Game of Thrones's impact: fan interactions and harassment
The popularity of the HBO series Game Of Thrones affected viewers as well as actors, going much beyond its running time. The compelling narratives, nuanced characters, and unexpected turns of the show set off strong emotions in some viewers who took their passion to very extreme levels.
Actor on Fan Reactions Ramsay Bolton
Recently in an interview with CBR, Iwan Rheon—who played the infamous Ramsay Bolton in Game of Thrones—discussed his interactions with viewers. Rheon discovered that most viewers understood the difference between the actor and the character, despite their brutal and villainous nature, which produced generally good interactions.
Although Rheon occasionally gets negative comments, he says it's "tongue in cheek" and thinks those who really believe he is Ramsay would probably avoid him entirely.
The Reality of Taking On a Villain in Game of Thrones
Rheon acknowledged, "It's a risky business," noting viewers' possible strong reactions. For some, the line separating fiction from reality blurs and results in negative effects for performers, particularly those playing hated characters.
Actors in Game Of Thrones Battling Abuse
Rheon was lucky to avoid significant conflict, but other Game of Thrones stars have been harassed because of their roles. Following strong online attacks, Faye Marsay, Arya Stark's rival, the Waif, claimed being driven off social media. She still remembers the negative criticism she got for her performance of the villain even after her great performance in the praised show Andor.
Lena Headey, who portrayed the multifarious and contentious Cersei Lannister, also related odd events. She revealed on The Late Late Show in 2016 that a nurse harassed her following Cersei's walk of atonement scene, trying to help her breastfeed and repeating the notorious line "Shame." She told the story humoristically, but it emphasizes the possibility for viewers to overreach show-related concerns.
Young performers were not exempt either. Just 15 years old, Brenock O'Connor, who portrayed the Night's Watch recruit Olly, was harassed and subjected to death threats following Jon Snow's betrayal. He came to see the negative comments as evidence of his acting ability. Though he claims it was unrelated, Jack Gleeson, who portrayed King Joffrey Baratheon, is said to have left acting because of harassment.
The Cultural Phenomenon of Game of Thrones
Inspired by George R. R. Martin's fantasy novel series "A Song of Ice and Fire," Game of Thrones became a cultural phenomenon enthralling viewers all around with its rich story, nuanced characters, and startling turns. The popularity of the show is clear from its record HBO viewing as well as from its many accolades—38 Primetime Emmy Awards among other things.
The complex story of the show centers on the struggles for control over the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros, so stressing the conflicts between noble houses and the approaching threat of old evil. Lead by Jon Snow, the Night's Watch confronts the horrors of the north among the anarchy, reminding viewers of the threats existing outside their familiar planet.
Unquestionably, Game of Thrones has changed its actors and viewers. The ongoing popularity of the show and the intensity of the fan responses highlight its cultural value. Even if the show is ending, its legacy shapes the entertainment business as well as our interaction with fictional stories.
