Game of Thrones Actress Hannah Waddingham Reveals Lasting Impact of Torture Scene
Game of Thrones actress Hannah Waddingham opens up about the chronic claustrophobia she developed after filming a torture scene for the show. The intense scene involved waterboarding and left a lasting impact on the actress.
The Lasting Impact of a Torture Scene: Hannah Waddingham’s Experience
Game of Thrones actress Hannah Waddingham, known for her role as Septa Unella, recently revealed the lasting impact her character’s torture scene had on her. During an interview on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Waddingham shared how filming the scene left her with chronic claustrophobia.
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In the scene, Unella keeps Cersei Lannister imprisoned and mistreated as a follower of the Sparrows religious movement. However, Cersei eventually escapes and seeks revenge on Unella, pouring red wine over her face and threatening her with a slow and painful death.
To capture the intensity of the scene, Waddingham was strapped to a platform and subjected to what she described as ‘actual waterboarding’ for approximately 10 hours. She explained that she was restrained with leather straps and couldn’t lift her head, as it would be too obvious that it was loose. Despite expressing her discomfort, the producers insisted on maintaining the authenticity of the scene.
The Cinematic Realism and Personal Sacrifices of Game of Thrones
Reflecting on the experience, Waddingham expressed her admiration for the level of cinematography achieved in Game of Thrones. She commended the show’s creators, David Benioff and D.B. Weiss, for their dedication to capturing the brutal realism of the story. However, she also shared her distress at the lasting effects the scene had on her, comparing it to the worst day of her life, second only to childbirth.
Waddingham’s revelation sheds light on the physical and emotional toll that actors can endure in their pursuit of delivering powerful performances. It serves as a reminder that behind the scenes, there are often sacrifices made by the cast and crew to bring viewers the captivating stories they love.
Game of Thrones’ Legacy and Future Spin-Offs
Game of Thrones concluded in 2019, receiving mixed reviews for its final season. Despite the divisive reception, the show’s legacy continues with several spin-offs in the works.
House of the Dragon, set to premiere its second season in June 2024, delves into the history of the Targaryen family. Dunk and Egg will explore the adventures of Ser Duncan the Tall and Aegon V Targaryen. Additionally, other spin-offs, such as 10,000 Ships, Snow, and The Sea Snake, are also in development.
While Game of Thrones may have come to an end, its impact on television storytelling and the dedication of its cast and crew will not be forgotten. The show pushed boundaries and challenged viewers with its gripping narrative, leaving a lasting impression on both its audience and those involved in its creation.