Gwendoline Christie, best known for her iconic portrayal of Brienne of Tarth in Game of Thrones, has revealed that her path to stardom was far from easy. Standing at 6 feet 3 inches, Christie often faced skepticism in the acting world due to her unconventional appearance.
Early Struggles in Hollywood
In a recent interview on Bullseye with Jesse Thorn, Christie shared that she was frequently told she wouldn’t succeed on screen because she was “too tall,” “too unconventional looking,” and “too large overall.” These repeated rejections made her early career particularly challenging, and she admitted that she “really struggled” to find roles that embraced her unique presence.
Breakthrough Role as Brienne of Tarth
Christie’s breakthrough came when a casting director spotted her performance with the Royal Shakespeare Company and recognized her potential for the role of Brienne. She described the opportunity as a “bolt from the blue,” allowing her to embrace qualities she had previously feared, including her height and androgynous features. The role not only transformed her career but also earned her an Emmy nomination in 2019.
Defying Industry Standards
Since Game of Thrones, Christie has continued to defy Hollywood conventions with notable roles in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, The Sandman, and Wednesday. Her journey highlights the importance of perseverance, resilience, and embracing one’s uniqueness, serving as an inspiring example for actors navigating an industry that often favors conventional looks.
A Message of Empowerment
Christie’s story reminds aspiring actors and fans alike that success doesn’t always follow traditional norms. By staying true to herself, she not only carved out a successful career but also redefined what it means to be a leading actress in a competitive field.
Sources:
People – Gwendoline Christie on Struggling Before Game of Thrones
0 Comments