Kit Harington Shares Strategy to Cope with Nervousness While Filming First-Ever Scene with “Game of Thrones ”Costar Peter Dinklage

Kit Harington and Peter Dinklage, who garnered immense popularity as Jon Snow and Tyrion Lannister in the acclaimed television series *Game of Thrones*, recently came together for a candid discussion in Variety’s *Actors on Actors*. Their meeting marked their first interaction in seven years since the show’s conclusion in 2019, reflecting on both their performances and the phenomenon that the series became from 2011 onwards.

During their conversation, Harington, now 39, shared nostalgic memories of his initial on-screen experience. He recounted filming his very first television scene alongside Dinklage, who is 56, revealing his nervousness prior to the shoot. Harington acknowledged that at the time he had limited experience, having performed only in theatre. “I remember feeling I had to be really still. That’s acting for cameras, right? Just be still, say the lines, and then go back to stillness,” he explained.

Dinklage, who has enjoyed a successful career in film before *Game of Thrones*, including notable roles in productions like *Elf* and *Death at a Funeral*, offered a light-hearted take on their initial encounter. He joked about his own animated performance during those early days, labelling his acting style as “overacting” and “being a ham”. However, Harington soon realised that Dinklage’s lively presence stemmed from his wealth of experience compared to his own.

Harington has also reflected on his naivety regarding the industry at that time, admitting he was unaware of the magnitude of the opportunity he was presented with. “I had no idea what ‘huge’ was or what pilot season entailed. The only things I knew were the Emmys and that I was in an HBO show, which was fantastic,” he remarked. Yet, as the show’s success grew, so did the pressure he felt. “It was thrilling but also overwhelming,” he added.

Since the series premiered, *Game of Thrones* experienced a meteoric rise, quickly establishing itself as a cultural touchstone. While the first season garnered solid ratings, it was by season two that it became a mega-hit, eventually surpassing *The Sopranos* to claim the title of HBO’s most-watched series. Throughout its run, *Game of Thrones* accumulated an impressive 59 Emmy Awards, including four wins for Outstanding Drama Series. Dinklage notably won four Emmys for his role as Tyrion, and Harington received several nominations for his portrayal of Jon Snow.

Reflecting on the impact of the show, Dinklage remarked that he truly understood its success only after leaving the production’s base in Belfast. “It wasn’t until we moved to warmer, exotic filming locations that I grasped the broader significance of what we were part of,” he said, to which Harington humorously responded, “I didn’t ever leave Belfast.”

The pair’s reunion underscored not only their shared history but also the deep connections forged among the extensive *Game of Thrones* cast, which included actors such as Sean Bean, Emilia Clarke, and Sophie Turner. Harington remains connected to the series through his marriage to Rose Leslie, who played Ygritte, and he recently collaborated again with Turner in *The Dreadful*. Meanwhile, Dinklage’s recent work includes starring in the first season of *Dexter: Resurrection*, reviving his tenure on television.

The legacy of *Game of Thrones* continues as it spawns multiple spin-offs. Currently, audiences anticipate the third season of *House of the Dragon*, exploring the civil war known as the “Dance of the Dragons.” Furthermore, a prequel film regarding King Aegon I Targaryen’s conquests is in the works, demonstrating the enduring fascination with the world crafted from George R.R. Martin’s *A Song of Ice and Fire* series.

As Harington and Dinklage reminisce about their time on set, it is clear that their experiences from *Game of Thrones* have significantly shaped their careers and lives. Their candid dialogue serves as a reminder of the profound impact the show made on its cast and the legions of fans worldwide.