During its time on our screens, Game of Thrones broke a long list of TV records. It won many awards, sweeping the Emmys nearly every year it was eligible. It even took home some rather unethical accolades, such as being the most pirated show on television from 2012 through 2016. Now, even the stars are breaking world records.
In the case of Icelandic strongman Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson (who's probably the only man who can merit going by the nickname "Thor"), his record isn't even related to his time on the HBO series. However, wouldn't have landed the role of Gregor Clegane, a.k.a. The Mountain, had he not been one of the strongest people on the planet. The strongman and actor spent five seasons in Westeros, from seasons 4 through to 8, until he met his ultimate demise after falling into an inferno alongside his brother Sandor Clegane during the climactic Battle of King's Landing.
In 2020, Björnsson broke the all-time deadlift record when he lifted 501 kg (1,104 lb)—an absurdly ridiculous number, which translates to approximately the same weight as a typical grand piano.
But like The Mountain himself, Björnsson doesn't know when to stop. Breaking the record wasn't enough; he's now shattered his own record. On July 26, at the 2025 Eisenheart Black Competition in Germany, he decided to take things one step further by deadlifting 1,113 lb.
Following shattering his own world record, Björnsson took to Instagram to celebrate his incredible achievement. "505kg WORLD RECORD! History made again," he wrote. Watch the video below, and be in awe of how easy he makes it look:
Funnily enough, Australian Strength Coach, which documented the process with a behind-the-scenes clip, claimed that he achieved the record without using the technique that he had previously practiced. "He did it without using the technique he’s practiced for over a decade," they wrote. It's never too late to switch things up.
In between breaking world records, Björnsson continues to pursue occasional acting endeavors. Up next for him is a role in Masters of the Universe, a reboot of the cult classic 1980s movie, slated for release in June 2026. He plays antagonist Goat-Man in the upcoming movie. Some further casting has already been announced, including Nicholas Galitzine as iconic protagonist He-Man, Jared Leto as Skeletor, and Idris Elba as Men-At-Arms. This is an all-star cast if there ever was one.
Follow Björnsson on Instagram for more updates.
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