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How did the game of thrones cast look before?

Natalie Dormer is the clever, glamorous Queen Margaery Tyrell.


Natalie Dormer is the clever, glamorous Queen Margaery Tyrell.
HBO

She's no stranger to royalty. Dormer got her start as the clever, glamorous wife of King Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, on Showtime's "The Tudors."


She's no stranger to royalty. Dormer got her start as the clever, glamorous wife of King Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, on Showtime's "The Tudors."
YouTube/Shotime

Dame Diana Rigg is excellent as the calculating and caustic matriarch Olenna Tyrell.


Dame Diana Rigg is excellent as the calculating and caustic matriarch Olenna Tyrell.
HBO

Rigg enchanted audiences decades earlier as Emma Peel in the '60s spy series, "The Avengers."


Rigg enchanted audiences decades earlier as Emma Peel in the '60s spy series, "The Avengers."
YouTube/ITV/ABC

As Lord Tywin Lannister, Charles Dance ruled King's Landing without ever having to sit on the Iron Throne himself.


As Lord Tywin Lannister, Charles Dance ruled King's Landing without ever having to sit on the Iron Throne himself.
HBO

Dance played a much softer English gentleman in the mini-series "Rebecca," alongside the future Queen of Thorns herself, Diana Rigg.


Dance played a much softer English gentleman in the mini-series "Rebecca," alongside the future Queen of Thorns herself, Diana Rigg.
YouTube/ITV/ABC

Lena Headey is an excellent villainness as the scheming, vengeful Queen Cersei.


Lena Headey is an excellent villainness as the scheming, vengeful Queen Cersei.
HBO

She showed audiences she could play a much more sympathetic ruler as Gorgo, Queen of Sparta in "300."


She showed audiences she could play a much more sympathetic ruler as Gorgo, Queen of Sparta in "300."
YouTube/Warner Bros

Mark Addy was the ruling King of the Seven Kingdoms, Robert Baratheon, when the show began.


Mark Addy was the ruling King of the Seven Kingdoms, Robert Baratheon, when the show began.
HBO

The actor was once cast as the cheerful squire, Roland, in 2001's "A Knight's Tale."


The actor was once cast as the cheerful squire, Roland, in 2001's "A Knight's Tale."
YouTube/Columbia

For the first four seasons, Jack Gleeson played King Joffrey, one of the most hated characters in Westeros.


For the first four seasons, Jack Gleeson played King Joffrey, one of the most hated characters in Westeros.
Google Images

But the actor got his start as an adorable, innocent young boy in the first film of the "Dark Knight" trilogy: "Batman Begins."


But the actor got his start as an adorable, innocent young boy in the first film of the "Dark Knight" trilogy: "Batman Begins."
YouTube/Warner Bros

Lancel Lannister (Eugene Simon) has become a serious threat to the crown since joining the High Sparrow.


Lancel Lannister (Eugene Simon) has become a serious threat to the crown since joining the High Sparrow.
hbogo.com

Simon got his start alongside Vanessa Hudgens in the Nickelodeon show, "House of Anubis."


Simon got his start alongside Vanessa Hudgens in the Nickelodeon show, "House of Anubis."
YouTube/Nickelodeon

Littlefinger (Aidan Gillen) is a master schemer and political strategist.


Littlefinger (Aidan Gillen) is a master schemer and political strategist.
HBO

But, in another life, he was a lawyer on the acclaimed crime drama, "The Wire."


But, in another life, he was a lawyer on the acclaimed crime drama, "The Wire."
YouTube/HBO

Natalia Tena debuted in season one as Osha, a wild woman eventually charged with protecting the youngest Stark child.

Years earlier, she was the similarly strong-willed Nymphadora Tonks in the "Harry Potter" film series.


Years earlier, she was the similarly strong-willed Nymphadora Tonks in the "Harry Potter" film series.
YouTube/Warner Bros

Maester Pycelle is mostly known for his cautious, largely useless advice as a member of the small council in King's Landing.


Maester Pycelle is mostly known for his cautious, largely useless advice as a member of the small council in King's Landing.
Youtube/HBO

Actor Julian Glover had a small, supporting role as a military advisor in "Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back."


Actor Julian Glover had a small, supporting role as a military advisor in "Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back."
YouTube/Lucasfilm

At 6'6," Rory McCann is terrifying and imposing as The Hound.


At 6'6," Rory McCann is terrifying and imposing as The Hound.
hbogo.com

He appeared years earlier in action-comedy "Hot Fuzz" as a terrifying, imposing (and hilarious) grocery store cashier.


He appeared years earlier in action-comedy "Hot Fuzz" as a terrifying, imposing (and hilarious) grocery store cashier.
YouTube/Paramount Pictures

Arya (Maisie Williams) has traveled a long, brutal road and her journey still isn't over.


Arya (Maisie Williams) has traveled a long, brutal road and her journey still isn't over.
Helen Sloan/HBO

The show was Williams' first big role. Here's a throwback to herself as a child she posted to Instagram.


Jason Momoa led the khalasar of fearsome warriors as Khal Drogo.


Jason Momoa led the khalasar of fearsome warriors as Khal Drogo.
YouTube

But the Samoan actor starred as a (much less cool) "Baywatch" hunk in his younger years.


But the Samoan actor starred as a (much less cool) "Baywatch" hunk in his younger years.
YouTube/NBC

Today, Emilia Clarke is known to most as the Mother of Dragons, Daenerys Targaryen.


Today, Emilia Clarke is known to most as the Mother of Dragons, Daenerys Targaryen.
HBO

In real life, Clarke's a brunette. One of her early roles was in a made-for-TV movie called "Triassic Adventure."

Iain Glen is the disgraced Ser Jorah, now motivated almost entirely by his love for the Daenerys.


Iain Glen is the disgraced Ser Jorah, now motivated almost entirely by his love for the Daenerys.
HBO

Glen once faced down Angelina Jolie in "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider."


Glen once faced down Angelina Jolie in "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider."
YouTube/Paramount Pictures

Nathalie Emmanuel plays Missandei, a beautiful multi-linguist and one of the few people in Meereen who Daenerys actually trusts.


Nathalie Emmanuel plays Missandei, a beautiful multi-linguist and one of the few people in Meereen who Daenerys actually trusts.
HBO

The English actress got her start playing Sasha Valentine in the English drama, "Hollyoaks."


The English actress got her start playing Sasha Valentine in the English drama, "Hollyoaks."
YouTube/All3Media

Sophie Turner's first big role was playing Lady Sansa Stark of Winterfell, but had a long way to go before becoming as strong as she is now.


Sophie Turner's first big role was playing Lady Sansa Stark of Winterfell, but had a long way to go before becoming as strong as she is now.
HBO

Here's a throwback she shared of herself on Instagram when she was younger.


Gwendoline Christie is a ferociously loyal knight instrumental in returning the Stark family to the North.

She got her start as the much more refined "Classy Shopper #2" in "The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus."


She got her start as the much more refined "Classy Shopper #2" in "The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus."
YouTube/Sony Pictures

Stephen Dillane led his armies to war as Stannis (the Mannis) Baratheon on the show.


Stephen Dillane led his armies to war as Stannis (the Mannis) Baratheon on the show.
Helen Sloan/HBO

He had a well-regarded earlier role opposite Nicole Kidman in "The Hours," as Leonard Woolf, husband to classic poet Virginia Woolf.


He had a well-regarded earlier role opposite Nicole Kidman in "The Hours," as Leonard Woolf, husband to classic poet Virginia Woolf.
YouTube/Paramount Pictures

Liam Cunningham is the loyal second in command to Stannis Baratheon.


