Casting Bronn
With the first season getting the green light, now I can do these casting speculation posts with the knowledge that we will eventually get to see these roles filled. With the exception of Sam, Littlefinger, and Tywin (I suppose Varys as well) the remaining roles yet to be cast are relatively minor. Which means the chance of them getting well-known actors in those roles is slim. Unless there is a minor character that is a borderline cameo but would be fun for an established actor to play. Someone like, say, Bronn. Let’s take a look at some popular fan suggestions for the role of the sardonic sellsword.
James Purefoy – Purefoy has been talked about in Game of Thrones casting discussions since the series was first announced. Most likely due to his role as Marc Antony in HBO’s Rome. He can be seen more recently in the Brit action thriller Solomon Kane. He has got the kind of look and coolly confident attitude you would want in a potential Bronn. Plus his role in Rome means he has been cast by Nina Gold before. A possible issue might be the planned filming of a Rome feature film which may get in the way of shooting for Thrones. Though Bronn’s role is small enough that they may be able to fit it in.
Dominic West – Like Purefoy, West is also a veteran of an HBO production, in this case The Wire, and his name has come up before in Thrones casting discussions. In addition to his role as Det. McNulty on The Wire, West is best known for his role in 300, where he ended up molesting Cersei (Lena Headey). Something I’m sure Bronn wouldn’t mind doing himself. His schedule doesn’t look too packed and he certainly seems to like playing the scoundrel. Another reason West might get the role? He was cast by Nina Gold before in The Devil’s Whore.
Garrett Dillahunt – Despite being an American, Dillahunt seems like he would have a better shot than most Yanks at landing a role in Game of Thrones. One, because he is an HBO fixture, starring in Deadwood and John From Cincinatti. And two, he is reportedly a huge fan of the books and has sought a part in the show. Bronn might be a good fit for him since he wouldn’t need to stay in Northern Ireland for 30 weeks of filming straight. Of course, HBO has shown an unwillingness to cast American actors with only two exceptions (down to just Dinklage and Momoa now).
Richard Armitage – Because of his height (he’s listed as 6’2″) Armitage is a name that came up as a possible Hound, a role that eventually went to Scot Rory McCann. He’s essentially an unknown in the States but those across the pond might recognize him from BBC’s Robin Hood and Spooks. I love his look. I’ve never had a clear mental image of Bronn in my head, but Armitage seems to encompass everything you would want in a potential Bronn. He could become Bronn, in a way these three other more well-known actors could not. And with Robin Hood canceled and his role in Spooks at an end, this could be a great next step for his career.
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