In the world of Game of Thrones, where power, loyalty, and survival are at the forefront, one character stands out for defying traditional expectations, someone whose strength and honor captivate both viewers and fellow characters alike. With a towering presence and unwavering moral code, this character quickly became a fan favorite. The character represents resilience and courage in a world that often undermines those qualities.
But casting this role wasn’t without its challenges. Showrunners David Benioff and Dan Weiss were particularly “nervous” about finding the right actor to portray this daunting figure. However, the actor not only embodies physical strength but also an inner resolve that would resonate with the audience.
Game of Thrones showrunners David Benioff and Dan Weiss were nervous about casting one of the strongest characters in Westeros
When it comes to a towering figure of strength, loyalty, and honor, often challenging the traditional norms of femininity and heroism, the name that comes first is Brienne of Tarth. With her imposing stature, unwavering moral code, and swordsmanship, Brienne, became one of the most beloved characters in Game of Thrones.
Talking to the very own page of Westeros, in 2012, shortly after season 1, showrunners David Benioff and Dan Weiss shared their behind-the-scene struggles with casting. Particularly for a role that required both physicality and depth. Benioff stated,
That was a role we were nervous about casting. For many of the roles, there’s physical appearance from the books that we try to stay true to.
The character, described in the books as large and powerful, needed to project an undeniable presence on screen, making the casting decision all the more critical. The team understood that if the actress didn’t convey both strength and vulnerability, it could undermine the character’s impact.
When Gwendoline Christie stepped into the room for the audition, the showrunners were immediately struck by her towering height and commanding presence.
“She’s taller than me and was looking down at me,” Benioff recalled. Despite their initial nerves, they were soon relieved. “We said, ‘She’s the one,’ before she even said anything,” Weiss admitted, impressed by how Christie effortlessly filled the space and brought the character alive.
How Gwendoline Christie’s audition won over showrunners and fans
![Jamie Lannister with Brienne of Tarth [Credit Home Box Office Inc.]](https://fwmedia.fandomwire.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/30092752/Jamie-Lannister-with-Brienne-of-Tarth-Credit-Home-Box-Office-Inc.jpeg "‘Game of Thrones’ Character Showrunners Were Most “Nervous” to Cast Became an Instant Hit Among Fans 6")
When it came to adapting George R.R. Martin‘s vast A Song of Ice and Fire series, Benioff and Weiss faced the daunting task of bringing the character alive. Martin himself looks at the casting videos, and when it came to Christie’s audition, they all agreed instantly because “She’s the one.”
The concerns weren’t just about physicality, the showrunners were also apprehensive about how the character would sound. “We were like, ‘Please don’t have a funny voice,’” Weiss joked, but their fears quickly faded as Christie’s performance exceeded all expectations. Not only did she nail the physicality required, but she also brought depth to the character.
This casting decision turned out to be a major success, and the character became one of the most beloved figures on Game of Thrones. The actress’s portrayal resonated deeply with fans, who satisfied the character’s unwavering sense of justice and commitment to doing what was right, even getting the title “Knight of the Seven Kingdoms” as a woman, by Jamie Lannister. What started as a nerve-wracking casting decision ended up being one of the most defining moments of the show.
Game of Thrones is available to stream on Max.
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