Liam Cunningham is the loyal second in command to Stannis Baratheon.
HBO

Decades ago, he played a loyal knight to Sean Connery's King Arthur in "First Knight."


Decades ago, he played a loyal knight to Sean Connery's King Arthur in "First Knight."
YouTube/Columbia Pictures
Even the most powerful kings, queens, and khals of HBO's "Game of Thrones" had to start somewhere. 
Before the cast of "Game of Thrones" found themselves caught up in the drama of the War of the Five Kings, or the shocking bloodshed of the Red Wedding, they had other, much less intense roles. 
Read on to see what the "Game of Thrones" actors looked like before they were cast on the show.

View As: One Page Slides



Natalie Dormer is the clever, glamorous Queen Margaery Tyrell.


Natalie Dormer is the clever, glamorous Queen Margaery Tyrell.
HBO

She's no stranger to royalty. Dormer got her start as the clever, glamorous wife of King Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, on Showtime's "The Tudors."


She's no stranger to royalty. Dormer got her start as the clever, glamorous wife of King Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, on Showtime's "The Tudors."
YouTube/Shotime

Dame Diana Rigg is excellent as the calculating and caustic matriarch Olenna Tyrell.


Dame Diana Rigg is excellent as the calculating and caustic matriarch Olenna Tyrell.
HBO

Rigg enchanted audiences decades earlier as Emma Peel in the '60s spy series, "The Avengers."


Rigg enchanted audiences decades earlier as Emma Peel in the '60s spy series, "The Avengers."
YouTube/ITV/ABC

As Lord Tywin Lannister, Charles Dance ruled King's Landing without ever having to sit on the Iron Throne himself.


As Lord Tywin Lannister, Charles Dance ruled King's Landing without ever having to sit on the Iron Throne himself.
HBO

Dance played a much softer English gentleman in the mini-series "Rebecca," alongside the future Queen of Thorns herself, Diana Rigg.


Dance played a much softer English gentleman in the mini-series "Rebecca," alongside the future Queen of Thorns herself, Diana Rigg.
YouTube/ITV/ABC

Lena Headey is an excellent villainness as the scheming, vengeful Queen Cersei.


Lena Headey is an excellent villainness as the scheming, vengeful Queen Cersei.
HBO

She showed audiences she could play a much more sympathetic ruler as Gorgo, Queen of Sparta in "300."


She showed audiences she could play a much more sympathetic ruler as Gorgo, Queen of Sparta in "300."
YouTube/Warner Bros

Mark Addy was the ruling King of the Seven Kingdoms, Robert Baratheon, when the show began.


Mark Addy was the ruling King of the Seven Kingdoms, Robert Baratheon, when the show began.
HBO

The actor was once cast as the cheerful squire, Roland, in 2001's "A Knight's Tale."


The actor was once cast as the cheerful squire, Roland, in 2001's "A Knight's Tale."
YouTube/Columbia

For the first four seasons, Jack Gleeson played King Joffrey, one of the most hated characters in Westeros.


For the first four seasons, Jack Gleeson played King Joffrey, one of the most hated characters in Westeros.
Google Images

But the actor got his start as an adorable, innocent young boy in the first film of the "Dark Knight" trilogy: "Batman Begins."


But the actor got his start as an adorable, innocent young boy in the first film of the "Dark Knight" trilogy: "Batman Begins."
YouTube/Warner Bros

Lancel Lannister (Eugene Simon) has become a serious threat to the crown since joining the High Sparrow.


Lancel Lannister (Eugene Simon) has become a serious threat to the crown since joining the High Sparrow.
hbogo.com

Simon got his start alongside Vanessa Hudgens in the Nickelodeon show, "House of Anubis."


Simon got his start alongside Vanessa Hudgens in the Nickelodeon show, "House of Anubis."
YouTube/Nickelodeon

Littlefinger (Aidan Gillen) is a master schemer and political strategist.


Littlefinger (Aidan Gillen) is a master schemer and political strategist.
HBO

But, in another life, he was a lawyer on the acclaimed crime drama, "The Wire."


But, in another life, he was a lawyer on the acclaimed crime drama, "The Wire."
YouTube/HBO

Natalia Tena debuted in season one as Osha, a wild woman eventually charged with protecting the youngest Stark child.

Years earlier, she was the similarly strong-willed Nymphadora Tonks in the "Harry Potter" film series.


Years earlier, she was the similarly strong-willed Nymphadora Tonks in the "Harry Potter" film series.
YouTube/Warner Bros

Maester Pycelle is mostly known for his cautious, largely useless advice as a member of the small council in King's Landing.


Maester Pycelle is mostly known for his cautious, largely useless advice as a member of the small council in King's Landing.
Youtube/HBO

Actor Julian Glover had a small, supporting role as a military advisor in "Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back."


Actor Julian Glover had a small, supporting role as a military advisor in "Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back."
YouTube/Lucasfilm

At 6'6," Rory McCann is terrifying and imposing as The Hound.


At 6'6," Rory McCann is terrifying and imposing as The Hound.
hbogo.com

He appeared years earlier in action-comedy "Hot Fuzz" as a terrifying, imposing (and hilarious) grocery store cashier.


He appeared years earlier in action-comedy "Hot Fuzz" as a terrifying, imposing (and hilarious) grocery store cashier.
YouTube/Paramount Pictures

Arya (Maisie Williams) has traveled a long, brutal road and her journey still isn't over.


Arya (Maisie Williams) has traveled a long, brutal road and her journey still isn't over.
Helen Sloan/HBO

The show was Williams' first big role. Here's a throwback to herself as a child she posted to Instagram.


Jason Momoa led the khalasar of fearsome warriors as Khal Drogo.


Jason Momoa led the khalasar of fearsome warriors as Khal Drogo.
YouTube

But the Samoan actor starred as a (much less cool) "Baywatch" hunk in his younger years.


But the Samoan actor starred as a (much less cool) "Baywatch" hunk in his younger years.
YouTube/NBC

Today, Emilia Clarke is known to most as the Mother of Dragons, Daenerys Targaryen.


Today, Emilia Clarke is known to most as the Mother of Dragons, Daenerys Targaryen.
HBO

In real life, Clarke's a brunette. One of her early roles was in a made-for-TV movie called "Triassic Adventure."

Iain Glen is the disgraced Ser Jorah, now motivated almost entirely by his love for the Daenerys.


Iain Glen is the disgraced Ser Jorah, now motivated almost entirely by his love for the Daenerys.
HBO

Glen once faced down Angelina Jolie in "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider."


Glen once faced down Angelina Jolie in "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider."
YouTube/Paramount Pictures

Nathalie Emmanuel plays Missandei, a beautiful multi-linguist and one of the few people in Meereen who Daenerys actually trusts.


Nathalie Emmanuel plays Missandei, a beautiful multi-linguist and one of the few people in Meereen who Daenerys actually trusts.
HBO

The English actress got her start playing Sasha Valentine in the English drama, "Hollyoaks."


The English actress got her start playing Sasha Valentine in the English drama, "Hollyoaks."
YouTube/All3Media

Sophie Turner's first big role was playing Lady Sansa Stark of Winterfell, but had a long way to go before becoming as strong as she is now.


Sophie Turner's first big role was playing Lady Sansa Stark of Winterfell, but had a long way to go before becoming as strong as she is now.
HBO

Here's a throwback she shared of herself on Instagram when she was younger.


