily and I must say, I was disappointed. But it could just be the make-up and hairdo and the girly acting required for the role… so I would like to see something else…
NymeriaQuote Reply
nothing more to declare really considering all things the one i liked the most
@JehphgQuote Reply
Just looking around on imdb, here's a list of girls I think could pull off the look for
Dany. With most of them, I'm not sure about their acting chops, or if any of them could pull off a British accent, or if they are even available. Then there's the willingness to do sex scenes. I was just going by looks and age:
Krista Kalmus (http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1711156/) – No idea how old she is, but she looks about the right age, and she's a stunner with piercing eyes. She's got some experience too, although I don't know how big her roles were. No idea where she's from, but I'm guessing she's American, which could be a problem.
Nastassia Markiewicz (http://www.imdb.com/name/nm3331825/) – A 22 year-old Canadian beauty, and probably not experienced enough, despite being around film her whole life. I just liked her fiery, spirited gaze and slightly ethnic look. She also looks younger than her age.
Amanda Seyfried – Perhaps too old at 24, I think she can still pull off a young look. She's also recently worked with HBO (Big Love) and there's a possibility that she may not be returning to the show. She's also stunning, at least in these photos: http://www.comicbookmovie.com/images/users/upload… http://images2.fanpop.com/images/photos/2800000/A…
Unfortunately, she's starting to become sought after, and I doubt she's trained to speak with an accent anyway.
Kate Lang Johnson (http://www.imdb.com/media/rm4103966464/nm1567202) – Another American who's probably too old at 25 and likely can't do an accent, she looked so Dany-like in this particular photo, that I just had to post the link. She's had a lot of roles, but most of them look to be of the hot babe/popular girl variety. I seriously doubt she could pull the Dany off, but that one photo just screamed Dany at me.
While I doubt any of these girls are realistic, I'm curious to see what anyone else might think of them for the Dany look.
I wasn't real big on Tamzin Merchant as Dany looks-wise, but just doing a little searching, I can see how hard it is to find that combination of beauty, acting chops, a convincing English accent, and being comfortable with nude scenes while being of legal age and still having a youthful appearance. And then, you have to worry about availability and budget. Good luck with all that! While I would classify Tamzin as merely "pretty" as opposed to "beautiful" (in some photos, she's perhaps knocking on the door), she just may have been the best option out there. She could turn out to be very hard to replace.
I'm also wondering how others are renaming their links when they post comments. I tried using html to no avail.
Jaqen_HgharQuote Reply
Just looking around on imdb, here's a list of girls I think could pull off the look for
Dany. With most of them, I'm not sure about their acting chops, or if any of them could pull off a British accent, or if they are even available. Then there's the willingness to do sex scenes. I was just going by looks and age:
Krista Kalmus:http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1711156/ – No idea how old she is, but she looks about the right age, and she's a stunner with piercing eyes. She's got some experience too, although I don't know how big her roles were. No idea where she's from, but I'm guessing she's American.
Nastassia Markiewicz:http://www.imdb.com/name/nm3331825/ – A 22 year-old Canadian beauty, and probably not experienced enough, despite being around film her whole life. I just liked her fiery, spirited gaze and slightly ethnic look. She also looks younger than her age.
Amanda Seyfried – Perhaps too old at 24, I think she can still pull off a young look. She's also recently worked with HBO (Big Love) and there's a possibility that she may not be returning to the show. She's also stunning, at least in these photos: http://www.comicbookmovie.com/images/users/upload… http://images2.fanpop.com/images/photos/2800000/A…
Unfortunately, she's starting to become sought after, and I doubt she's trained to speak with an accent anyway.
Kate Lang Johnson:http://www.imdb.com/media/rm4103966464/nm1567202 – Another American who's probably too old at 25 and likely can't do an accent, she looked so Dany-like in this particular photo, that I just had to post the link. She's had a lot of roles, but most of them look to be of the hot babe/popular girl variety. I seriously doubt she could pull the Dany off, but that one photo just screamed Dany at me.
While I doubt any of these girls are realistic, I'm curious to see what anyone else might think of them for the Dany look.
