Jaime, The Kingslayer
Well so far we’ve looked at possible casting choices for a Lannister, a Stark and a Targaryen. Let’s head back to the Lannister clan and take a look at the Kingslayer himself, Jaime Lannister. The role demands someone who can be simultaneously likable and despicable. Obviously they are going to want to cast a pretty boy, but one who can actually act. Let’s take a look at a few possible choices.
Kevin McKidd – A Scottish-born actor, McKidd has had a number of television roles in the past few years, most notably in Rome, Grey’s Anatomy and Journeyman. He is a talented actor and has a decent enough look for Jaime, although he is a little on the older side. His availability is a question mark as his current role in Grey’s Anatomy may cause a scheduling conflict. In addition, he is in talks to star as Thor in the upcoming movie adaptation based on the comic book.
Neil Jackson – Scheduling shouldn’t be a problem for Jackson, IMDb only has two projects listed as in production for him and both appear to have already completed filming. An English-actor, Jackson is most known for his roles in Alexander and Quantum of Solace. As far as TV experience he has had a number of guest roles in series such as CSI, Cold Case and How I Met Your Mother. He also starred in the short lived Blade: The Series. I can’t speak to his acting ability, but I think he has the perfect look for Jaime. But looks alone won’t land him the part.
Charlie Hunnam – The youngest actor on this list, he is probably most close to the age Jaime is supposed to be in the books. Hunnam has a decent list of credits, including roles in Children of Men and Cold Mountain. He also starred in the Judd Apatow created TV series, Undeclared, and is currently starring in Sons of Anarchy. I think he is the perfect package of age, looks and talent. Unfortunately his role in Anarchy may exclude him from the running.
Laurence Penry-Jones – A relative unknown compared to the others on this list, he is not however without experience. He starred in the BBC series Doctors and also has done extensive theater work. His brother, Rupert, has been thrown around as a possible candidate for Jaime, but I think he is a better fit for the role. He is younger and much better-looking. And the fact that he is pretty much unknown probably increases his chances.
Whomever they decide to cast needs to have a lot of range. Jaime is one of the most interesting characters in the series and it will be interesting to see who they cast and how he plays him. The role of Jaime, I think, lends itself to casting an unknown. Someone who has the talent but isn’t a familiar face. Someone who can just inhabit the role and be Jaime Lannister, The Kingslayer.
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