Gwendoline Christie is a ferociously loyal knight instrumental in returning the Stark family to the North.

She got her start as the much more refined "Classy Shopper #2" in "The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus."


She got her start as the much more refined "Classy Shopper #2" in "The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus."
YouTube/Sony Pictures

Stephen Dillane led his armies to war as Stannis (the Mannis) Baratheon on the show.


Stephen Dillane led his armies to war as Stannis (the Mannis) Baratheon on the show.
Helen Sloan/HBO

He had a well-regarded earlier role opposite Nicole Kidman in "The Hours," as Leonard Woolf, husband to classic poet Virginia Woolf.


He had a well-regarded earlier role opposite Nicole Kidman in "The Hours," as Leonard Woolf, husband to classic poet Virginia Woolf.
YouTube/Paramount Pictures

Liam Cunningham is the loyal second in command to Stannis Baratheon.


Liam Cunningham is the loyal second in command to Stannis Baratheon.
HBO

Decades ago, he played a loyal knight to Sean Connery's King Arthur in "First Knight."


Decades ago, he played a loyal knight to Sean Connery's King Arthur in "First Knight."
YouTube/Columbia Pictures

Natalie Dormer is the clever, glamorous Queen Margaery Tyrell.

Natalie Dormer is the clever, glamorous Queen Margaery Tyrell.
HBO

She's no stranger to royalty. Dormer got her start as the clever, glamorous wife of King Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, on Showtime's "The Tudors."

She's no stranger to royalty. Dormer got her start as the clever, glamorous wife of King Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, on Showtime's "The Tudors."
YouTube/Shotime

Dame Diana Rigg is excellent as the calculating and caustic matriarch Olenna Tyrell.

Dame Diana Rigg is excellent as the calculating and caustic matriarch Olenna Tyrell.
HBO

Rigg enchanted audiences decades earlier as Emma Peel in the '60s spy series, "The Avengers."

Rigg enchanted audiences decades earlier as Emma Peel in the '60s spy series, "The Avengers."
YouTube/ITV/ABC

As Lord Tywin Lannister, Charles Dance ruled King's Landing without ever having to sit on the Iron Throne himself.

As Lord Tywin Lannister, Charles Dance ruled King's Landing without ever having to sit on the Iron Throne himself.
HBO

Dance played a much softer English gentleman in the mini-series "Rebecca," alongside the future Queen of Thorns herself, Diana Rigg.

Dance played a much softer English gentleman in the mini-series "Rebecca," alongside the future Queen of Thorns herself, Diana Rigg.
YouTube/ITV/ABC

Lena Headey is an excellent villainness as the scheming, vengeful Queen Cersei.

Lena Headey is an excellent villainness as the scheming, vengeful Queen Cersei.
HBO

She showed audiences she could play a much more sympathetic ruler as Gorgo, Queen of Sparta in "300."

She showed audiences she could play a much more sympathetic ruler as Gorgo, Queen of Sparta in "300."
YouTube/Warner Bros

Mark Addy was the ruling King of the Seven Kingdoms, Robert Baratheon, when the show began.

Mark Addy was the ruling King of the Seven Kingdoms, Robert Baratheon, when the show began.
HBO

The actor was once cast as the cheerful squire, Roland, in 2001's "A Knight's Tale."

The actor was once cast as the cheerful squire, Roland, in 2001's "A Knight's Tale."
YouTube/Columbia

For the first four seasons, Jack Gleeson played King Joffrey, one of the most hated characters in Westeros.

For the first four seasons, Jack Gleeson played King Joffrey, one of the most hated characters in Westeros.
Google Images

But the actor got his start as an adorable, innocent young boy in the first film of the "Dark Knight" trilogy: "Batman Begins."

But the actor got his start as an adorable, innocent young boy in the first film of the "Dark Knight" trilogy: "Batman Begins."
YouTube/Warner Bros

Lancel Lannister (Eugene Simon) has become a serious threat to the crown since joining the High Sparrow.

Lancel Lannister (Eugene Simon) has become a serious threat to the crown since joining the High Sparrow.
hbogo.com

Simon got his start alongside Vanessa Hudgens in the Nickelodeon show, "House of Anubis."

Simon got his start alongside Vanessa Hudgens in the Nickelodeon show, "House of Anubis."
YouTube/Nickelodeon

Littlefinger (Aidan Gillen) is a master schemer and political strategist.

Littlefinger (Aidan Gillen) is a master schemer and political strategist.
HBO

But, in another life, he was a lawyer on the acclaimed crime drama, "The Wire."

But, in another life, he was a lawyer on the acclaimed crime drama, "The Wire."
YouTube/HBO

Natalia Tena debuted in season one as Osha, a wild woman eventually charged with protecting the youngest Stark child.

Years earlier, she was the similarly strong-willed Nymphadora Tonks in the "Harry Potter" film series.

Years earlier, she was the similarly strong-willed Nymphadora Tonks in the "Harry Potter" film series.
YouTube/Warner Bros

Maester Pycelle is mostly known for his cautious, largely useless advice as a member of the small council in King's Landing.

Maester Pycelle is mostly known for his cautious, largely useless advice as a member of the small council in King's Landing.
Youtube/HBO

Actor Julian Glover had a small, supporting role as a military advisor in "Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back."

Actor Julian Glover had a small, supporting role as a military advisor in "Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back."
YouTube/Lucasfilm

At 6'6," Rory McCann is terrifying and imposing as The Hound.

At 6'6," Rory McCann is terrifying and imposing as The Hound.
hbogo.com

He appeared years earlier in action-comedy "Hot Fuzz" as a terrifying, imposing (and hilarious) grocery store cashier.

He appeared years earlier in action-comedy "Hot Fuzz" as a terrifying, imposing (and hilarious) grocery store cashier.
YouTube/Paramount Pictures

Arya (Maisie Williams) has traveled a long, brutal road and her journey still isn't over.

Arya (Maisie Williams) has traveled a long, brutal road and her journey still isn't over.
Helen Sloan/HBO

The show was Williams' first big role. Here's a throwback to herself as a child she posted to Instagram.


Jason Momoa led the khalasar of fearsome warriors as Khal Drogo.

Jason Momoa led the khalasar of fearsome warriors as Khal Drogo.
YouTube

But the Samoan actor starred as a (much less cool) "Baywatch" hunk in his younger years.

But the Samoan actor starred as a (much less cool) "Baywatch" hunk in his younger years.
YouTube/NBC

Today, Emilia Clarke is known to most as the Mother of Dragons, Daenerys Targaryen.

Today, Emilia Clarke is known to most as the Mother of Dragons, Daenerys Targaryen.
HBO

In real life, Clarke's a brunette. One of her early roles was in a made-for-TV movie called "Triassic Adventure."

Iain Glen is the disgraced Ser Jorah, now motivated almost entirely by his love for the Daenerys.

Iain Glen is the disgraced Ser Jorah, now motivated almost entirely by his love for the Daenerys.
HBO

Glen once faced down Angelina Jolie in "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider."

Glen once faced down Angelina Jolie in "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider."
YouTube/Paramount Pictures

Nathalie Emmanuel plays Missandei, a beautiful multi-linguist and one of the few people in Meereen who Daenerys actually trusts.

Nathalie Emmanuel plays Missandei, a beautiful multi-linguist and one of the few people in Meereen who Daenerys actually trusts.
HBO

The English actress got her start playing Sasha Valentine in the English drama, "Hollyoaks."