I wasn't real big on Tamzin Merchant as Dany looks-wise, but just doing a little searching, I can see how hard it is to find that combination of beauty, acting chops, a convincing English accent, and being comfortable with nude scenes while being of legal age and still having a youthful appearance. And then, you have to worry about availability and budget. Good luck with all that! While I would classify Tamzin as merely "pretty" as opposed to "beautiful" (in some photos, she's perhaps knocking on the door), she just may have been the best option out there. She could turn out to be very hard to replace.
I'm also wondering how others are renaming their links when they post comments. I tried using html to no avail.
Jaqen_HgharQuote Reply
Just looking around on imdb, here's a list of girls I think could pull off the look for
Dany. With most of them, I'm not sure about their acting chops, or if any of them could pull off a British accent, or if they are even available. Then there's the willingness to do sex scenes. I was just going by looks and age:
Krista Kalmus:http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1711156/ – No idea how old she is, but she looks about the right age, and she's a stunner with piercing eyes. She's got some experience too, although I don't know how big her roles were. No idea where she's from, but I'm guessing she's American.
Nastassia Markiewicz:http://www.imdb.com/name/nm3331825/ – A 22 year-old Canadian beauty, and probably not experienced enough, despite being around film her whole life. I just liked her fiery, spirited gaze and slightly ethnic look. She also looks younger than her age.
Amanda Seyfried – Perhaps too old at 24, I think she can still pull off a young look. She's also recently worked with HBO (Big Love) and there's a possibility that she may not be returning to the show. She's also stunning, at least in these photos: http://www.comicbookmovie.com/images/users/upload… http://images2.fanpop.com/images/photos/2800000/A…
Unfortunately, she's starting to become sought after, and I doubt she's trained to speak with an accent anyway.
Kate Lang Johnson:http://www.imdb.com/media/rm4103966464/nm1567202 – Another American who's probably too old at 25 and likely can't do an accent, she looked so Dany-like in this particular photo, that I just had to post the link. She's had a lot of roles, but most of them look to be of the hot babe/popular girl variety. I seriously doubt she could pull the Dany off, but that one photo just screamed Dany at me.
While I doubt any of these girls are realistic, I'm curious to see what anyone else might think of them for the Dany look.
I wasn't real big on Tamzin Merchant as Dany looks-wise, but just doing a little searching, I can see how hard it is to find that combination of beauty, acting chops, a convincing English accent, and being comfortable with nude scenes while being of legal age and still having a youthful appearance. And then, you have to worry about availability and budget. Good luck with all that! While I would classify Tamzin as merely "pretty" as opposed to "beautiful" (in some photos, she's perhaps knocking on the door), she just may have been the best option out there. She could turn out to be very hard to replace.
I'm also wondering how others are renaming their links when they post comments. I tried using html to no avail.
Jaqen_HgharQuote Reply
LINKS:
Name it
@The_Rabbit01Quote Reply
Knew it would not work, sorry Jaqen
@The_Rabbit01Quote Reply
Put the name of the link after the link itself, then close it with
@The_Rabbit01Quote Reply
She just doesn't look like a Dragon, she looks like a cherub. I have always imagined the Targ's to exude power and beauty with their faces and bodies. When a Targ entered a room the aura eminating from them was just overpowering. Elena, Gemma, Kaya give off that aura, the vast majority of the choices just don't, I am sorry, but thats it in a nutshell. Dany is young, but not delicate or fragile, I mean for Christ sakes, look at how strong and powerful she becomes in a short time, she is no soft flower period. When I read the books for the first time I did not see a soft, innocent fragile girl, she is a Targ and knows it, it was only Viserys that kept her power at bay, once he was out of the way, she became an unstopping force.
My opinion is that she comes into her own before Games finishes, it's the Dany from the last half of Games through the rest of the books that does it for me, thats the actress I am looking for.
TysnowQuote Reply
i'm still with the looks of florence hall, although i don't know about the other requirements
@JehphgQuote Reply
I've mentioned the pilot script before while discussing this. It's been routinely dismissed or simply ignored so I've stopped using it to back up my argument. I think that once Sean Bean (50 at the time, now 51) was cast as 40-year-old Ned and Rory McCann was cast as the Hound at 41 even though it says 35 in the leaked script people have stopped seeing it as an authority on this issue.
