‘Game of Thrones‘ proved to be the breakthrough show for many actors. Being one of the most celebrated fantasy TV series, ‘Game of Thrones‘ helped its actors gain heavy recognition. It was a phenomenal start for the ones who kickstarted their career with the show. But the spotlight has its own bad sides.
Maisie Williams, the British actress who shot to fame as Arya Stark in the HBO series, recently opened up about the personal challenges she faced during her early years in the spotlight. Despite achieving worldwide fame and financial success with the iconic role, Williams said it has its own downsides.
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“It Brought Me A Lot Of Discomfort”: Maisie Williams Recalls The Pressure She Faced Playing Arya Stark
Speaking during an interview with The Times of London, Williams said that her role as Arya Stark on ‘Game of Thrones‘ took a toll on her mental well-being as a young person. Cast as Arya at the tender age of 12 after beating out 300 other girls for the role, Williams talked about the overwhelming pressure she felt.
“I was so lost for so long, and I knew that I was, and when I couldn’t pin down what I felt my identity was within that, it brought me a lot of discomfort. Now I feel a lot more comfortable in my own skin. It’s hard to even put myself back there and talk about how tough it was just because I think it’s done,” she said.
Recalling her time on the ‘Game of Thrones’ set, Williams said she gained a great learning experience by observing her more seasoned colleagues. She singled out Charles Dance, who portrayed Tywin Lannister, as someone she admired. “Charles Dance was a standout for Game of Thrones. I admired watching him rehearse, and the things that he and the director talked about,” Maisie said.
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“At Least They Could Text Me Or Call Me”: Maisie Williams Wants To Help Other Young Actors Like Herself
Williams has been a part of quite a few projects after her role in ‘Game of Thrones‘. She is currently delving into a new role as Catherine Dior, the sister of the famed fashion designer and a member of the French resistance, in the AppleTV+ series ‘The New Look’.
Beyond acting, she has also ventured into producing with her own production company. a passion for creating original content rather than adapting existing intellectual properties. The actress-producer says she is intent on bringing original content to the screen, rather than adapting intellectual property from video games and products.
Williams also aims to support and guide other young actors navigating the challenges of sudden fame. “I really dig within myself to try and bring out something that I feel would be really useful. I’ve no idea if I ever have, but I know that at least they could text me or call me,” she said.
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