The English actress got her start playing Sasha Valentine in the English drama, "Hollyoaks."
YouTube/All3Media

Sophie Turner's first big role was playing Lady Sansa Stark of Winterfell, but had a long way to go before becoming as strong as she is now.

Sophie Turner's first big role was playing Lady Sansa Stark of Winterfell, but had a long way to go before becoming as strong as she is now.
HBO

Here's a throwback she shared of herself on Instagram when she was younger.


Gwendoline Christie is a ferociously loyal knight instrumental in returning the Stark family to the North.

She got her start as the much more refined "Classy Shopper #2" in "The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus."

She got her start as the much more refined "Classy Shopper #2" in "The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus."
YouTube/Sony Pictures

Stephen Dillane led his armies to war as Stannis (the Mannis) Baratheon on the show.

Stephen Dillane led his armies to war as Stannis (the Mannis) Baratheon on the show.
Helen Sloan/HBO

He had a well-regarded earlier role opposite Nicole Kidman in "The Hours," as Leonard Woolf, husband to classic poet Virginia Woolf.

He had a well-regarded earlier role opposite Nicole Kidman in "The Hours," as Leonard Woolf, husband to classic poet Virginia Woolf.
YouTube/Paramount Pictures

Liam Cunningham is the loyal second in command to Stannis Baratheon.

Liam Cunningham is the loyal second in command to Stannis Baratheon.
HBO

Decades ago, he played a loyal knight to Sean Connery's King Arthur in "First Knight."

Decades ago, he played a loyal knight to Sean Connery's King Arthur in "First Knight."
YouTube/Columbia Pictures
Even the most powerful kings, queens, and khals of HBO's "Game of Thrones" had to start somewhere. 
Before the cast of "Game of Thrones" found themselves caught up in the drama of the War of the Five Kings, or the shocking bloodshed of the Red Wedding, they had other, much less intense roles. 
Read on to see what the "Game of Thrones" actors looked like before they were cast on the show.

View As: One Page Slides



Natalie Dormer is the clever, glamorous Queen Margaery Tyrell.


Natalie Dormer is the clever, glamorous Queen Margaery Tyrell.
HBO

She's no stranger to royalty. Dormer got her start as the clever, glamorous wife of King Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, on Showtime's "The Tudors."


She's no stranger to royalty. Dormer got her start as the clever, glamorous wife of King Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, on Showtime's "The Tudors."
YouTube/Shotime

Dame Diana Rigg is excellent as the calculating and caustic matriarch Olenna Tyrell.


Dame Diana Rigg is excellent as the calculating and caustic matriarch Olenna Tyrell.
HBO

Rigg enchanted audiences decades earlier as Emma Peel in the '60s spy series, "The Avengers."


Rigg enchanted audiences decades earlier as Emma Peel in the '60s spy series, "The Avengers."
YouTube/ITV/ABC

As Lord Tywin Lannister, Charles Dance ruled King's Landing without ever having to sit on the Iron Throne himself.


As Lord Tywin Lannister, Charles Dance ruled King's Landing without ever having to sit on the Iron Throne himself.
HBO

Dance played a much softer English gentleman in the mini-series "Rebecca," alongside the future Queen of Thorns herself, Diana Rigg.


Dance played a much softer English gentleman in the mini-series "Rebecca," alongside the future Queen of Thorns herself, Diana Rigg.
YouTube/ITV/ABC

Lena Headey is an excellent villainness as the scheming, vengeful Queen Cersei.


Lena Headey is an excellent villainness as the scheming, vengeful Queen Cersei.
HBO

She showed audiences she could play a much more sympathetic ruler as Gorgo, Queen of Sparta in "300."


She showed audiences she could play a much more sympathetic ruler as Gorgo, Queen of Sparta in "300."
YouTube/Warner Bros

Mark Addy was the ruling King of the Seven Kingdoms, Robert Baratheon, when the show began.


Mark Addy was the ruling King of the Seven Kingdoms, Robert Baratheon, when the show began.
HBO

The actor was once cast as the cheerful squire, Roland, in 2001's "A Knight's Tale."


The actor was once cast as the cheerful squire, Roland, in 2001's "A Knight's Tale."
YouTube/Columbia

For the first four seasons, Jack Gleeson played King Joffrey, one of the most hated characters in Westeros.


For the first four seasons, Jack Gleeson played King Joffrey, one of the most hated characters in Westeros.
Google Images

But the actor got his start as an adorable, innocent young boy in the first film of the "Dark Knight" trilogy: "Batman Begins."


But the actor got his start as an adorable, innocent young boy in the first film of the "Dark Knight" trilogy: "Batman Begins."
YouTube/Warner Bros

Lancel Lannister (Eugene Simon) has become a serious threat to the crown since joining the High Sparrow.


Lancel Lannister (Eugene Simon) has become a serious threat to the crown since joining the High Sparrow.
hbogo.com

Simon got his start alongside Vanessa Hudgens in the Nickelodeon show, "House of Anubis."


Simon got his start alongside Vanessa Hudgens in the Nickelodeon show, "House of Anubis."
YouTube/Nickelodeon

Littlefinger (Aidan Gillen) is a master schemer and political strategist.


Littlefinger (Aidan Gillen) is a master schemer and political strategist.
HBO

But, in another life, he was a lawyer on the acclaimed crime drama, "The Wire."


But, in another life, he was a lawyer on the acclaimed crime drama, "The Wire."
YouTube/HBO

Natalia Tena debuted in season one as Osha, a wild woman eventually charged with protecting the youngest Stark child.

Years earlier, she was the similarly strong-willed Nymphadora Tonks in the "Harry Potter" film series.


Years earlier, she was the similarly strong-willed Nymphadora Tonks in the "Harry Potter" film series.
YouTube/Warner Bros

Maester Pycelle is mostly known for his cautious, largely useless advice as a member of the small council in King's Landing.


Maester Pycelle is mostly known for his cautious, largely useless advice as a member of the small council in King's Landing.
Youtube/HBO

Actor Julian Glover had a small, supporting role as a military advisor in "Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back."


Actor Julian Glover had a small, supporting role as a military advisor in "Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back."
YouTube/Lucasfilm

At 6'6," Rory McCann is terrifying and imposing as The Hound.


At 6'6," Rory McCann is terrifying and imposing as The Hound.
hbogo.com

He appeared years earlier in action-comedy "Hot Fuzz" as a terrifying, imposing (and hilarious) grocery store cashier.


He appeared years earlier in action-comedy "Hot Fuzz" as a terrifying, imposing (and hilarious) grocery store cashier.
YouTube/Paramount Pictures

Arya (Maisie Williams) has traveled a long, brutal road and her journey still isn't over.


Arya (Maisie Williams) has traveled a long, brutal road and her journey still isn't over.
Helen Sloan/HBO

The show was Williams' first big role. Here's a throwback to herself as a child she posted to Instagram.


Jason Momoa led the khalasar of fearsome warriors as Khal Drogo.


Jason Momoa led the khalasar of fearsome warriors as Khal Drogo.
YouTube

But the Samoan actor starred as a (much less cool) "Baywatch" hunk in his younger years.


But the Samoan actor starred as a (much less cool) "Baywatch" hunk in his younger years.
YouTube/NBC

Today, Emilia Clarke is known to most as the Mother of Dragons, Daenerys Targaryen.


Today, Emilia Clarke is known to most as the Mother of Dragons, Daenerys Targaryen.
HBO

In real life, Clarke's a brunette. One of her early roles was in a made-for-TV movie called "Triassic Adventure."

Iain Glen is the disgraced Ser Jorah, now motivated almost entirely by his love for the Daenerys.