There's also the idea that it was written as 15 before GRRM and D&D had whatever conversation that prompted the age change. I personally don't believe that, though. I think this issue was probably one of the first things they worked out when thinking about adapting this for television.
Again, my guess is that 15 is the age in the script, but they'll avoid pinning it down to any specific age, simply casting someone who looks young.
One thing that I really found interesting in one of the recent interviews with GRRM is that they were casting actors older than the ages in the script because people wouldn't have taken care of themselves as much.
It made my concerns about Fairley pretty much go away.
paulgudeQuote Reply
I would definitely be OK with Florence Hall looks-wise. She doesn't have a lot of acting credits, but that doesn't necessarily mean she couldn't handle the role.
@The_Rabbit01, I tried using the [urlJaqen_HgharQuote Reply
Here is a closeup of the Dany bust approved by Mr. Martin Dany bust she doesn't look like a fifteen year old too me and here is a photoshop of Elena Satine and Gemma Ward and also Kaya Scodelario and finally Imogen Poots
TysnowQuote Reply
TEXT</a
With a closing > at the end, have left it off above so it (hopefully) displays.
ScreenterrierQuote Reply
Of those I like Johnson the best. I've never liked Seyfried in anything I've seen her in and at the risk of sounding harsh I think if you put her on a steady diet of cheeseburgers she would make an excellent Lollys.
go_falconsQuote Reply
Jaqen,
I could not help you with the links, but I can answer your first question.
I would go with Markiewicz for Dany, the others look more like a younger versions of Cersei.
@The_Rabbit01Quote Reply
I, for one, am happy to wait for HBO's decision for the replacement, and then decide how I feel about the actress. Most of the suggestions are based on looks, which is fine, but the truth is that LOOKS ARE ONLY A SMALL PART OF THIS ROLE. The actress must be capable of Dany's range (innocence to resilience to command) and must have a strong presence (which often doesn't come through in photos) that translates to film well.
I'd much rather go for an actress that doesn't quite look the part but nails the role than the opposite. The fact that a lot of people are suggesting models and the like worries me.
GeorgeQuote Reply
I thought you guys wanted 'hot,' not average ginger :P
what's in a name?Quote Reply
I trust HBO's choices on casting talented actors and actresses, but casting based on looks is a fun game, too.
Dany shouldn't be someone with obvious sex appeal. She is supposed to be more innocent, especially in the first season. Hopefully we get someone strikingly beautiful as opposed to just 'hot' plastic trash.
what's in a name?Quote Reply
http://www.google.com/support/blogger/bin/answer.py?hl=en&answer=42069
Under Links on the above page
ScreenterrierQuote Reply
Multi-millionairess actress with tens of millions in the bank, probably wanting to do something different after spending a decade in a fantasy project, signs for a few hundred grand per year to a fantasy TV project expected to last a decade.
I'm not seeing it, personally.
Adam WhiteheadQuote Reply
TM didn't look that young to me and ES looks even older. I mean seriously…do you really think Elena Satine looks 15??? It doesn't matter how old they actually are it's how old they -look- that matters.
The Winter RoseQuote Reply
Agreed!
The Winter RoseQuote Reply
I agree with Lex. I don't see Dany here. She doesn't do it for me. There's such a haggard-ness in her appearance. She looks so worn in all the pics. There's nothing fresh and inspiring about her, and Dany needs to command presence.
The Winter RoseQuote Reply
I love Amanda Seyfried. She's Lilly F-king Kane. But no to Americans.
EmilyQuote Reply
I trust HBO's choices on casting talented actors and actresses, but casting based on looks is a fun game, too.
Dany shouldn't be someone with obvious sex appeal. She is supposed to be more innocent, especially in the first season. Hopefully we get someone strikingly beautiful as opposed to just 'hot' plastic trash.
what's in a name?Quote Reply
It's not really going to be a problem unless HBO actually casts a model. We see this happen every casting round, though. People latch on to a favorite and then ignore all arguments against that person being cast. It's actually interesting to watch the logic leaps people make to justify who they cast.
