Although Kit Harington attracted all eyes on him with his prolific performance since the beginning of Game of Thrones, people can’t forget one House Stark character who set the tone for the show’s notorious unpredictability. It’s none other than the actor behind the role of Eddard “Ned” Stark, Sean Bean, who left quite an impression on the series and its fans.
Despite Sean Bean’s appearance in Game of Thrones being cut short with an untimely demise at the end of season one, his impact on the series extended far beyond his character’s arc. His influence was later seen in the performances of subsequent actors, including Paddy Considine who appeared as King Viserys in the prequel series House of the Dragon.
Sean Bean’s Lasting Impact on Game of Thrones Despite Limited Screen Time
From starring in the James Bond movie GoldenEye to making a career in historical fantasy films like The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001), Sean Bean landed the iconic role of Eddard “Ned” Stark in the HBO epic series Game of Thrones. Appearing as the Lord of Winterfell, Bean brought gravity and depth to the show.
However, despite his riveting performance as an honorable and just leader in the series, Sean Bean’s screen time was cut short with an untimely demise at the end of season one. While his character’s tragic fate sent shockwaves through the Seven Kingdoms, it also came as a reminder of the harsh realities of Westeros.
Finally, Ned Stark’s death helped set the tone of the show which clarified that even the noblest of characters can fall victim when it comes to the treacherous game of thrones. Therefore, the way Sean Bean’s character paved the way for the show’s narrative, despite his limited screen time, left an indelible mark on Game of Thrones and its fans.
Sean Bean’s Role as Eddard Stark Had Great Impact on Paddy Considine
Sean Bean’s performance as Eddard Stark not only captivated fans of the show but also influenced generations of actors, who appeared in the Game of Thrones prequel series House of the Dragon. With Bean’s impact extending beyond his character’s arc, the actor seemingly influenced Paddy Considine’s role as King Viserys.
In a round table interview via ScreenRant, Paddy Considine revealed his source of inspiration that helped him embody the character of Viserys. That’s when he openly credited Sean Bean’s performance as Ned Stark and how the actor’s legacy significantly influenced his character in House of the Dragon.
“It’s funny, really, because Ned Stark— what Sean [Bean] did — was sort of in my head when I played this, which is kind of weird. It was part of the makeup for me of Viserys. But he’s not a simple man, Viserys. And I think it’s the situations around him that create the complications for him. But I think he’s a deeply tragic man, in that he’s just trying to always do the right thing—and there’s almost a naivety to him.”
Almost drawing comparisons between Ned Stark and King Viserys, Paddy Considine elaborated on why he used Sean Bean and his Game of Thrones character as a source of inspiration. Well, whatever he did worked wonders because fans, and even George R.R. Martin, were truly impressed with Considine.
“I am vastly impressed by the show’s version of King Viserys, played by Paddy Considine, who gives the character a tragic majesty that my book Viserys never quite achieved. Kudos to Paddy, Ryan and his writers, and Miguel and the other directors.” Martin wrote in his blog.
In the end, it’s quite evident how Sean Bean’s brief but iconic role in Game of Thrones was way more crucial than it appeared. Although he was offered limited screen time, the actor left a lasting impact and a legacy for actors like Paddy Considine to follow in his footsteps.
Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon are available on Max.
