Pacific Rim Star Charlie Hunnam Came Mighty Close to Playing One of the Greatest Targaryens in Game of Thrones
Sons of Anarchy and Pacific Rim fame actor Charlie Hunnam needs no introduction. His filmography spans over 20 years with diverse movies and TV shows that highlight his impeccable talent. A decorated addition to this massive list of works could have been the hit HBO show Game of Thrones. Hunnam was approached by the blockbuster series’ creators and offered an important role in the story.
What Role Was Charlie Hunnam Offered In Game of Thrones?
The British actor Charlie Hunnam was offered the role of Jon Snow’s real father Rhaegar Targaryen in the HBO show Game of Thrones. Snow is one of the primary characters in the massively popular show that also spanned a spin-off titled House of the Dragon. The revelation of Snow being a Targaryen is a major turning point in the Game of Thrones plot. Had Hunnam accepted the role of Rhaegar, he would have brought a new gravitas to the role and even paved the way to a larger role in the spin-off outlining the legacy of the Targaryen dynasty.
While he was unable to take up the role due to scheduling conflicts, Hunnam revealed that he is interested in the world of the enchanting world of the show and would love to have a cameo in the future. In a conversation with Sun Online, Charlie Hunnam expressed,
“I would love to do a Game of Thrones cameo, they offered me a cameo on that show a little while ago but I was shooting something else so I wasn’t able to do it but maybe in the future, who knows.”
Hunnam will be seen next in Zack Snyder’s Rebel Moon as Kai, premiering on Netflix on December 22, 2023.
Other Actors Who Turned Down A Role In Game of Thrones
The successful HBO series Game of Thrones spans an ever-growing fanbase even years after its finale aired. Newer generations keep finding the show, thanks to OTT platforms and fall in love with the fictional world where dragons are real and one crown rules all. The show’s success is largely attributed to the engaging story and the actors who brought the roles to life on screen. However, the show could have turned out differently had any actors been cast.
Nicholas Hoult initially auditioned for the role of Jon Snow which eventually went to Kit Harrington. The Tudos fame actress Tamzin Merchant was the first choice to play Daenerys Targaryen, but now we cannot imagine the show without Emilia Clarke’s brilliant portrayal. Sam Claflin, who also starred in the hit movie Me Before You, auditioned for the roles of Jon Snow and Viserys Targaryen.