Of course, there's always a chance that HBO has decided to go a different way with her in the series, but again, I'm always against *assuming* they're going to deviate from the book when we don't know exactly how HBO is going to handle something.
paulgudeQuote Reply
Yeah, I really don't get this Elena Satine business. She does not look 15 people!
I don't care how old she actually is – she looks like she's in her mid 20's.
The Winter RoseQuote Reply
She's really only just starting out with TV work, lots of Stage. She's just been in an episode of Doctors which you can watch on BBC iplayer at the moment if you're in the UK: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00s7sfg Episode 19 Idle Hands
She's probably not experienced enough for a major role like Dany – but then they did cast Kit Harington.
ScreenterrierQuote Reply
Never heard Ophelia Lovibond, but there is no denying that she if a very pretty girl. If she is a good actresses she could be good choice for Dany. Hannah Murray I do recognize, I'm a bit of fan of the English teen drama series Skins were she had one of the main roles for the series first two seasons. I like her allot. She is very talented I think, bit as I said above, she isn't Dany, however, she is perfect for Ygritte I think.
David TysklindQuote Reply
Ophelia Lovibond: She was mentioned above but in a reply to another comment. I have never seen her in anything but I thought she had a good look for Dany, and apparently she has been casted by Nina Gold before. http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1166041/
David TysklindQuote Reply
Ophelia Lovibond is 24 and much more of a woman, whereas Hannah Murray is 21 and has some of the same non-traditional qualities that some people disliked in Tamzin.
So, a lot of this comes down to something we don't know: Why was Tamzin recast? If it's because the studio wants to go a different direction, Ophelia may have the differences they wanted. If it was Tamzin's decision, Hannah Murray might be a suitable replacement.
Regardless of our individual opinions about their suitability, I wouldn't be surprised if both Ophelia Lovibond and Hannah Murray were at least auditioned for the role.
@sgnpQuote Reply
I'm still epically obsessed with Elena Satine!!!!!!!
JakeQuote Reply
She's got the acting experience to pull off the role too. Could definitely be a contender.
ScreenterrierQuote Reply
Another one to add to the mix. Currently filming a Nina Gold cast TV drama for Channel 4 is 23 year old newcomer Emerald Fennell
http://unitedagents.co.uk/emerald-fennell
ScreenterrierQuote Reply
http://www.20th-century-sex.com/stars2/natalie-dormer/natalie-dormer-16.jpg
xavierQuote Reply
Since she was a serious fan contender to play Cersei I can't imagine how anyone could see her in the role of someone half the queen's age. She could be a fantastic Arianne Martell or maybe even Asha Greyjoy.
go_falconsQuote Reply
I agree that acting is obviously the most important part, however, looks do matter too. Honestly, some of the suggestions that have been put forth here are women who look in there mid-20's and not a girl of 15. No matter how awesome an actress the person may be, if they really don't look the age, I am not going to be able to suspend my disbelief and that will take me out of the experience. And for Dany, her youth IS an important factor. It makes her struggle and her growth that much more compelling. She's a character still coming into her own. It helps you first empathize and then respect her. You don't get the same impact by having her be 20 years old. It's just takes away too much from that character.
As for the models, I never said that they should be cast, but that Gemma Ward and Lily Cole have the look that I see for Dany. However, that being said, I was impressed with Lily Cole in Dr. Parnasuss and feel she has potential.
The Winter RoseQuote Reply
I ll take that with a grain of salt (because it is not officialy confirmed) but it seems that auditions for Dany are taking place in New Zeland, too.
I got an answer from a fan on Facebook Game of Thrones site
@The_Rabbit01Quote Reply
I LOVE Natalie Dormer and wanted her for Cersei, but she is really too old to play Dany.
shadallionQuote Reply
I feel the same way about the youth issue. A near-child thrust into a dangerous world of adults is a MUCH different story than a young woman in the same circumstances. It's ten times more uncomfortable and really unpleasant situations are something GRRM does best.
I think people might be thinking the age of the actress playing Dany is going to match too closely with the in-show age of the character. I admit that GRRM mentioned that the character of Dany had to be aged up, but it's very possible that he's talking about the 13 to 15 jump we see in the leaked pilot script.
