Warning: The following text contains spoilers for episode three of Secret Invasion. Secret Invasion has undoubtedly brought some shocking moments, but the latest episode of the Disney Plus series may have gone too far. Fans were ecstatic about Emilia Clarke joining the MCU as Talos’ daughter G’iah, only to be devastated by her apparent death and quick exit from the franchise in episode three. This has led to concerns about Marvel’s treatment of Game of Thrones actors, as they have often been given short shrift in the past. It’s an audacious claim, but Marvel may have treated GoT stars even worse than season eight did.
While we hope that Emilia Clarke doesn’t join this unfortunate group, let’s take a look at ten Game of Thrones actors who deserved better treatment from Marvel.
1. Richard E. Grant
Richard E. Grant’s portrayal of Classic Loki in episode five of Loki season one was a standout performance. However, it seems unlikely that he will return for season two after his heroic sacrifice. In contrast, he appeared in three episodes of Game of Thrones season six as the flamboyant actor Izembaro.
2. Rhys Ifans
Rhys Ifans’ Lizard in Spider-Man: No Way Home was overshadowed by other returning Sony stars. Both he and Thomas Haden Church’s Sandman were relegated to voice acting roles, with their characters remaining CGI throughout the movie. In contrast, Ifans had a more significant role as Otto Hightower in the Game of Thrones prequel, House of the Dragon.
3. Jessica Henwick
Jessica Henwick’s portrayal of Colleen Wing in the Iron Fist series was highly regarded, making it all the more disappointing when the character was abruptly written out of the Defenders Saga. At the end of Iron Fist season two, Colleen becomes the Iron Fist herself, but we have yet to see her in the franchise since then.
4. Hannah John-Kamen
Hannah John-Kamen’s character Ghost in Ant-Man and the Wasp quickly gained a cult following among fans. However, rumors suggest that she dropped out of 2024’s Thunderbolts during pre-production, potentially robbing us of her unique and sympathetic anti-villain with a special power-set. On Game of Thrones, she had the opportunity to portray Ornela in two appearances.
5. Iwan Rheon
Iwan Rheon, known for his role as Ramsay Bolton in Game of Thrones, was cast as the main antagonist in ABC’s Inhumans. Unfortunately, his character, Maximus, fell flat due to poor writing and the series was canceled after just eight episodes. Although Anson Mount reprised his role in Doctor Strange 2, the chances of Maximus making a comeback are slim.
6. Richard Madden
Richard Madden’s portrayal of Ikaris in Eternals drew comparisons to a brooding dark Superman figure. He was one of the most compelling characters in Chloe Zhao’s Marvel debut, yet he perished at the end of the film. In contrast, it took three seasons for his Game of Thrones character, Robb Stark, to meet his demise.
7. Kit Harington
Kit Harington joined the MCU in Eternals as Dane Whitman, a rival for Sersi’s affections. While his character survived, rumors suggest that he may be cut from Blade due to the film’s production troubles. With the uncertain future of the Eternals franchise, it seems that Dane may fall short of the legacy of Harington’s iconic Game of Thrones character, Jon Snow.
8. Peter Dinklage
Marvel’s decision to cast Peter Dinklage as Eitri in Avengers: Infinity War was a no-brainer. Although his portrayal of the giant dwarf was hammy, it was a delight to see him alongside a raccoon and a tree. Unfortunately, Eitri’s Marvel fame was short-lived, and he has not returned since. It’s worth noting that Dinklage filmed a cameo for Thor: Love and Thunder, but it was ultimately left on the cutting room floor.
9. Natalie Dormer
Natalie Dormer, known for her role as Margaery Tyrell in Game of Thrones, appeared in Captain America: The First Avenger as Private Lorraine. Despite her humorous and memorable contribution to the film, her character was inconsequential. Fans had hoped to see Dormer return as Peggy’s nemesis in Agent Carter, but the opportunity was wasted.
10. Lena Headey
Lena Headey, who portrayed Cersei Lannister in Game of Thrones, was set to appear in Thor: Love and Thunder. However, her role was ultimately cut from the final film. Following this incident, Headey became embroiled in a lawsuit over unpaid commission fees with her former talent agency. It’s unlikely that she will be eager to return to the MCU after such a negative experience.
In conclusion, Marvel has not always treated Game of Thrones actors as well as they deserved. While we hope for better treatment for Emilia Clarke’s character, let’s remember the other talented performers who have been let down by the MCU.
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Khushi Patel is a science fiction author who lives in Austin, Texas. She has published three novels, and her work has been praised for its originality and imagination. Khushi is a graduate of Rice University, and she has worked as a software engineer. She is a member of the Science Fiction Writers of America, and her books have been nominated for several awards.