Iain Glen is the disgraced Ser Jorah, now motivated almost entirely by his love for the Daenerys.
HBO

Glen once faced down Angelina Jolie in "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider."


Glen once faced down Angelina Jolie in "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider."
YouTube/Paramount Pictures

Nathalie Emmanuel plays Missandei, a beautiful multi-linguist and one of the few people in Meereen who Daenerys actually trusts.


Nathalie Emmanuel plays Missandei, a beautiful multi-linguist and one of the few people in Meereen who Daenerys actually trusts.
HBO

The English actress got her start playing Sasha Valentine in the English drama, "Hollyoaks."


The English actress got her start playing Sasha Valentine in the English drama, "Hollyoaks."
YouTube/All3Media

Sophie Turner's first big role was playing Lady Sansa Stark of Winterfell, but had a long way to go before becoming as strong as she is now.


Sophie Turner's first big role was playing Lady Sansa Stark of Winterfell, but had a long way to go before becoming as strong as she is now.
HBO

Here's a throwback she shared of herself on Instagram when she was younger.


Gwendoline Christie is a ferociously loyal knight instrumental in returning the Stark family to the North.

She got her start as the much more refined "Classy Shopper #2" in "The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus."


She got her start as the much more refined "Classy Shopper #2" in "The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus."
YouTube/Sony Pictures

Stephen Dillane led his armies to war as Stannis (the Mannis) Baratheon on the show.


Stephen Dillane led his armies to war as Stannis (the Mannis) Baratheon on the show.
Helen Sloan/HBO

He had a well-regarded earlier role opposite Nicole Kidman in "The Hours," as Leonard Woolf, husband to classic poet Virginia Woolf.


He had a well-regarded earlier role opposite Nicole Kidman in "The Hours," as Leonard Woolf, husband to classic poet Virginia Woolf.
YouTube/Paramount Pictures

Liam Cunningham is the loyal second in command to Stannis Baratheon.


Liam Cunningham is the loyal second in command to Stannis Baratheon.
HBO

Decades ago, he played a loyal knight to Sean Connery's King Arthur in "First Knight."


Decades ago, he played a loyal knight to Sean Connery's King Arthur in "First Knight."
YouTube/Columbia PicturesEven the most powerful kings, queens, and khals of HBO's "Game of Thrones" had to start somewhere. 

Before the cast of "Game of Thrones" found themselves caught up in the drama of the War of the Five Kings, or the shocking bloodshed of the Red Wedding, they had other, much less intense roles. 
Read on to see what the "Game of Thrones" actors looked like before they were cast on the show.

View As: One Page Slides


Natalie Dormer is the clever, glamorous Queen Margaery Tyrell.

Natalie Dormer is the clever, glamorous Queen Margaery Tyrell.
HBO

She's no stranger to royalty. Dormer got her start as the clever, glamorous wife of King Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, on Showtime's "The Tudors."

She's no stranger to royalty. Dormer got her start as the clever, glamorous wife of King Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, on Showtime's "The Tudors."
YouTube/Shotime

Dame Diana Rigg is excellent as the calculating and caustic matriarch Olenna Tyrell.

Dame Diana Rigg is excellent as the calculating and caustic matriarch Olenna Tyrell.
HBO

Rigg enchanted audiences decades earlier as Emma Peel in the '60s spy series, "The Avengers."

Rigg enchanted audiences decades earlier as Emma Peel in the '60s spy series, "The Avengers."
YouTube/ITV/ABC

As Lord Tywin Lannister, Charles Dance ruled King's Landing without ever having to sit on the Iron Throne himself.

As Lord Tywin Lannister, Charles Dance ruled King's Landing without ever having to sit on the Iron Throne himself.
HBO

Dance played a much softer English gentleman in the mini-series "Rebecca," alongside the future Queen of Thorns herself, Diana Rigg.

Dance played a much softer English gentleman in the mini-series "Rebecca," alongside the future Queen of Thorns herself, Diana Rigg.
YouTube/ITV/ABC

Lena Headey is an excellent villainness as the scheming, vengeful Queen Cersei.

Lena Headey is an excellent villainness as the scheming, vengeful Queen Cersei.
HBO

She showed audiences she could play a much more sympathetic ruler as Gorgo, Queen of Sparta in "300."

She showed audiences she could play a much more sympathetic ruler as Gorgo, Queen of Sparta in "300."
YouTube/Warner Bros

Mark Addy was the ruling King of the Seven Kingdoms, Robert Baratheon, when the show began.

Mark Addy was the ruling King of the Seven Kingdoms, Robert Baratheon, when the show began.
HBO

The actor was once cast as the cheerful squire, Roland, in 2001's "A Knight's Tale."

The actor was once cast as the cheerful squire, Roland, in 2001's "A Knight's Tale."
YouTube/Columbia

For the first four seasons, Jack Gleeson played King Joffrey, one of the most hated characters in Westeros.

For the first four seasons, Jack Gleeson played King Joffrey, one of the most hated characters in Westeros.
Google Images

But the actor got his start as an adorable, innocent young boy in the first film of the "Dark Knight" trilogy: "Batman Begins."

But the actor got his start as an adorable, innocent young boy in the first film of the "Dark Knight" trilogy: "Batman Begins."
YouTube/Warner Bros

Lancel Lannister (Eugene Simon) has become a serious threat to the crown since joining the High Sparrow.

Lancel Lannister (Eugene Simon) has become a serious threat to the crown since joining the High Sparrow.
hbogo.com

Simon got his start alongside Vanessa Hudgens in the Nickelodeon show, "House of Anubis."

Simon got his start alongside Vanessa Hudgens in the Nickelodeon show, "House of Anubis."
YouTube/Nickelodeon

Littlefinger (Aidan Gillen) is a master schemer and political strategist.

Littlefinger (Aidan Gillen) is a master schemer and political strategist.
HBO

But, in another life, he was a lawyer on the acclaimed crime drama, "The Wire."

But, in another life, he was a lawyer on the acclaimed crime drama, "The Wire."
YouTube/HBO

Natalia Tena debuted in season one as Osha, a wild woman eventually charged with protecting the youngest Stark child.

Years earlier, she was the similarly strong-willed Nymphadora Tonks in the "Harry Potter" film series.

Years earlier, she was the similarly strong-willed Nymphadora Tonks in the "Harry Potter" film series.
YouTube/Warner Bros

Maester Pycelle is mostly known for his cautious, largely useless advice as a member of the small council in King's Landing.

Maester Pycelle is mostly known for his cautious, largely useless advice as a member of the small council in King's Landing.
Youtube/HBO

Actor Julian Glover had a small, supporting role as a military advisor in "Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back."

Actor Julian Glover had a small, supporting role as a military advisor in "Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back."
YouTube/Lucasfilm

At 6'6," Rory McCann is terrifying and imposing as The Hound.

At 6'6," Rory McCann is terrifying and imposing as The Hound.
hbogo.com

He appeared years earlier in action-comedy "Hot Fuzz" as a terrifying, imposing (and hilarious) grocery store cashier.

He appeared years earlier in action-comedy "Hot Fuzz" as a terrifying, imposing (and hilarious) grocery store cashier.
YouTube/Paramount Pictures

Arya (Maisie Williams) has traveled a long, brutal road and her journey still isn't over.

Arya (Maisie Williams) has traveled a long, brutal road and her journey still isn't over.
Helen Sloan/HBO

The show was Williams' first big role. Here's a throwback to herself as a child she posted to Instagram.