I honestly think that a lot of this comes from a need to normalize the situation so it somehow becomes a bit more "okay" than it really is. This is a point that we keep arguing on the board, and I doubt it will stop even when we watch the finished product.
Again, I think they may deal with this issue by simply not putting a number to Dany's actual age in the series, letting the audience draw their conclusions from the actress's portrayal.
It's not that I'd stay away from the series if they reinvent Dany as a buxom college-aged young woman played by a buxom college-aged young woman, but I'd be surprised if they go that route.
That's the main thing, it would be a reinvention, and an unnecessary one. People constantly say that we need to get used to changes, and I agree. However, in this case the change isn't necessary unless someone is trying to accommodate a certain actress in this role. It's the difference between the mindset of an agent trying to make a role work at all costs for their client verses a casting director narrowing down from hundreds of choices.
Again, to be perfectly clear, I was an HBO drama fan way before I was a fan of ASoIaF. I know that they're out to make a show people will watch, and I know that show is going to be good. I'll be able to separate my love for the books for whatever the series ends up being.
@sgnpQuote Reply
But she does start fragile. Viserys does keep her down and sure, he does repress that aspect of her, and yes it's there, but that starts the beginning Dany as someone vunerable, timid and delicate. Yes she evolves into something more, but you need that transition. You can't just have one aspect of her. Watching that transformation is what is so impacting about the character. You need someone who can do both.
The Winter RoseQuote Reply
Oh wow… I like! Best suggestion I've seen so far looks-wise. Haven't seen her in anything, so I can't say for her talent. But based on appearance, this, to me, is the right look for Dany.
The Winter RoseQuote Reply
Over at Westeros they are posting alot about one Izabella Miko Iza when I was looking at the pics I thought she was in her teens, then I read she is 28. She does however have that ethereal, regal beauty and she is like 5'3" which may explain one reason why she still looks like a teen, but then again will she still look that young in 6 years.
TysnowQuote Reply
Imogen Poots starts filming a movie this summer (some vampire flick), so I guess she is out of the running.
TysnowQuote Reply
Here is the link to Ms. Miko's resume over at IMDB Izabella
TysnowQuote Reply
Kaya begins filming Wuthering heights in June, so if that has a 6 week shoot or longer she might be out of the running too, though one report has filming starting in like 2-3 weeks. She still might be available if the mid May start date for WH is correct.
TysnowQuote Reply
Maybe with Seeker being cancelled they are down under auditioning a few of the cast for Games roles.
I can see Craig Parker as Bronn.
TysnowQuote Reply
Kaya Scoldario is actually closer to what I'd imagined Lyanna Stark to look like..but she'd be interesting.
skylarkQuote Reply
Yeah I saw.
I like her, but I think her age would be problem, despise almost perfect Dany – look.
And the second thing, I do no nothing about her aczing abbility.
@The_Rabbit01Quote Reply
I wonder if anyone thinks Holliday Grainger – who is on the cusp of a major film career and I'm sure would be considered for the role – looks more Danyish in this latest photo: http://www.nylonmag.com/albumslideshow.php?albid=…
ScreenterrierQuote Reply
I wonder if anyone thinks Holliday Grainger – who is on the cusp of a major film career and I'm sure would be considered for the role – looks more Danyish in this latest photo: http://www.nylonmag.com/albumslideshow.php?albid=…
ScreenterrierQuote Reply
Someone suggested AnnaSophia Robb on an earlier post without mentioning her name only a pic of her. She is a great choice but I believe she would be unavailable has she is in demand for films and apparently prefers family fare.
TysnowQuote Reply
This was taken just a few months ago, she went brunette for "Murder on the Orient Express". To me she definitely looks like a High School (and oddly a bit like Megan Fox) I think lighter hair suits her best. She'd be a stunning blonde.
http://www.fanpop.com/spots/elena-satine/images/9…
LeahQuote Reply
I'd definitely say she looks younger in these photos than she did in those clips, which says to me it may be all in the way she plays it.
paulgudeQuote Reply
I find Elena slightly too sexy and not awkward enough for Dany. However she would be a DREAM choice for Shae. Right age/right look/sex appeal. Shae fits her like a glove!!
Marcus.Quote Reply
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