For the massive cast of Game of Thrones, the HBO series was more than just a hit show—it was a life-changing career breakthrough that transformed them into household names. But before they ruled Westeros, many of these actors were living completely different lives, working regular jobs and taking on smaller roles while dreaming of their big break. Here is a look at what five key stars were doing before they stepped onto the set of the epic fantasy.
Gwendoline Christie’s Unconventional Path
Gwendoline Christie, who brought the fierce and honorable Brienne of Tarth to life, faced significant challenges in her early career. Her height, which would later become an asset for her warrior role, was initially a hindrance in finding acting work. Before her breakthrough in Game of Thrones, Christie worked as a dog sitter and personal assistant for the actor Simon Callow.
She has spoken about the difficulties of this period, navigating odd jobs while trying to prove her talent in the acting world. Her role as Brienne of Tarth was her first major part, catapulting her to international recognition and leading to roles in major franchises like Star Wars and The Hunger Games.
Emilia Clarke’s Six Jobs and a Snow White Gig
Now known worldwide as the Mother of Dragons, Emilia Clarke’s life before Game of Thrones was far from royal. She has been open about the financial struggles she faced as a young actress. After graduating from drama school, Clarke worked six different jobs just to pay her rent while going to auditions.
In a 2018 speech, she revealed that her “biggest job” before landing the role of Daenerys Targaryen was “catering parties dressed as Snow White.” Her on-screen roles were also modest; her two professional credits before Game of Thrones were a single episode of the British soap Doctors and a Syfy channel movie called Triassic Attack.
Rory McCann’s Life “In a Tent” Before Playing The Hound
The story of Rory McCann, who portrayed the rugged Sandor “The Hound” Clegane, is one of the most dramatic transformations. Before his time on the show, McCann’s acting career was not providing him with a stable living. He has said that he was once homeless, living “literally in a tent” and even “stealing food occasionally” to get by.
While he had appeared in projects like The Book Group and Hot Fuzz, these roles did not bring him lasting success or financial security. His casting as The Hound completely changed his career, leading to a steady stream of acting work.
Kit Harington’s Tiring Start in London Theater
Kit Harington, who became a global star as Jon Snow, had a more traditional—but exhausting—start in the acting world. As a drama school student, he landed the lead role of Albert in the National Theatre’s acclaimed production of War Horse. The part required an immense commitment, and he was performing the show eight times a week.
A casting director for Game of Thrones spotted him in this play. She recalled that when Harington came in to audition for Jon Snow, he was “quite tired, because he’d been doing eight shows a week in ‘Warhorse’ for a year.” Despite his fatigue, his audition was “completely brilliant” and won him the career-defining role.
Nathalie Emmanuel’s Retail Days Before Missandei
Nathalie Emmanuel, who played Missandei, was also navigating a difficult career path before the HBO series. Though she had acting experience, including a role in the British soap Hollyoaks, her career had not yet taken off. To support herself, she was working a minimum wage job in retail.
Emmanuel has said she was constantly “trying to get every shift” she could to make ends meet. Landing the role of Missandei was the propelling force that pushed her career forward, leading to major parts in the Fast and Furious franchise and other high-profile films and TV shows.
Also Read: Game of Thrones: 11 Behind-the-Scenes Facts to Know