Jason Momoa led the khalasar of fearsome warriors as Khal Drogo.

Jason Momoa led the khalasar of fearsome warriors as Khal Drogo.
YouTube

But the Samoan actor starred as a (much less cool) "Baywatch" hunk in his younger years.

But the Samoan actor starred as a (much less cool) "Baywatch" hunk in his younger years.
YouTube/NBC

Today, Emilia Clarke is known to most as the Mother of Dragons, Daenerys Targaryen.

Today, Emilia Clarke is known to most as the Mother of Dragons, Daenerys Targaryen.
HBO

In real life, Clarke's a brunette. One of her early roles was in a made-for-TV movie called "Triassic Adventure."

Iain Glen is the disgraced Ser Jorah, now motivated almost entirely by his love for the Daenerys.

Iain Glen is the disgraced Ser Jorah, now motivated almost entirely by his love for the Daenerys.
HBO

Glen once faced down Angelina Jolie in "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider."

Glen once faced down Angelina Jolie in "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider."
YouTube/Paramount Pictures

Nathalie Emmanuel plays Missandei, a beautiful multi-linguist and one of the few people in Meereen who Daenerys actually trusts.

Nathalie Emmanuel plays Missandei, a beautiful multi-linguist and one of the few people in Meereen who Daenerys actually trusts.
HBO

The English actress got her start playing Sasha Valentine in the English drama, "Hollyoaks."

The English actress got her start playing Sasha Valentine in the English drama, "Hollyoaks."
YouTube/All3Media

Sophie Turner's first big role was playing Lady Sansa Stark of Winterfell, but had a long way to go before becoming as strong as she is now.

Sophie Turner's first big role was playing Lady Sansa Stark of Winterfell, but had a long way to go before becoming as strong as she is now.
HBO

Here's a throwback she shared of herself on Instagram when she was younger.


Gwendoline Christie is a ferociously loyal knight instrumental in returning the Stark family to the North.

She got her start as the much more refined "Classy Shopper #2" in "The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus."

She got her start as the much more refined "Classy Shopper #2" in "The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus."
YouTube/Sony Pictures

Stephen Dillane led his armies to war as Stannis (the Mannis) Baratheon on the show.

Stephen Dillane led his armies to war as Stannis (the Mannis) Baratheon on the show.
Helen Sloan/HBO

He had a well-regarded earlier role opposite Nicole Kidman in "The Hours," as Leonard Woolf, husband to classic poet Virginia Woolf.

He had a well-regarded earlier role opposite Nicole Kidman in "The Hours," as Leonard Woolf, husband to classic poet Virginia Woolf.
YouTube/Paramount Pictures

Liam Cunningham is the loyal second in command to Stannis Baratheon.

Liam Cunningham is the loyal second in command to Stannis Baratheon.
HBO

Decades ago, he played a loyal knight to Sean Connery's King Arthur in "First Knight."

Decades ago, he played a loyal knight to Sean Connery's King Arthur in "First Knight."
YouTube/Columbia Pictures
Even the most powerful kings, queens, and khals of HBO's "Game of Thrones" had to start somewhere. 
Before the cast of "Game of Thrones" found themselves caught up in the drama of the War of the Five Kings, or the shocking bloodshed of the Red Wedding, they had other, much less intense roles. 
Read on to see what the "Game of Thrones" actors looked like before they were cast on the show.

View As: One Page Slides



Natalie Dormer is the clever, glamorous Queen Margaery Tyrell.


Natalie Dormer is the clever, glamorous Queen Margaery Tyrell.
HBO

She's no stranger to royalty. Dormer got her start as the clever, glamorous wife of King Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, on Showtime's "The Tudors."


She's no stranger to royalty. Dormer got her start as the clever, glamorous wife of King Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, on Showtime's "The Tudors."
YouTube/Shotime

Dame Diana Rigg is excellent as the calculating and caustic matriarch Olenna Tyrell.


Dame Diana Rigg is excellent as the calculating and caustic matriarch Olenna Tyrell.
HBO

Rigg enchanted audiences decades earlier as Emma Peel in the '60s spy series, "The Avengers."


Rigg enchanted audiences decades earlier as Emma Peel in the '60s spy series, "The Avengers."
YouTube/ITV/ABC

As Lord Tywin Lannister, Charles Dance ruled King's Landing without ever having to sit on the Iron Throne himself.


As Lord Tywin Lannister, Charles Dance ruled King's Landing without ever having to sit on the Iron Throne himself.
HBO

Dance played a much softer English gentleman in the mini-series "Rebecca," alongside the future Queen of Thorns herself, Diana Rigg.


Dance played a much softer English gentleman in the mini-series "Rebecca," alongside the future Queen of Thorns herself, Diana Rigg.
YouTube/ITV/ABC

Lena Headey is an excellent villainness as the scheming, vengeful Queen Cersei.


Lena Headey is an excellent villainness as the scheming, vengeful Queen Cersei.
HBO

She showed audiences she could play a much more sympathetic ruler as Gorgo, Queen of Sparta in "300."


She showed audiences she could play a much more sympathetic ruler as Gorgo, Queen of Sparta in "300."
YouTube/Warner Bros

Mark Addy was the ruling King of the Seven Kingdoms, Robert Baratheon, when the show began.


Mark Addy was the ruling King of the Seven Kingdoms, Robert Baratheon, when the show began.
HBO

The actor was once cast as the cheerful squire, Roland, in 2001's "A Knight's Tale."


The actor was once cast as the cheerful squire, Roland, in 2001's "A Knight's Tale."
YouTube/Columbia

For the first four seasons, Jack Gleeson played King Joffrey, one of the most hated characters in Westeros.


For the first four seasons, Jack Gleeson played King Joffrey, one of the most hated characters in Westeros.
Google Images

But the actor got his start as an adorable, innocent young boy in the first film of the "Dark Knight" trilogy: "Batman Begins."


But the actor got his start as an adorable, innocent young boy in the first film of the "Dark Knight" trilogy: "Batman Begins."
YouTube/Warner Bros

Lancel Lannister (Eugene Simon) has become a serious threat to the crown since joining the High Sparrow.


Lancel Lannister (Eugene Simon) has become a serious threat to the crown since joining the High Sparrow.
hbogo.com

Simon got his start alongside Vanessa Hudgens in the Nickelodeon show, "House of Anubis."


Simon got his start alongside Vanessa Hudgens in the Nickelodeon show, "House of Anubis."
YouTube/Nickelodeon

Littlefinger (Aidan Gillen) is a master schemer and political strategist.


Littlefinger (Aidan Gillen) is a master schemer and political strategist.
HBO

But, in another life, he was a lawyer on the acclaimed crime drama, "The Wire."


But, in another life, he was a lawyer on the acclaimed crime drama, "The Wire."
YouTube/HBO

Natalia Tena debuted in season one as Osha, a wild woman eventually charged with protecting the youngest Stark child.

Years earlier, she was the similarly strong-willed Nymphadora Tonks in the "Harry Potter" film series.


Years earlier, she was the similarly strong-willed Nymphadora Tonks in the "Harry Potter" film series.
YouTube/Warner Bros

Maester Pycelle is mostly known for his cautious, largely useless advice as a member of the small council in King's Landing.


Maester Pycelle is mostly known for his cautious, largely useless advice as a member of the small council in King's Landing.
Youtube/HBO

Actor Julian Glover had a small, supporting role as a military advisor in "Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back."


Actor Julian Glover had a small, supporting role as a military advisor in "Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back."
YouTube/Lucasfilm

At 6'6," Rory McCann is terrifying and imposing as The Hound.


