Game of Thrones became a cult series, but not all actors were satisfied with how their characters' stories ended. Several stars openly expressed their disappointment, particularly regarding how their roles were 'killed off' by the creators. Let's take a look at which actors were unhappy and why.
Ian McElhinney: Ser Barristan’s Unexpected Death
Ian McElhinney, who portrayed the legendary knight Ser Barristan Selmy, was among those who openly voiced their dissatisfaction. His character, known for his honor and loyalty, was killed off in Season 5 while fighting a group of insurgents from the Sons of the Harpy in Meereen.
In an interview at MCM London Comic Con, the actor admitted that he was not only disappointed by the death itself but also by how he found out about it. McElhinney only learned about his character’s fate when he saw the shooting schedule.
"I was a bit disappointed. It wouldn’t have changed anything, but at the very least, out of courtesy, I feel like I should have been informed in advance. I was sad because I enjoyed the role and hoped that my character would get more development. I even assumed I would make it to Season 6. Clearly, I shouldn’t have thought that. What’s done is done," he shared.
McElhinney also noted that in George R.R. Martin’s books, Barristan plays a key role after Daenerys leaves Meereen, but this storyline was not adapted in the series.
Conleth Hill: Varys’ Wasted Potential
Conleth Hill, who played Varys, also expressed his disappointment. His character, known for his cunning and political maneuvering, was burned alive by Daenerys’ dragon in the final season. Hill admitted that he was 'inconsolable' after learning about Varys’ fate.
"Up until the last two seasons, I had no complaints. But in the finale, I felt disappointed because Varys stopped being the all-knowing character he once was. I think the writers wanted to end the story one way, while HBO wanted it another way. In my opinion, the final season was too rushed. I was in despair, but I’ve come to terms with it now," he said in an interview with The Times UK.
Like many fans, Hill believes that reducing the final season to six episodes deprived the plot of depth and logic.
Other Actors: Unhappy but Less Vocal
While McElhinney and Hill were the most outspoken, other actors also expressed their disappointment with the later seasons, albeit more subtly. Many, including Lena Headey (Cersei) and Kit Harington (Jon Snow), later hinted that they were unhappy with how their characters' journeys ended.
Game of Thrones left behind not only legendary moments but also a bitter aftertaste for some of its actors. Their frustration was not just about how their characters met their end but also about how the creators handled the story’s conclusion.
For viewers, this serves as a reminder that even the most successful projects can leave lingering questions and dissatisfaction. But perhaps these debates and discussions are precisely what make Game of Thrones such an unforgettable series.
