17 Actors Who Passed On Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon Roles and Regretted It
Imagine turning down a role in one of the most epic television series ever created. From “Game of Thrones” to its prequel “House of the Dragon,” these blockbuster hits have offered roles that many actors would dream of. Yet, some of Hollywood’s finest have said “no” to Westeros and lived to tell the tale—or regret it. This article dives into the intriguing stories of actors who passed on the opportunity to be part of these legendary series. Each tale is a glimpse into the ‘what might have been’—from potential career-defining moments to simple misalignments of fate. Join us as we explore the decisions that left fans wondering what if.
Tamzin Merchant
Tamzin Merchant, initially cast as Daenerys Targaryen, found herself in the spotlight of the unaired pilot episode of Game of Thrones. Subsequent creative changes led to Emilia Clarke replacing her. Merchant disclosed in an interview with Entertainment Weekly the complex emotions surrounding her departure.
She recounted efforts to withdraw from the contract, driven by the daunting reality of the role’s demands—finding herself “naked and afraid” on set in Morocco. Her experience highlights the pressures and abrupt nature of decisions that actors often face in their careers.
Sam Claflin
Sam Claflin’s journey with ‘Game of Thrones’ auditions is a tale of near-misses. The actor auditioned multiple times for roles such as Jon Snow and Viserys Targaryen, which he discussed in various interviews.
Despite his efforts, he never landed a role but embraced the opportunity to remain a fan and appreciate the series from an audience perspective. In hindsight, Claflin expressed a sense of relief, appreciating the series more as a viewer rather than a participant, which he mentioned might have been jarring for him.
Gillian Anderson
Gillian Anderson’s decision to turn down a role in ‘Game of Thrones’ was rooted in her desire to work on projects with directors like Martin Scorsese rather than the time commitment to a long series.
This choice reflects her strategic approach to selecting roles aligning with her career goals and interests. Anderson has been known for her selectiveness, aiming for roles that offer significant artistic value or personal satisfaction.
Tricia Helfer
Tricia Helfer did not pass the audition for Cersei Lannister, but this experience introduced her to George R.R. Martin’s books, turning her into an avid fan of the series.
Her engagement with the series transitioned from potential participation to fandom, illustrating how some roles, even those not obtained, can lead to unexpected and fulfilling outcomes. This transition showcases a different connection to the series, rooted in the narrative and community rather than on-screen representation.