At 6'6," Rory McCann is terrifying and imposing as The Hound.
hbogo.com

He appeared years earlier in action-comedy "Hot Fuzz" as a terrifying, imposing (and hilarious) grocery store cashier.


He appeared years earlier in action-comedy "Hot Fuzz" as a terrifying, imposing (and hilarious) grocery store cashier.
YouTube/Paramount Pictures

Arya (Maisie Williams) has traveled a long, brutal road and her journey still isn't over.


Arya (Maisie Williams) has traveled a long, brutal road and her journey still isn't over.
Helen Sloan/HBO

The show was Williams' first big role. Here's a throwback to herself as a child she posted to Instagram.


Jason Momoa led the khalasar of fearsome warriors as Khal Drogo.


Jason Momoa led the khalasar of fearsome warriors as Khal Drogo.
YouTube

But the Samoan actor starred as a (much less cool) "Baywatch" hunk in his younger years.


But the Samoan actor starred as a (much less cool) "Baywatch" hunk in his younger years.
YouTube/NBC

Today, Emilia Clarke is known to most as the Mother of Dragons, Daenerys Targaryen.


Today, Emilia Clarke is known to most as the Mother of Dragons, Daenerys Targaryen.
HBO

In real life, Clarke's a brunette. One of her early roles was in a made-for-TV movie called "Triassic Adventure."

Iain Glen is the disgraced Ser Jorah, now motivated almost entirely by his love for the Daenerys.


Iain Glen is the disgraced Ser Jorah, now motivated almost entirely by his love for the Daenerys.
HBO

Glen once faced down Angelina Jolie in "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider."


Glen once faced down Angelina Jolie in "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider."
YouTube/Paramount Pictures

Nathalie Emmanuel plays Missandei, a beautiful multi-linguist and one of the few people in Meereen who Daenerys actually trusts.


Nathalie Emmanuel plays Missandei, a beautiful multi-linguist and one of the few people in Meereen who Daenerys actually trusts.
HBO

The English actress got her start playing Sasha Valentine in the English drama, "Hollyoaks."


The English actress got her start playing Sasha Valentine in the English drama, "Hollyoaks."
YouTube/All3Media

Sophie Turner's first big role was playing Lady Sansa Stark of Winterfell, but had a long way to go before becoming as strong as she is now.


Sophie Turner's first big role was playing Lady Sansa Stark of Winterfell, but had a long way to go before becoming as strong as she is now.
HBO

Here's a throwback she shared of herself on Instagram when she was younger.


Gwendoline Christie is a ferociously loyal knight instrumental in returning the Stark family to the North.

She got her start as the much more refined "Classy Shopper #2" in "The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus."


She got her start as the much more refined "Classy Shopper #2" in "The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus."
YouTube/Sony Pictures

Stephen Dillane led his armies to war as Stannis (the Mannis) Baratheon on the show.


Stephen Dillane led his armies to war as Stannis (the Mannis) Baratheon on the show.
Helen Sloan/HBO

He had a well-regarded earlier role opposite Nicole Kidman in "The Hours," as Leonard Woolf, husband to classic poet Virginia Woolf.


He had a well-regarded earlier role opposite Nicole Kidman in "The Hours," as Leonard Woolf, husband to classic poet Virginia Woolf.
YouTube/Paramount Pictures

Liam Cunningham is the loyal second in command to Stannis Baratheon.


Liam Cunningham is the loyal second in command to Stannis Baratheon.
HBO

Decades ago, he played a loyal knight to Sean Connery's King Arthur in "First Knight."


Decades ago, he played a loyal knight to Sean Connery's King Arthur in "First Knight."
YouTube/Columbia Pictures
Even the most powerful kings, queens, and khals of HBO's "Game of Thrones" had to start somewhere. 
Before the cast of "Game of Thrones" found themselves caught up in the drama of the War of the Five Kings, or the shocking bloodshed of the Red Wedding, they had other, much less intense roles. 
Read on to see what the "Game of Thrones" actors looked like before they were cast on the show.

View As: One Page Slides



Natalie Dormer is the clever, glamorous Queen Margaery Tyrell.


Natalie Dormer is the clever, glamorous Queen Margaery Tyrell.
HBO

She's no stranger to royalty. Dormer got her start as the clever, glamorous wife of King Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, on Showtime's "The Tudors."


She's no stranger to royalty. Dormer got her start as the clever, glamorous wife of King Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, on Showtime's "The Tudors."
YouTube/Shotime

Dame Diana Rigg is excellent as the calculating and caustic matriarch Olenna Tyrell.


Dame Diana Rigg is excellent as the calculating and caustic matriarch Olenna Tyrell.
HBO

Rigg enchanted audiences decades earlier as Emma Peel in the '60s spy series, "The Avengers."


Rigg enchanted audiences decades earlier as Emma Peel in the '60s spy series, "The Avengers."
YouTube/ITV/ABC

As Lord Tywin Lannister, Charles Dance ruled King's Landing without ever having to sit on the Iron Throne himself.


As Lord Tywin Lannister, Charles Dance ruled King's Landing without ever having to sit on the Iron Throne himself.
HBO

Dance played a much softer English gentleman in the mini-series "Rebecca," alongside the future Queen of Thorns herself, Diana Rigg.


Dance played a much softer English gentleman in the mini-series "Rebecca," alongside the future Queen of Thorns herself, Diana Rigg.
YouTube/ITV/ABC

Lena Headey is an excellent villainness as the scheming, vengeful Queen Cersei.


Lena Headey is an excellent villainness as the scheming, vengeful Queen Cersei.
HBO

She showed audiences she could play a much more sympathetic ruler as Gorgo, Queen of Sparta in "300."


She showed audiences she could play a much more sympathetic ruler as Gorgo, Queen of Sparta in "300."
YouTube/Warner Bros

Mark Addy was the ruling King of the Seven Kingdoms, Robert Baratheon, when the show began.


Mark Addy was the ruling King of the Seven Kingdoms, Robert Baratheon, when the show began.
HBO

The actor was once cast as the cheerful squire, Roland, in 2001's "A Knight's Tale."


The actor was once cast as the cheerful squire, Roland, in 2001's "A Knight's Tale."
YouTube/Columbia

For the first four seasons, Jack Gleeson played King Joffrey, one of the most hated characters in Westeros.


For the first four seasons, Jack Gleeson played King Joffrey, one of the most hated characters in Westeros.
Google Images

But the actor got his start as an adorable, innocent young boy in the first film of the "Dark Knight" trilogy: "Batman Begins."


But the actor got his start as an adorable, innocent young boy in the first film of the "Dark Knight" trilogy: "Batman Begins."
YouTube/Warner Bros

Lancel Lannister (Eugene Simon) has become a serious threat to the crown since joining the High Sparrow.


Lancel Lannister (Eugene Simon) has become a serious threat to the crown since joining the High Sparrow.
hbogo.com

Simon got his start alongside Vanessa Hudgens in the Nickelodeon show, "House of Anubis."


Simon got his start alongside Vanessa Hudgens in the Nickelodeon show, "House of Anubis."
YouTube/Nickelodeon

Littlefinger (Aidan Gillen) is a master schemer and political strategist.


Littlefinger (Aidan Gillen) is a master schemer and political strategist.
HBO

But, in another life, he was a lawyer on the acclaimed crime drama, "The Wire."


But, in another life, he was a lawyer on the acclaimed crime drama, "The Wire."
YouTube/HBO

Natalia Tena debuted in season one as Osha, a wild woman eventually charged with protecting the youngest Stark child.

Years earlier, she was the similarly strong-willed Nymphadora Tonks in the "Harry Potter" film series.


Years earlier, she was the similarly strong-willed Nymphadora Tonks in the "Harry Potter" film series.
YouTube/Warner Bros

Maester Pycelle is mostly known for his cautious, largely useless advice as a member of the small council in King's Landing.


Maester Pycelle is mostly known for his cautious, largely useless advice as a member of the small council in King's Landing.
Youtube/HBO

Actor Julian Glover had a small, supporting role as a military advisor in "Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back."


Actor Julian Glover had a small, supporting role as a military advisor in "Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back."
YouTube/Lucasfilm

At 6'6," Rory McCann is terrifying and imposing as The Hound.


At 6'6," Rory McCann is terrifying and imposing as The Hound.
hbogo.com

He appeared years earlier in action-comedy "Hot Fuzz" as a terrifying, imposing (and hilarious) grocery store cashier.


He appeared years earlier in action-comedy "Hot Fuzz" as a terrifying, imposing (and hilarious) grocery store cashier.
YouTube/Paramount Pictures

Arya (Maisie Williams) has traveled a long, brutal road and her journey still isn't over.


Arya (Maisie Williams) has traveled a long, brutal road and her journey still isn't over.
Helen Sloan/HBO

The show was Williams' first big role. Here's a throwback to herself as a child she posted to Instagram.


Jason Momoa led the khalasar of fearsome warriors as Khal Drogo.


Jason Momoa led the khalasar of fearsome warriors as Khal Drogo.
YouTube

But the Samoan actor starred as a (much less cool) "Baywatch" hunk in his younger years.


But the Samoan actor starred as a (much less cool) "Baywatch" hunk in his younger years.
YouTube/NBC

Today, Emilia Clarke is known to most as the Mother of Dragons, Daenerys Targaryen.


Today, Emilia Clarke is known to most as the Mother of Dragons, Daenerys Targaryen.
HBO

In real life, Clarke's a brunette. One of her early roles was in a made-for-TV movie called "Triassic Adventure."

Iain Glen is the disgraced Ser Jorah, now motivated almost entirely by his love for the Daenerys.


Iain Glen is the disgraced Ser Jorah, now motivated almost entirely by his love for the Daenerys.
HBO

Glen once faced down Angelina Jolie in "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider."


Glen once faced down Angelina Jolie in "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider."
YouTube/Paramount Pictures

Nathalie Emmanuel plays Missandei, a beautiful multi-linguist and one of the few people in Meereen who Daenerys actually trusts.


Nathalie Emmanuel plays Missandei, a beautiful multi-linguist and one of the few people in Meereen who Daenerys actually trusts.
HBO

The English actress got her start playing Sasha Valentine in the English drama, "Hollyoaks."


The English actress got her start playing Sasha Valentine in the English drama, "Hollyoaks."
YouTube/All3Media

Sophie Turner's first big role was playing Lady Sansa Stark of Winterfell, but had a long way to go before becoming as strong as she is now.


Sophie Turner's first big role was playing Lady Sansa Stark of Winterfell, but had a long way to go before becoming as strong as she is now.
HBO

Here's a throwback she shared of herself on Instagram when she was younger.


Gwendoline Christie is a ferociously loyal knight instrumental in returning the Stark family to the North.

She got her start as the much more refined "Classy Shopper #2" in "The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus."


She got her start as the much more refined "Classy Shopper #2" in "The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus."
YouTube/Sony Pictures

Stephen Dillane led his armies to war as Stannis (the Mannis) Baratheon on the show.


Stephen Dillane led his armies to war as Stannis (the Mannis) Baratheon on the show.
Helen Sloan/HBO

He had a well-regarded earlier role opposite Nicole Kidman in "The Hours," as Leonard Woolf, husband to classic poet Virginia Woolf.


He had a well-regarded earlier role opposite Nicole Kidman in "The Hours," as Leonard Woolf, husband to classic poet Virginia Woolf.
YouTube/Paramount Pictures

Liam Cunningham is the loyal second in command to Stannis Baratheon.


Liam Cunningham is the loyal second in command to Stannis Baratheon.
HBO

Decades ago, he played a loyal knight to Sean Connery's King Arthur in "First Knight."


Decades ago, he played a loyal knight to Sean Connery's King Arthur in "First Knight."
YouTube/Columbia Pictures

The great Khal Drogo started as Baywatch Hunk.





Natalie Dormer is the clever, glamorous Queen Margaery Tyrell.


Natalie Dormer is the clever, glamorous Queen Margaery Tyrell.
HBO

She's no stranger to royalty. Dormer got her start as the clever, glamorous wife of King Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, on Showtime's "The Tudors."

She's no stranger to royalty. Dormer got her start as the clever, glamorous wife of King Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, on Showtime's "The Tudors."


Dame Diana Rigg is excellent as the calculating and caustic matriarch Olenna Tyrell.

Dame Diana Rigg is excellent as the calculating and caustic matriarch Olenna Tyrell.

Rigg enchanted audiences decades earlier as Emma Peel in the '60s spy series, "The Avengers."

Rigg enchanted audiences decades earlier as Emma Peel in the '60s spy series, "The Avengers."

As Lord Tywin Lannister, Charles Dance ruled King's Landing without ever having to sit on the Iron Throne himself.

As Lord Tywin Lannister, Charles Dance ruled King's Landing without ever having to sit on the Iron Throne himself.

Dance played a much softer English gentleman in the mini-series "Rebecca," alongside the future Queen of Thorns herself, Diana Rigg.

Dance played a much softer English gentleman in the mini-series "Rebecca," alongside the future Queen of Thorns herself, Diana Rigg.

Lena Headey is an excellent villainness as the scheming, vengeful Queen Cersei.

Lena Headey is an excellent villainness as the scheming, vengeful Queen Cersei.

She showed audiences she could play a much more sympathetic ruler as Gorgo, Queen of Sparta in "300."


She showed audiences she could play a much more sympathetic ruler as Gorgo, Queen of Sparta in "300."


For the first four seasons, Jack Gleeson played King Joffrey, one of the most hated characters in Westeros.

For the first four seasons, Jack Gleeson played King Joffrey, one of the most hated characters in Westeros.
Google Images

But the actor got his start as an adorable, innocent young boy in the first film of the "Dark Knight" trilogy: "Batman Begins."

But the actor got his start as an adorable, innocent young boy in the first film of the "Dark Knight" trilogy: "Batman Begins."

Littlefinger (Aidan Gillen) is a master schemer and political strategist.


Littlefinger (Aidan Gillen) is a master schemer and political strategist.
HBO

But, in another life, he was a lawyer on the acclaimed crime drama, "The Wire."

But, in another life, he was a lawyer on the acclaimed crime drama, "The Wire."

Arya (Maisie Williams) has traveled a long, brutal road and her journey still isn't over.


Arya (Maisie Williams) has traveled a long, brutal road and her journey still isn't over.
Helen Sloan/HBO

The show was Williams' first big role. Here's a throwback to herself as a child she posted to Instagram.


Jason Momoa led the khalasar of fearsome warriors as Khal Drogo.


Jason Momoa led the khalasar of fearsome warriors as Khal Drogo.
YouTube

But the Samoan actor starred as a (much less cool) "Baywatch" hunk in his younger years.

But the Samoan actor starred as a (much less cool) "Baywatch" hunk in his younger years.

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